Interplay Learning, leader in VR training, launches academy

Interplay Learning, the education technology company, launched Interplay Academy, an “out-of-the-box” trades certificate program that helps education and workforce development organizations get learners job-ready.

Background: Interplay, born in 2016 and based in Austin, TX, provides online and virtual reality (VR) training for the skilled trades. 

“With Interplay Academy, novice learners can now get accessible, high-quality online trades education with a clear pathway to gain skills in their chosen field, earn industry certifications, and connect with employers,” the press release said.

• The programs span HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical, and include expert-led curriculums recognized by the Department of Labor.

Why it matters: As educators or contractors, hiring on-staff experts and building physical infrastructure for education/training is expensive.   

• Interplay lowers the cost burden by offering unlimited, hands-on training in a simulated environment.

“Interplay Academy’s Job-Ready Certificate Programs represent a significant leap forward in skilled trades education where there is a shortage of qualified skilled labor,” said Doug Donovan, Interplay’s CEO.

• “We believe these programs will play a pivotal role in developing a pipeline of talent for the skilled trades workforce of the future.”

Of note: “In addition to earning an Interplay Learning Job-Ready Certificate, learners enrolled in Interplay Academy’s programs can earn industry-recognized certifications, including NATE Ready-to-Work certification, OSHA 10 or 30 certifications, and EPA 608 certification, enhancing a graduate’s employability.”