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SickKids

Rafael Velasquez

Title:
Operations Manager, Simulation Program
Designations:
BCoSc, CHSOS

Biography

Rafael Velasquez is the Operations Manager for the SimKids Simulation Program at SickKids, where he leads technical operations and innovation in one of Canada’s most advanced paediatric simulation centres. With over a decade of experience in healthcare simulation, AV systems, and IT, Rafael specializes in bridging technology and medical education to create impactful learning experiences that improve patient safety and clinical outcomes.

He drives operations, technical troubleshooting, and mentorship within the Simulation Program—ensuring innovative, reliable, and effective training for medical professionals. He has a background that includes field service engineering at Laerdal Medical, IT leadership roles, and hands-on technical expertise, Rafael combines deep technical knowledge with a passion for education, collaboration, and continuous improvement. 

He finds it especially rewarding to apply his technical skills, leadership, and creativity to enhance the learner’s experience—work that directly contributes to better learning outcomes and, ultimately, improved patient care.

Education and experience

  • 2026–Present: Operations Manager, Simulation Program, SickKids, Toronto, ON, Canada
  • 2022–2025: Senior Simulation Specialist, Simulation Program, SickKids, Toronto, ON, Canada
  • 2018–2022: Simulation Specialist, Simulation Program, SickKids, Toronto, ON, Canada
  • 2015–2017: Field Service Engineer, Laerdal Medical, Toronto, ON, Canada
  • 2014–2015: Lead Technician, TigerDirect, Mississauga, ON, Canada
  • 2013–2014: Network Administrator Diploma (Honours), Information Technology, triOS College Business Technology Healthcare, Mississauga, ON, Canada
  • 2011–2012: Lead Computer Technician, Renewed Computer Technology, Welland, ON, Canada
  • 2010–2011: Cisco Networking Academy Diploma, Niagara College, ON, Canada
  • 2005–2010: Bachelor of Computer Science (ICAS Accredited Degree), Politécnico Colombiano Jaime Isaza Cadavid, Medellín, Colombia

Achievements

  • 2025: Learning Institute Award of Excellence, SickKids, Toronto, ON, Canada
  • 2021: Learning Institute Award of Excellence, SickKids, Toronto, ON, Canada
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