Methods: This boot camp was implemented during 5-hour sessions in August 2021, August 2022, and August 2023. The curriculum included a 45-minute introductory didactics session, 30-minute hands-on circuit demonstration, and four 30-minute small-group activity stations. To assess knowledge acquisition, pre- and posttests were administered; participants also completed a post–boot camp survey to evaluate their confidence and provide feedback. 

Results: Forty-nine participants completed the boot camp, including 18 critical care, four cardiology, 11 pediatric surgery, 12 cardiothoracic surgery, and four pediatric emergency medicine fellows. Pre- and posttests demonstrated significant improvement in knowledge of ECMO circuit components and pressures (56% vs. 76%, p < .001). All of our participants agreed or strongly agreed that participating in the boot camp increased their confidence in troubleshooting ECMO emergencies. The inclusion of fellows from various clinical disciplines, offering a rich diversity of perspectives, was particularly valued by participants. 

Discussion: Our results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of establishing a pediatric ECMO boot camp to train new surgical and medical fellows. The curriculum not only improved ECMO knowledge but also boosted learners’ confidence in managing ECMO-related challenges.