When International Training Institute (ITI) program administrator Michael Harris first encountered an Interplay VR demo, he saw the strong value hands-on training could offer to SMART members and apprentices. Joint Apprenticeship Training Committees (JATC) facilities vary dramatically in size, with some supporting as few as ten students and others supporting as many as 1,000.
Recruiting a younger generation of apprentices is an industry necessity, and hands-on learning and practice are essential to apprenticeships. The ability to visualize and troubleshoot complex scenarios is a challenge in smaller JATCs that lack training labs, but simulations offer a sophisticated answer that speaks to a generation of digital natives.
ITI partnered with Interplay Learning to deliver hands-on training to SMART apprentices and members at JATC locations nationwide, online through Interplay’s platform. Intending to attract a new generation of apprentices, the organization hoped the technology would change how the workforce thinks about hands-on training.
Smaller JATCs can now offer comprehensive training, giving their members and apprentices experience parallel to what they might receive in a service lab. They can also earn continuing education credits in 21 specialty areas. With Interplay’s suite of engagement and reporting tools, ITI can now more easily assess, train and manage their growing number of apprentices, all in one place. They can direct student learning paths, track progress, and exercise control over content.
Recruiters successfully attracted a new generation of digital-first apprentices by leveraging simulations and VR training, making apprenticeship programs more appealing to younger audiences. JATC locations were able to offer comprehensive technical, hands-on training in facilities where it was previously not possible, overcoming limitations due to space and resources.
The expanded Interplay Learning catalog provided a wider range of training options for SMART apprentices and members while giving instructors greater control to direct and oversee classes, manage student progress and customize learning paths. This approach established a new, measurable standard for defining job readiness, enhancing the overall effectiveness and reach of the apprenticeship programs.
The comprehensive course offerings that JATCs are now offering SMART members and apprentices through Interplay give them access to more opportunities and faster, more powerful learning tools. At the same time, ITI is endowed with a compelling recruiting tool and sophisticated custom training. JATCs of all sizes can provide hands-on learning opportunities that are unrestricted by their available physical resources. Instructors have more control in assigning learning paths and observing students’ progress and development, elevating the standards for the upcoming workforce.
