Dr. Blaine Oldham has been described as a jack-of-all-trades, with a background that includes college swim team conference winner, mechanical engineering degree recipient, and overseas service program participant. Put it all together and it makes perfect sense that Dr. Oldham is now set to become an emergency medicine physician ready to save lives and make split-second decisions.

Blaine Oldham, M.D.

What this award means: This recognition encourages me to remain dedicated to my ongoing development and as a reminder of my commitment to serve the community, contribute to the evolving landscape of emergency medicine, and uphold the principles of compassion, excellence, and innovation in my career.

Mentor comment: Blaine was selected for the award based on his outstanding contributions to research and the community. He has utilized his biomedical engineering background in multiple projects, which has enabled him to graduate with a Distinction in Research. From his co-founding of the UT Southwestern Chess Club to his ministry work, Blaine epitomizes the jack-of-many-trades mindset of the emergency physician. – Mary C. McHugh, M.D., Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine and Clerkship Director

Background and family: The eldest of four siblings, I was born and raised in Austin, Texas. During college, I met and married my wife, who has been my unwavering pillar of support and love. Our journey was enriched further by the arrival of our son, who is nearly a year old and brings us immeasurable joy.

What led to your career path: From a young age I wanted to be a doctor, despite no immediate family ties to medicine. From high school onward, this guided my educational journey. During college, I stepped away from the academic realm for two years on a service mission in El Salvador. Immersing myself in a new culture, learning Spanish, and developing key interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills were invaluable experiences. During medical school, I quickly realized that I loved every specialty. My first rotation in the Emergency Department was a defining moment, however; I felt an immediate sense of belonging and a love for the quick-paced, critical decision-making that emergency medicine demands. This environment, and the caliber of people it attracts, solidified my choice.

College: I attended Brigham Young University, majoring in mechanical engineering with a minor in chemistry and additional premedical studies. I was a Division I athlete on the swim team, which became a Mountain Pacific Sports Federation Conference champion. Outside the pool, I dabbled in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, scuba diving, cycling, running, hiking, obstacle racing (Tough Mudder/Spartan), and rock climbing.

UTSW activities: I co-founded and helped lead both the UTSW Chess Club and the UTSW Board Game Club. Additionally, I was an active member of the Climbing Club.

Surprising fact: I’m a DIY enthusiast with dreams of setting up my own machine shop. Imagine a space filled with 3D printers, laser/waterjet cutters, mills/lathes, and the smell of fresh metal – that’s my idea of paradise.

Future plans: After residency, I hope to harness my diverse experiences and skills to improve patient care, whether in an academic or community hospital environment. I am committed to being a leader who constantly seeks out ways to enhance patient outcomes and experiences through innovation.

About the award: The award is presented to a medical student who demonstrates excellence in emergency medicine, with special dedication to Texans who need emergency care.