Avangrid, a provider of sustainable energy solutions, is integrating immersive virtual reality (VR) technology into its training programs for wind and solar technicians. The technology is being implemented at the company's National Training Center (NTC) in Sherman County, Oregon, to complement traditional hands-on training methods and prepare employees for complex real-world challenges.
The VR modules offer trainees the opportunity to become familiar with various machines and scenarios in a simulated environment, enabling them to gain practical knowledge and experience in a controlled and safe setting. The immersive training focuses on building familiarity with equipment and troubleshooting procedures, which are critical in renewable energy operations.
"At Avangrid, we are developing a highly trained and skilled workforce that is essential to the industry's growth and creating job opportunities in the communities we operate in. Our National Training Center marked a significant step forward in our abilities to equip technicians with the highest standards of safety and technical expertise," said Pedro Azagra, Avangrid CEO. "By investing in comprehensive training programs, we are not only enhancing the capabilities of our new hires but also empowering our existing workforce to excel in their roles."
The VR training complements physical, hands-on learning at the NTC, where technicians have access to industry-standard tools and equipment, including a 30-foot fall protection tower and a fully intact wind turbine nacelle (the top part of a wind turbine). These facilities allow trainees to practice maintenance and troubleshooting in a real-world environment, ensuring they gain confidence and competence before taking on field assignments.
Avangrid's adoption of VR training builds on its earlier work in leveraging virtual reality for workforce development. In 2019, the company began working with AR and VR training solutions provider VR Vision to create a "corporate learning metaverse" – a persistent virtual multiplayer simulation that has allowed trainers and trainees across the US to meet and learn about critical maintenance and safety procedures in a risk-free environment.
According to VR Vision, courses within this corporate metaverse focus on different technical learning modules concerning wind turbine maintenance and part replacement, as well as other modules, such as substation walkthroughs, confined space rescue, gas leak investigation and more. Data captured within the corporate learning metaverse also enables Avangrid to make data-driven decisions about individual technician preparedness for critical situations.
Located near many of Avangrid's 14 existing wind and solar facilities in Oregon, which collectively generate 1.6 GW of clean energy, the NTC represents the company's investment in workforce development and innovative training solutions. Recently, the second cohort of newly hired technicians graduated from the company's National Training Center, which was built earlier this year.
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