Ben Oliver spends his days running simulations. This March, he’ll step into one of his own.
Traveling to Miami in March, Ben Oliver, CUAA’s director of technology and simulation, has been invited to participate in an advanced training initiative with Gaumard, one of the world’s leading medical simulation manufacturers. He will engage in advanced problem-solving using high-fidelity simulators designed for patients of all ages. For Oliver, this opportunity represents more than professional development. It is a chance to strengthen the simulation experience for students at Concordia University Ann Arbor and Concordia University Wisconsin.
“It’s an opportunity to deepen my understanding of these systems at a higher level,” Oliver said. “Any time I can learn directly from the engineers and designers who build these simulators, it strengthens what we’re able to do for our students.”
Let the simulation begin
The training in Florida will focus on advanced concepts, including ventilation systems, pneumatics and connectivity between devices — areas that are critical to keeping complex simulation environments running effectively across both campuses.
“Connectivity is one of the biggest challenges,” he said. “Simulators are networked systems. The components must communicate properly.”
The sessions will also provide exposure to emerging developments in artificial intelligence integration. While AI-enabled mannequins are not yet part of Concordia’s current inventory, he is closely watching the field’s direction.
“With AI, a simulator could analyze student responses in real time and adapt accordingly,” he said. “That level of interactivity is coming. It could change education.”
Creating a safe learning environment
Across both campuses, more than 20 high-fidelity simulators breathe, speak, produce lung sounds and replicate complex clinical scenarios — from cardiac emergencies to childbirth simulations. When something fails, he diagnoses leaks, replaces internal components and, at times, fully dismantles units to extend their lifespan.
“I’ve completely dismantled simulators to replace small internal components,” he said. “It’s similar to surgery in some ways.”
The invitation to train in Sarasota reflects a trusted relationship developed within a highly specialized field.
“Manufacturers know me,” he said. “If I need a specific part — even one they don’t typically sell — they’ll work with me. That trust relationship matters.”
Yet the technology itself is not the end goal. Simulation creates a safe environment for students to practice before caring for real patients.
“If a student administers the wrong medication or performs an incorrect procedure, the simulator records everything,” he said. “It’s a safe learning environment. When students gain confidence here, it ultimately benefits patients. That’s what matters.”
Called to innovate, anchored by faith
Oliver’s faith shapes how he approaches innovation and responsibility within this evolving technological environment.
“My faith guides how I approach innovation,” he said. “I believe advancements, including AI, exist within God’s knowledge and sovereignty. That perspective grounds me.”
At Concordia, where faith and learning are intentionally connected, that grounding informs how technology is implemented and why it is pursued in the first place.
“I love what I do,” he said. “I’ve been given many opportunities over the years, and I try to extend the life of our simulators as long as possible.”
In a field where the national lifespan of a simulator averages seven years, one unit he maintains is nearing 29.
The upcoming March training in Florida marks another step forward. For Oliver, it is an opportunity to sharpen his expertise, strengthen Concordia’s simulation programs and serve students across both campuses with excellence rooted in faith.
Interested in knowing more about CUAA’s Simulation Center or director, read “The Medical Simulation Wizard: CUAA Simulation Specialist.”
Want in?
Concordia University Ann Arbor is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.
Click here to view a full list of the programs.