Staff Spotlight: Brian O'Malley, Simulation Specialist Technician

Originally from Madison, Wisconsin, Brian O'Malley joined the College of Nursing’s team as a Simulation Specialist Technician in 2020. Since then, he’s become an integral part of the team providing a safe, equitable learning environment for SU students to learn through simulation.

Get to know more about O’Malley and what he enjoys most about his career in the simulation field.

Tell us a little about yourself, hobbies, passions, or other details you’d like to share?

"I am an identical twin who got bitten by the trail-running bug after moving to the Pacific Northwest from Madison, WI over three years ago. I've participated in a variety of races from trail marathons to ultra-marathons. If I'm not in the office, I'm usually prancing out and about in the Cascades. Fun fact: I've hiked Mt. Fuji... twice!"

What made you decide to pursue a career as a simulation specialist?

"I've always valued working in education. I was attracted to becoming a simulation specialist because it allows the opportunity for learners to express new ideas, concepts and experiment in a non-traditional classroom setting."

How long have you been in the field and what do you like best about it?

"I've worked in both the medical and nursing simulation fields for close to five years. I enjoy the intersection of education and "theater" aspects of the industry. I admire the shared educational passion our standardized patients (professional actors and actresses) bring to our simulations. I'm eager to utilize a variety of modalities (makeup, props, SPs, technology) to ensure our simulation environments provide the most productive spaces for learning and growth."

Tell us a little about your work at the CPL, what does your typical day look like?

"Planning for simulations, I review relevant materials, supplies and medications with faculty and set our simulation suites accordingly. During the simulation, I ensure all systems are functioning properly (simulators, audio/video streaming for observation) and then break down and setup for our next event. I've also been known to be the voice of a few of our simulators during simulation!

I’m very proud of my involvement earlier this year with the CPL team responsible for the renovation of our new Observation Room, allowing learners to have a fully dedicated, state-of-the-art space to view and debrief their simulation experiences."

What’s your favorite part of working with SU nursing students in your role?

"I highly value working with a wide variety of our SU faculty. It's incredible to witness the transfer of knowledge and experience between faculty and students during our simulations, particularly in the debriefing session. My favorite part is the mentorship our faculty provides to our SU nursing students. Each faculty provides their own clinical and content expertise with the shared ideal to provide a safe and equitable learning environment for our students to practice, make mistakes, learn, and become more effective nurses."

Anything else you would like to add?

"Go Hawks!"