Where Classroom Learning Meets Real-World Practice
Step into the VHCC Simulation Lab—a state-of-the-art facility designed to mimic real clinical environments. Here, healthcare students transition from textbook theory to hands-on practice, gaining the critical thinking skills and confidence needed to excel in the workforce. Whether preparing for a routine procedure or a high-pressure medical emergency, our students train in an environment where it is safe to learn, practice, and succeed.
Founded in 2010 through a $1.9 million federal grant awarded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the Virginia Appalachian Tricollege Nursing Program established a state-of-the-art simulation laboratory at VHCC.
Officially opening in 2011 as the first facility of its kind in Southwest Virginia, the lab was built to elevate clinical training and directly address the growing demand for highly skilled healthcare professionals across our region.
While students continue hands-on clinical rotations in local hospitals, the Simulation Lab offers an independent, risk-free environment. Here, learners develop essential skills in clinical reasoning, teamwork, and safe patient care across realistic clinical scenarios. When not serving VHCC students, the facility supports regional healthcare employees with continuing education programs and welcomes community members and prospective students for guided tours.
Designed to mirror real-world clinical settings, the facility features cutting-edge medical simulation technology to support Nursing, EMS, and Allied Health programs.
- Replicated Clinical Environments: Dedicated patient care areas styled after Med-Surg, ICU, ER, Obstetrics, and Home Health settings, all fully equipped with active hospital-grade technology.
- High-Fidelity Manikins: Anatomically correct adult, pediatric, and trauma simulators that breathe, blink, display measurable pulses, and respond dynamically to medications.
- Control Rooms: Specialized spaces featuring one-way glass, allowing faculty to manage complex medical scenarios and monitor student decision-making in real time.
- Integrated AV Recording & Debriefing: Every room is outfitted with high-definition audio and video capture. Dedicated debriefing spaces allow teams to review scenario video playback, analyze performance, and refine patient care outcomes.
Our facility operates under the leadership of certified simulation educators dedicated to rigorous instructional standards:
- Bethaney Hilt, MSN, RN, CHSE — Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator
- Kayla Mullins, MSN, RN
Both leaders hold active memberships in the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH), the Virginia State Simulation Alliance (VASSA), and the International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning (INACSL). Additionally, both are recognized as INACSL Healthcare Simulation Standards of Best Practice™ Cornerstones Experts.
We welcome local high school career tracks, community organizations, and prospective students to tour our facility. Come see how the next generation of healthcare heroes is trained.
To schedule a group or individual tour, please contact Bethaney Hilt at bhilt@vhcc.edu.
Real-World Training for Future Healthcare Heroes
"My simulation participation provided me with the opportunity to obtain knowledge and experience that cannot be provided in the classroom. It also gives me an honest report of which skills need practice and improvement." — VHCC Student
Our students don't just watch—they do. By practicing in realistic environments, VHCC graduates enter the local workforce with superior clinical judgment and hands-on readiness.