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Background Mechanical ventilation (MV) management is an essential skill for pulmonary and critical care medicine (PCCM) fellows to master during training. The unprecedented emergence of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted the need for advanced operator competency in MV to improve patients’ outcomes. Objective We aimed to create a standardized case-based curriculum using a blended approach of high-fidelity simulation, rapid-cycle deliberate practice, video didactics, and hands-on small group sessions for rapid accumulation of knowledge and hands-on skills for PCCM fellows before caring for critically ill patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods The MV curriculum consisted of the following steps: 1 ) baseline written knowledge test with 15 multiple-choice questions covering MV, the latest evidence-based practices, and pathophysiology of COVID-19; 2 ) baseline confidence survey using a 5-point Likert scale; 3 ) a one-on-one session using a high-fidelity simulation manikin, a lung simulator, and a mechanical ventilator to test baseline competencies; 4 ) a structured debriefing tailored per fellow’s 50-point competency assessment checklist from the simulation using rapid-cycle deliberate practice; 5 ) video didactics; 6 ) a hands-on session in small groups for basic knobology, waveforms, and modes of MV; 7 ) a one-on-one simulation reassessment session; 8 ) a written knowledge posttest; and 9 ) a post-training confidence survey using a 5-point Likert scale. Results Eight PCCM fellows completed the training. The mean multiple-choice question score increased from 7.4 ± 2.9 to 10.4 ± 2.4 ( P < 0.05), and the simulation scores increased from 17.1 ± 4.4 to 30.8 ± 3.7 ( P < 0.05). Comparing the simulation reassessment to the baseline, fellows showed significant improvement ( P < 0.05) in assessing indications for MV; implementing rapid sequence intubation for patients with COVID-19; initiating MV and ventilator bundle per best practices; recognizing and managing mucous plugging, ventilator dyssynchrony, and evidence-based treatments for acute respiratory distress syndrome; and developing a care plan for proning. The post-training survey revealed improved learner confidence in all competencies. Conclusion This pilot MV curriculum using a blended approach was feasible and allowed PCCM fellows to significantly improve their knowledge and hands-on skills, allowing for the appropriate use of MV during the pandemic. Self-reported improvement scores further reinforced this. The emergent need for novice learners may again be necessary for future pandemic set...