VR headsets provide head-first exploration of career opportunities 

Chances are, you have probably by now experienced or have at least heard about virtual reality (VR) technology. This technology transports users into new environments, engaging our senses to explore new realms with just a headset. While often linked with gaming and entertainment, a lesser-known yet valuable application for VR technology lies in its potential for fostering workforce development.

In my role as executive director for Career TEAM in the Lincoln Trail region, I collaborate closely with the Kentucky Career Center - Lincoln Trail (KCC-LT) to deliver comprehensive services to both regional employers and job seekers. Our team includes myself and five career advisors stationed across the five Kentucky Career Center locations within the region. Recognizing the importance of efficiently connecting job seekers with local employers, we've recently found VR technology to be an invaluable tool in our efforts.

Working with KCC-LT, we are utilizing technology from Transfr VR, a company that is building classroom-to-career pathways for millions of workers via hands-on training using immersive technologies in partnership with schools, businesses and government entities. The VR headsets were purchased by the Lincoln Trail Workforce Development Board (LTWDB). 

Transfr VR provides users with immersive, hands-on experiences across a diverse range of career fields, such as health sciences, construction, IT, law/public safety, manufacturing, skilled trades, warehousing, hospitality and automotive sectors. What sets this VR technology apart is its continual software updates, reflecting emerging trends and high-demand career paths. For instance, upcoming additions include electric vehicle (EV) modules, scheduled to debut this spring. This development aligns with the impending establishment of the BlueOval SK Battery Park in Glendale, poised to supply batteries for future Ford and Lincoln electric vehicles. These new modules will prove highly advantageous for our local workforce, enhancing their readiness for evolving job opportunities in the region.

As part of KCC-LT’s Youth Program, we recently introduced the Transfr VR experience to eighth grade students at Bardstown Middle School. It became evident to me that our community's youth will particularly embrace Transfr VR, given their familiarity with technology from an early age. This tool holds the promise of bridging the gap between the uncertainty of future career paths and the familiarity of technology, providing a solid foundation for their future endeavors.

Additionally, the convenience of VR technology for career exploration is compelling for all users, not just our local youth. Instead of navigating uncertain career paths, individuals can gain valuable insights simply by donning the headset and controllers. Should they wish to delve deeper, we can offer more comprehensive training modules within their chosen career fields, further enhancing their knowledge and skills.

The visit to Bardstown Middle School initiated the first of our three pilot programs in the region. We also extended the service to youth-aged individuals (ages 18 to 24) under the care of Addiction Recovery Care (ARC), and our final pilot program will engage a group from BlueOval SK. We deliberately selected diverse pilot groups to gauge reception and response, aiming to identify the most suitable applications for Transfr VR. So far, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, demonstrating that this experience is inclusive and has widespread appeal. Upon completion of the final pilot program, VR services will be available upon request to any additional groups interested in participating.

My team and our partners view the Transfr VR application as a significant advancement for workforce development in the Lincoln Trail region. To maximize its impact, we aim to integrate Transfr VR across a spectrum of groups such as school systems, recovery centers and job fairs, while ensuring regular accessibility at the KCC-LT locations.

This VR technology offers users the chance to explore career paths before fully committing, facilitating more efficient connections between job seekers and compatible fields. By integrating the Transfr VR technology, we are essentially providing our communities with a new-age approach to the age-old process of establishing a career path.

To learn more about services provided by KCC-LT, visit ltcareercenter.org. To learn more about Transfr VR, visit transfrinc.com. 

Kristin Howard serves as Executive Director for Career TEAM in the Lincoln Trail region. She can be reached at 606-622-4470 or kristinhoward@careerteam.com.