UC Health and the U.S. Air Force have unveiled an expanded Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills (C-STARS) Simulation Center in Cincinnati, a state-of-the-art facility designed to advance trauma training, operational readiness, and medical research.
The newly expanded center spans 30,000 square feet and represents a $10 million investment to prepare Air Force medical teams to deliver lifesaving care in combat zones, humanitarian missions, and complex civilian emergencies. The project was developed in partnership with the 711th Human Performance Wing of the Air Force Research Laboratory.
The facility is designed to replicate the realities of modern trauma care, combining immersive simulation technologies with research infrastructure that supports operationally relevant medical innovation. It features a fully equipped command center, advanced education and training suites, dedicated research areas, and a virtual reality environment that allows teams to practice responding to high-stress medical scenarios.
Key capabilities include high-fidelity full-scale simulation technology, immersive virtual and augmented reality training environments, data-informed performance tools that support real-time clinical decision-making, and configurable spaces designed to replicate battlefield, transport, and hospital settings.
The center builds on more than two decades of collaboration between UC Health and the U.S. Air Force. Since its establishment in 2002, C-STARS Cincinnati has trained more than 5,000 Air Force medical professionals.
Air Force Critical Care Air Transport teams participate in the program to prepare to treat the most critically injured patients in austere, rapidly evolving environments. In addition to training, the expanded center will serve as a national hub for research on operational medical technologies, autonomous systems, and new care models.
Researchers and clinicians will use the facility to test and evaluate medical tools and treatment approaches under realistic operational conditions. Insights generated through this work are expected to help shape future medical doctrine and capabilities within the Department of the Air Force.
Through joint training, shared research, and advanced simulation capabilities, the center is intended to strengthen both military medical readiness and civilian emergency response systems.
KEY QUOTES
“With this state-of-the-art facility, we ensure our medics are prepared to meet the challenges of any environment. This partnership is setting a global standard for trauma training and medical research.”
Brig. Gen. Robert K. Bogart, Commander Of The 711th Human Performance Wing
“From expanding opportunities for cutting-edge training to researching new medical intervention techniques, every effort is driven by a single mission: saving lives. This facility ensures the men and women who serve are equipped to deliver expert medical care worldwide.”
Col. Ric Speakman, Commander Of The U.S. Air Force School Of Aerospace Medicine
“UC Health, in partnership with the U.S. Air Force, is setting the standard for readiness, response, and resilience through the C-STARS Simulation Center. Together, we’re ensuring the lessons learned here save lives — on the battlefield and at home.”
Col. Valerie Sams, MD, Director Of C-STARS Cincinnati, U.S. Air Force And Trauma Surgeon At UC Medical Center
“Every time we step into this simulation center, we’re reminded our research isn’t about equipment — it’s about saving lives. If our work helps medics bring one more service member home safely, every hour spent here is worth it.”
Jim Lehman, UC Medical Research Site Lead For The En Route Care Section Of AFRL’s Human Effectiveness Directorate
