New SimulationTraining Center Honors RT Dario Rodriguez

Recently, UC Health and the U.S. Air Force announced the grand opening of the expanded Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills (C-STARS) DARRIO Simulation Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. This new, state-of-the-art, 30,000-square-foot facility is designed to mirror the realities of modern trauma care. DARRIO stands for “dynamic and realistic research with immersive operations,” but it also honors respiratory care leader Chief Master Sergeant Dario Rodriguez, RRT, RPFT, FAARC, who was the first respiratory therapist at Cincinnati’s C-STARS and who later served as superintendent and helped lead the organization. Rodriguez passed away four years ago at the age of 56 from clear cell carcinoma.

“As we unveil the DARRIO Simulation Center, we honor the profound legacy of CMSgt (ret) Dario Rodriquez, after whom this innovative facility is named. Dario was a cornerstone of C-STARS Cincinnati’s history, transforming Critical Care Air Transport Teams and En Route Care through his groundbreaking teaching, simulation development, extensive research, and pivotal role as the Air Force Respiratory Care Practitioner Career Field Manager. A true leader, mentor, and educator, he inspired not only respiratory therapists but every healthcare professional fortunate enough to know him, fostering excellence and innovation in critical care. Through DARRIO, his enduring impact will continue to shape the future of medical training and lifesaving missions for generations to come,” said James Woods, CMSgt, USAF, RRT, AFMEDCOM SEL, Enlisted Corps Chief, Office of the Air Force Surgeon General.

Rodriquez was much revered for his expertise, especially in ventilator use during en route care. He served as a formal consultant for several organizations, including the USAF, the Army, the Marine Corps, the Defense Medical Standardization Board, the CDC, and the FDA. In these positions, he conducted extensive research, development, and evaluation of medical devices. He also participated in planning for the future of en route care, including unmanned vehicle extraction with NATO, the Israeli Defense Forces, and NASA. An ardent advocate for improving the care of the wounded, he served as principal investigator or co-principal investigator on 15 major research grants and authored more than 50 publications.

CMSgt Rodriquez began his career in respiratory care when he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and trained as a respiratory therapist. But he is probably best remembered by many for his role as one of the first members of the USAF’s elite Critical Care Air Transport Teams (CCATTs).