Simulation Manager at South Texas College

Recorded live at IMSH 2026, this episode of On Record features Ruben Torres, Simulation Manager at South Texas College, sharing how a deep background in AV and networking naturally evolved into leading simulation operations across nursing and paramedic training. Ruben walks through why video recording is essential to simulation—not as “gotcha” surveillance, but as a tool for reflective learning and stronger debriefs, where students can review decisions, identify improvements, and build confidence before stepping into real clinical environments.

Ruben also gets practical about what it takes to run a world-class simulation program: designing for realism (including keeping faculty physically removed so students feel truly “in it”), selecting and integrating the right technology components, and supporting faculty who may not be as comfortable with tech through structured training—especially at the start of each semester. He discusses how adopting the IVS VALT system improved access and consistency, enabling simulation recordings to be available across multiple campuses on the school network, and he outlines how South Texas College ladders simulation experiences through the nursing curriculum—from foundational skills to robust capstone scenarios. The conversation closes with Ruben’s passion for the mission behind it all: leveraging simulation and video to help develop future clinicians and reduce the risk of medical errors.