Recorded live at IMSH in San Antonio, this episode of On-Record features Ed “Duke” Stein, Senior AV Designer with NV5 Technology & Acoustics, who has spent 25 years designing technology for medical simulation spaces.

Duke walks through how simulation projects typically start—often with architects—then expand into a full “technology package” that can include AV, data, security, acoustics, and lighting. He emphasizes a “tell me a day in the life” approach: focusing first on what instructors and learners need to accomplish, then applying the right technology (rather than leading with specs like “4K cameras”).

The conversation also highlights key trends shaping simulation design, including AI for surfacing performance insights for debriefs and XR (VR/AR) integrations that blend virtual environments with high-fidelity rooms—along with the growing importance of capturing not just the simulation, but also learner body language and stress responses. Duke flags data networking as a major challenge, especially as AV-over-IP pushes massive bandwidth demands compared to typical compressed capture systems.

Finally, Duke shares how NV5 “future-proofs” long-timeline builds through delayed system packages—designing to today’s budget, but selecting final hardware/software as late as possible to avoid outdated gear and costly change orders. His closing advice: bring IT and end users into the conversation early so goals, constraints, and outcomes stay aligned from day one.

Episode Guest: Joe Kondras
Associate Director of Learning Environments, Texas Woman’s University

Joe Kondras is the Associate Director of Learning Environments at Texas Woman’s University, where he served for nearly two decades. With a background that bridges IT and higher education, Joe has been at the forefront of transforming traditional classrooms into dynamic learning environments across TWU’s three campuses. In this episode, Joe shares his journey from student life to AV leadership, his philosophy on technology adoption, and how video has become a vital tool in shaping student success—on campus and beyond.

Episode Guest: Caitlin McVey
Assistant Vice President, Memorial Hermann’s Institute for Nursing Excellence

Caitlin McVey is the Assistant Vice President at Memorial Hermann’s Institute for Nursing Excellence, where she leads efforts to strengthen the nursing workforce, elevate professional practice, and accelerate innovation at the bedside. A former neonatal intensive care nurse, Caitlin now works across teams to integrate new technologies—like video, simulation, and immersive learning tools—into education and clinical training. In this episode, she shares how Memorial Hermann leverages video for simulation, debriefing, and workflow improvement, and discusses her role in helping launch HEAL High School, a groundbreaking healthcare-focused school supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies.