Respiratory Blog

“We don’t rise to the level of our expectations ... we fall to the level of our training.”
I think about this often when teaching respiratory therapy students. My goal is never just to teach content but to help build habits and standards that hold up under pressure (fatigue, short staffing, tough patients). I want them to be able to perform safely, not just when things go well, but when they don’t.
I also hope they develop the kind of work ethic that keeps quality and teamwork in focus, even when no one’s watching. What we practice becomes who we are in difficult moments.
As I get older, I find myself valuing authenticity more...not as a fixed identity, but as a process of being honest with ourselves, even as we grow and change. People are not locked into their past values or beliefs, and that’s okay. But in this work, some foundations, like safety, humility, and respect, are worth training until they’re second nature.

*Attention Ontario Respiratory Therapists* If your year 2024 CRTO portfolio is due for review, the deadline is tonight!

It was a pleasant surprise to discover Dr. Brian Goldman's piece on Anaesthesia Assistants (AAs) featured on CBC. Thank you, Dr. Goldman, for highlighting the essential roles of Respiratory Therapists and AAs within the Canadian healthcare system. ❤️

www.cbc.ca

It's time to learn, reconnect with old colleagues and friends, and forge new connections!

The conference will feature a variety of talks, workshops, opportunities to engage with industry representatives, networking meetings, and social events.

If you happen to see me at the conference, please feel free to say hello! I’ll likely be attending a session, moderating a discussion, chatting with industry representatives, making new acquaintances, or refilling my coffee cup :D

No matter your field or the number of years you've been practicing, there’s a talk that’s just right for you!

Save on conference registration! Elevate your respiratory therapy expertise and connect with industry leaders. Don’t miss this May in Canada's Capital! 🇨🇦
Explore our dynamic program and secure your spot today! https://loom.ly/GjX3HDQ

I have known Karl for the last 10 years. He is genuinely a great person and exceptional respiratory therapist. Thanks for everything you do for the field of respiratory therapy. Congratulations Karl!

The respiratory therapy program is thrilled to announce that Karl Weiss, professor and simulation educator from the School of Health & Life Sciences, has been named a 2024 recipient of the Aubrey Hagar Distinguished Teaching Award! 🏆

Karl has been a cornerstone of Conestoga since 2007, bringing his expertise in respiratory therapy and simulation-based teaching to our students. His innovative methods and dedication have left a lasting impact on his students, the respiratory therapy program and the Conestoga College community. 🌟

In his roles at the college, Karl has been instrumental in developing the use of simulation as a teaching tool. He’s played an active role in program accreditation and curriculum design, and many of the resources he has designed have been used extensively throughout the School of Health & Life Sciences, the School of Community Services and beyond.

Students have praised Karl’s interpersonal abilities, with some alumni recalling his mentorship and lessons many years after graduating. He uses engaging and humorous methods to help students deal with the pressures of respiratory therapy training, and has developed gamification techniques to assist with learning.

Students have benefitted greatly from Karl’s practical and effective teaching approach, which draws upon his vast experience in the field.

We are so proud of you Karl! We look forward to celebrating your award at next week's convocation!

I love attending this conference as it inspires me! It is truly amazing to see all the driven people. It also gives me a chance to catch up with old friends and meet new ones.
Random facts: The first CSRT conference I attended was back in 2013 (Niagara Falls).

Ready to elevate your respiratory therapy expertise and connect with industry leaders? Don’t miss this May in Ottawa! Explore our dynamic program and secure your spot today! https://loom.ly/GjX3HDQ

Take a moment to register:

Register today for a CSRT Webinar! Artificial Intelligence in Respiratory Care with speaker Janice Brown, BSc, RRT
March 27, 2025, 12 PM Eastern
To register: https://loom.ly/WswKQQk

The world celebrates the important contributions and advancements women have made and continue to make in science. In recognition of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we are highlighting Michener's own Hasina Jaffer - her journey to healthcare, digital health and applied health sciences education.

https://michener.ca/a-lifelong-journey-into-healthcare/