Weber State University has unveiled the first ambulance simulator in the Intermountain West, providing emergency healthcare students with a high-fidelity training environment inside the Marriott Allied Health Building. The facility, a replica of a fully functioning Type III ambulance, allows students to practice medical responses under simulated high-stress conditions.
Addressing Training Gaps
The development of the simulator was driven by a need to provide more realism for students entering the field with limited prior experience. Jeffrey Grunow, associate professor of Emergency Healthcare and immediate past chair of the department, noted that the faculty, who are all street-accomplished paramedics, sought a way to bridge the gap between classroom theory and field reality. Grunow stated that building a simulator was the necessary solution to prepare students for the hectic nature of real-world ambulance responses, which often involve flashing lights, blaring sirens, and watching bystanders.
Funding for the project was provided by the Dr. Ezekiel R. Dumke College of Health Professions. This investment allowed the Department of Emergency Healthcare to transform a concept first envisioned by Grunow during an emergency medical services educator symposium into a permanent campus fixture. The department, which is currently celebrating its 40th year, remains Utah's first paramedic program.
Advanced Simulation Technology
The new facility features advanced technology designed to mimic the intensity of a rescue scene. It is the first simulator in the nation to include integrated sound and ventilation systems. Additionally, the setup includes a suction system for airway clearance practice and a simulated oxygen tank system that utilizes compressed air. To assist with post-training review, the simulator is equipped with a six-camera digital recording system, allowing students to watch their performance on a 50-inch flat screen monitor or via computer after class sessions.
West Valley City firefighter and paramedic Zach Hatch described the simulator as being as lifelike as possible. Hatch noted that the setup provides exactly what responders encounter on the street, emphasizing the necessity of repetitive practice to prepare for actual emergency scenarios.
Community and Interdisciplinary Use
The utility of the simulator extends beyond the Department of Emergency Healthcare. Grunow stated that the university values interdisciplinary relationships and intends for the facility to benefit students from other health professions. Furthermore, the simulator is intended to provide continuing education opportunities for local fire and emergency medical agencies.
Community partners have already expressed interest in the technology. Ogden firefighters have offered to participate in training exercises by acting as police officers, firefighters, or bystanders to help simulate the chaos and intensity of real rescue situations. The department also maintains a real PL Custom Type Three ambulance on campus to supplement the simulation experience.
Long-term Institutional Goals
The department's mission with the new technology is to train effective problem solvers. According to Grunow, the goal of providing more realistic training is to benefit students, the local community, and the patients who will receive care from professionals who are fully acclimated and prepared for any medical scenario.
While the current focus is on emergency healthcare, Weber State has a history of institutional innovation. According to the Fall 2020 edition of Wildcat Magazine, the university has previously focused on various community-driven initiatives, including efforts to protect the community during the COVID-19 pandemic and investments in specialized facilities like the Computer & Automotive Engineering Building.
Institutional Context
The Department of Emergency Healthcare continues to expand its role within the Weber State University ecosystem. As the university navigates various institutional shifts, such as the arrival of a new provost to guide the campus through crises, the focus on practical, high-tech healthcare training remains a priority for the College of Health Professions.
