Madison Reporter

Medics from the Wisconsin Air National Guard’s 115th Fighter Wing in Madison have begun participating in clinical training at UW Health, marking the first time members of this unit have taken part in such a program with the health system.

The collaboration offers medics hands-on opportunities to refresh their skills, validate competencies, and stay updated on clinical best practices. The agreement includes participation from various UW Health professionals, including those in nursing, Trauma and Life Support Center, emergency department, Burn and Wound Center, as well as allied health education and career pathways.

Bridgett Willey, director of allied health education and career pathways at UW Health, described the partnership as the largest training agreement between a military branch and a private employer in Wisconsin. “The training for different medical personnel will typically happen two days a month, starting September 12 and 13,” Willey said. “The first group UW Health will train are medics, and the goal is to extend that to technologists, technicians, advanced practice providers and pharmacists in the future,” she said.

Willey also noted that this partnership could lead to further collaboration between UW Health and the 115th Fighter Wing.

Master Sgt. David Dubuc of the 115th Medical Group - Detachment 1 explained that during drill weekends the focus is on maintaining medical readiness rather than routine patient care. “This training keeps our skills sharp, ensures we’re adaptable across various hospital roles, and provides valuable exposure to different clinical environments,” he said.

Dubuc pointed out that airmen have previously had limited chances for hospital-based training due to infrequent availability at active-duty hospitals. He stated that ongoing access through UW Health will help ensure preparedness for both local response needs and global missions.

UW Health will provide all medics from the 115th Fighter Wing with 40 hours of clinical training every other year. They will also gain access to advanced trauma life support and advanced burn life support courses.

“As both a nurse and a veteran, I understand the critical importance of readiness and clinical excellence in military medicine,” said Rudy Jackson, chief nurse executive at UW Health. “This partnership with the 115th Fighter Wing is more than a training agreement; it’s a shared commitment to ensuring our medics are equipped with the latest clinical skills and best practices. We’re proud and honored to support these service members in their mission.”

UW Health has also been recognized for its efforts supporting veterans’ transitions into civilian employment. In 2024 it was named a Vets Ready Employer by Wisconsin’s Department of Workforce Development Office of Veteran Employment Services. This annual award honors employers who demonstrate exceptional support for veterans and their families.