Ged Healy from Iqarus on How Extreme Medical Training Prepares Frontline Heroes

Welcome to a different kind of Trail Blazers episode, one where we go out into the field and delve into the world of advanced training.

We had the exciting opportunity to meet with Iqarus -  industry leaders in delivering high standards of medical care and internationally accredited medical training in the world’s most challenging operating environments.

This is the kind of training undertaken by media teams, police, fire and rescue teams, military personnel, and pre-hospital care providers. Join us as we explore the immersive training experiences that prepare brave individuals for the real-life challenges they face.

Johnny joined Ged Healy, Global Head of Training & Development, and the team at Iqarus’ unique training facility. Spanning an impressive 16,000 square feet, the purpose-built space is equipped to prepare trainees for any situation, by simulating a wide range of environments - from arctic rooms to woodland jungles and desert settings.

We will follow the team's journey, which began in the military, where it became clear that people revert to their training in high-pressure scenarios. This insight led to the creation of a training programme that places participants in hyper-realistic situations, complete with role-players and detailed injury makeup. Over the course of up to five days, trainees receive a mix of theory and hands-on experience, quickly immersing themselves in environments designed to replicate real-life challenges.

We'll discuss the various kit and equipment tailored for different situations, ensuring trainees are protected just as they would be in real scenarios. From managing severe haemorrhage (one of the leading causes of death), to navigating street settings filled with hostile crowd sounds, breaking glass, helicopters, sirens, and simulated riots, the training is both intense and comprehensive. We’ll hear about the full immersion experience, where immediate feedback helps participants improve their situational awareness and response.

Designed for anyone looking to boost their confidence and preparedness, this training helps individuals feel ready to step into different countries and potentially save lives. The transformation in confidence and skills is incredibly rewarding to witness.

We'll also explore the multi-casualty scenarios, complete with smoke machines and head torches, which make the training extremely realistic. There’s even training for sniffer dogs in kitchens, addressing issues such as drugs and human trafficking.

With 17 different environments and situations,  the narratives and details are meticulously crafted, so that multiple teams can train simultaneously. Even clergy and management teams, like those from oil companies, have come through for specialised training.

The facility has continually evolved, incorporating technological advancements, such as AI, and VR to enhance the training experience. Their virtual instructor-led training, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, now includes avatars delivering lessons in 82 different languages and dialects.

As we discuss their plans for the future, you'll hear about their commitment to learning, adapting to feedback, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. If one person can save a life after training here, they've done their job.

Stay tuned as we explore the incredible world of immersive training that prepares our frontline heroes for the toughest situations. And of course, see how Johnny stepped up to the challenge!