VR Training for Manufacturing

American manufacturing is growing faster than in decades, but a shortage of skilled laborers is stunting its full growth. The decline in trade school graduates over the past few decades has left a gaping hole in potential employees. Job openings remain unfulfilled as companies bend over backward to attract new talent to replace the current aging workforce.

These efforts, while noble, can quickly grow costly because of low labor retention and high turnover rates in the manufacturing industry. Adding in the fact that automation and robotics are replacing positions formerly held by humans, it is even more imperative that positions reserved for humans are filled by talented people.

How can manufacturing companies train new hires in cost-effective, engaging, and interesting ways that will encourage them to work longer in the industry? First, integrate VR training with traditional training—which is often conducted in classrooms or on the production line, taking senior employees away from their jobs. Virtual reality training provides manufacturers with the opportunity to simulate a production line environment before new laborers even hit the floor.

Virtual reality can train fresh hires or assess current employees on product assembly, hazard recognition, equipment handling, and more. Whichever way companies choose to utilize this technology, it holds the key to efficiency and future successes for manufacturers.