Ontario Tech University has received a high-fidelity simulation mannequin from Laerdal Medical Canada to enhance experiential, work-integrated learning and support career preparation in health-care simulation and education.

Simulation plays a key role in training doctors, nurses, first responders, respiratory therapists and other health-care professionals. As demand grows, so does the need for skilled specialists who can design and operate simulation environments. These roles can increasingly be filled by trained non-clinical professionals rather than front-line clinicians.

Laerdal’s gift will strengthen real-world training for health sciences students preparing for specialized roles in simulation-based health-care education and workforce development, areas of growing need across Canada. It also supports the university’s Tech with a Conscience campaign, which focuses on applying human-centred technology and innovation to improve lives.

“Access to advanced simulation technology allows students to build practical skills and confidence in realistic clinical environments,” says Dr. Adam Dubrowski, Canada Research Chair in Health-Care Simulation and Professor in Ontario Tech’s Faculty of Health Sciences. “More importantly, it allows us to train a new type of professional: simulation operations specialists, who can deliver high-quality simulation training at scale. This expands capacity in the system while allowing clinicians to focus on patient care.”

This approach reflects Ontario Tech’s commitment to learning re-imagined through experiential, work-integrated pathways and the thoughtful use of technology to strengthen health systems and improve outcomes.

Laerdal Medical Canada, a global leader in simulation technology, is also partnering with Ontario Tech to support student learning through guest lectures, technical workshops and experiential opportunities at Laerdal Medical. These connections give students exposure to current technologies and practices, strengthening career readiness and expanding professional networks.

“We believe simulation plays a critical role in improving health-care education and outcomes,” says Bruce Karatzoglou, Manager of Educational and Technical Services at Laerdal Medical Canada. “Our partnership with Ontario Tech gives students hands-on experience with advanced technologies while helping build a stronger, more resilient health-care workforce.”