UNMC Infectious Diseases Air Transport Training Facility will increase national infectious disease readiness
Construction is underway on the $17.4 million facility
The University of Nebraska Medical Center's new Infectious Diseases Air Transport (IDAT) Training Facility will be a first-of-its-kind education and simulation center that will strengthen the nation's readiness to respond to infectious disease threats.
Construction kicked off on September 4, 2026 for the facility, which will provide a highly specialized environment for training U.S. Air Force personnel and other healthcare professionals involved in the safe transport and care of patients with highly infectious diseases.
Designed by LEO A DALY, the facility supports UNMC's critical role in biodefense preparedness in a partnership between UNMC and the Air Force Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills program.
LEO A DALY has a long partnership with Nebraska health organizations in infectious disease preparedness, including the design of the internationally renowned biocontainment unit, a partnership between UNMC and Nebraska Medicine.
Located on the UNMC campus in Omaha, the IDAT facility will bring together classrooms, simulation spaces, near-patient care training environments, and operational support areas under one roof. The flexible design allows spaces to adapt as training needs evolve, supporting future conversion of classrooms, offices, and simulator areas while maximizing long-term value for the institution. Advanced digital controls will enable instructors to recreate a range of real-world scenarios, from routine patient transport conditions to complex emergency situations requiring low-light or blackout environments. The project requires close collaboration among UNMC, the U.S. Air Force, and the design and construction team to meet stringent operational requirements while maintaining an accelerated delivery schedule.
