

WEBINAR
The Real Sim Center, Tucson
Inside ASTEC at the University of Arizona Health Sciences.
Explore how ASTEC transformed healthcare education through innovation, flexibility, and LearningSpace integration.
In the debut episode of The Real Sim Center webinar series, we go behind the scenes at the Arizona Simulation Technology and Education Center (ASTEC) at the University of Arizona Health Sciences. Dr. David Biffar and Lucas Grijalva share ASTEC’s journey from a one-room lab to a 33,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art simulation center supporting more than 80 unique learner groups.
This webinar offers practical insights into how ASTEC designed a flexible, future-ready facility—centered on centralized control room architecture, data-informed growth strategies, and hands-off simulation experiences that improve learner outcomes. From overcoming AV challenges to expanding community outreach, the discussion dives into the real-world decisions that shape successful sim center operations.

Key Takeaways
- How ASTEC uses a centralized control room and LearningSpace to create a hands-off, immersive learner experience
- The importance of needs-based design in simulation center development
- Why modular spaces and adaptable tech infrastructure are essential for future-proofing simulation programs
- How ASTEC supports over 28,000 learner contact hours annually across diverse disciplines
- Insights into data-driven growth strategies, including robust utilization tracking and ROI analysis
- The center’s vision for community outreach, rural training expansion, and ber hospital integration
- Lessons learned about IT collaboration, design planning, and long-term tech sustainability
What did you find most valuable about The Real Sim Center, Tucson?
Hearing from a successful simulation center on their development, challenges and goals. Our program is in the beginning phase so this is encouraging to hear the steps they utilize to get to where they are at now.
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Speakers

Melissa Lowther • Solution Sales Consultant
Melissa is a dedicated Solution Sales Consultant at Elevate Healthcare, specializing in the design and implementation of AV and center management system software. With over 12 years of experience in the simulation field, Melissa is also a passionate Simulation Operations Specialist. She has expertly managed operations for pre-licensure nursing and medical students, in-situ programs, and continuing education for licensed hospital staff.
Melissa is committed to hands-on operations specialist activities, continually seeking opportunities to apply her expertise. She earned the Certified Healthcare Simulation Operations Specialist (CHSOS) designation in 2017, advanced to CHSOS – Advanced in 2022, was inducted into the SSH Academy of Fellows at IMSH 2023, and was honored as the first-ever Industry Person of the Year at IMSH 2025.