On September 25, healthcare educators, simulation professionals, clinicians, and leaders gathered at the Utah Simulation Coalition Fall Conference under the theme, "It Is Possible! Taking on the Challenges and Opportunities in Simulation."
Hosted for the second consecutive year at the HCA Healthcare Center for Clinical Advancement in Draper, the conference featured presentations on improving moderate sedation competency through simulation, building healthcare stress capacity, integrating virtual reality into learning environments, navigating the accreditation journey, and using in situ simulation to strengthen patient safety. Across sessions, speakers shared practical approaches to building competence, confidence, and meaningful learning experiences.
The day brought together professionals from academic and practice settings to exchange ideas, explore emerging trends, and advance simulation-based education.
Learning From One Another
One of the simulation community's greatest strengths is its willingness to share experiences, challenges, and successes. Throughout the conference, attendees exchanged practical ideas and strategies applicable across academic and healthcare settings.
A highlight of the day was Accreditation is Possible: A 2026 Roadmap, presented by Teresa Roumonada ( St. Luke's Health System ) and Tracee Chapman, DNP, RN, CEN, SANE-A, CHSE ( Boise State University ). We extend special appreciation to Teresa and Tracee for traveling from Boise, Idaho, to share their accreditation journey, lessons learned, and expertise. Their presentation provided valuable insights and encouragement for organizations pursuing excellence in simulation programs.
Looking Ahead
Participant feedback reflected strong engagement with the day's content and a desire for future sessions focused on AI and virtual reality, simulation design and evaluation, competency-based education, and advanced debriefing techniques.
A Community Effort
The success of this conference was made possible through the collaboration and generosity of many individuals and organizations.
Thank you to all presenters who generously shared their expertise, experiences, and practical approaches to advancing simulation-based education.
The Utah Simulation Coalition extends sincere appreciation to Accredited Provider University of Utah Health for providing Nursing Continuing Professional Development (NCPD) contact hours for conference participants. Through their support as an accredited provider, 30 attendees received NCPD certificates that contribute to ongoing professional development and certification goals.
Special thanks to HCA Healthcare Center for Clinical Advancement for graciously hosting the conference for the second consecutive year and for their continued commitment to supporting healthcare education, simulation, and professional development.
We are also grateful to our industry partners whose participation allowed attendees to explore emerging technologies and innovative educational solutions. A special thank you to Education Management Solutions (EMS) for sponsoring breakfast and Laerdal Medical for sponsoring lunch, helping create opportunities for networking and collaboration throughout the day. Additional thanks to OrchestrateXR, SentinelU, AccessVR, and Elevate Healthcare for their continued support of the simulation community and engagement with conference attendees.
Most importantly, thank you to the attendees whose participation, thoughtful questions, and commitment to advancing simulation continue to strengthen healthcare education across Utah and beyond.
As reflected in this year's theme, It Is Possible, the future of simulation is being shaped through collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to improving patient care through exceptional learning experiences.
Read about the conference on LinkedIn.
Conference slides to come.