Metro Tech Unveils State-of-the-Art Nursing Simulation Lab

A newly constructed nursing simulation lab on Metro Tech’s Springlake Campus is providing cutting-edge training opportunities for healthcare students. Designed to replicate real-world clinical settings, the 9,787 sq. ft. facility offers hands-on experience with advanced medical training equipment in a controlled learning environment.

This project was made possible through funds provided by an American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant awarded through the Oklahoma Healthcare Workforce Training Commission (HWTC). Metro Tech was among the first ARPA-funded projects completed under the HWTC, finishing construction in September 2024.

“This new facility represents a major step forward in our commitment to workforce development in healthcare,” Metro Tech Superintendent and CEO Aaron Collins said. “We are incredibly grateful for the Oklahoma Healthcare Workforce Training Commission and their support through this grant. Their investment ensures we can continue training the next generation of skilled healthcare professionals.”

A Look Inside

The facility features specialized rooms designed to enhance student training in various healthcare scenarios, including:

• Simulation Lab – The 1,488 sq. ft. lab contains 10 hospital beds and nursing simulation manikins, stretchers, and hospital equipment. This space allows students to practice patient care scenarios. An adjacent observation room with audio and video equipment enables instructors to monitor and provide real-time feedback.
• Classrooms – Two dedicated spaces for instruction and debriefing after simulations.
• Surgical Lab—This space, at 1,035 sq. ft., has four operating room suites designed to train Surgical Technology students in real-world operating room procedures using advanced fixtures and tables.
• Skills Lab - Across the hall from the Simulation Lab is the 1,246 sq. ft. Skills Lab, which features 10 additional hospital beds and nursing simulation manikins with equipment. This space provides students with hands-on experience in fundamental nursing skills.

The Impact

The new facility allows the district to expand its healthcare programs to support more students each year. Notably, the Practical Nursing and Surgical Technology programs are expected to see more than 100 new graduates each year combined. Additional programs benefitting from the project include Metro Tech’s Nursing Services, Radiologic Technology, and Medical Assisting programs.

“The medical field is ever-evolving,” Metro Tech Lab Simulations and Skills Coordinator Josie Scott said. “By providing healthcare students with cutting-edge training resources, we empower them to enter their profession confidently, ready to tackle real-world challenges effectively.