Exploring XR’s Potential to Solve the Skilled Workforce Gap in Manufacturing and Construction
Nathan Pettyjohn, CEO of The Immerse Group and President of the VR/AR Association, is leading the charge in utilizing XR technology to address the looming skilled workforce gap in industries like manufacturing and construction. At this year’s Industrial IMMERSIVE Week, Pettyjohn discussed the critical role XR and AI technologies can play in training workers and enhancing operational efficiency.
With the retirement of baby boomers and the entry of millennials into the workforce, there is a significant shortfall in skilled workers, particularly in manufacturing, projected at 7.9 million workers by 2030. Pettyjohn emphasized the need for innovative tech solutions to tackle this issue and highlighted the potential of XR and AI technologies in bridging the skilled workforce gap.
Pettyjohn’s session explored the various applications of XR technology in different industries, including mixed reality for field maintenance, VR and AR products for upskilling and safety use cases, and digital twins for training and compliance. He provided examples of businesses achieving productivity gains and cost savings through XR technologies, showcasing the effectiveness of these technologies in enhancing operational efficiency and reducing errors.
In terms of training, Pettyjohn discussed the transformative potential of VR technology, citing research that showed improvements in employee confidence, engagement, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional methods. He highlighted case studies from industry leaders like Chevron, Walmart, UPS, and DHL, demonstrating the tangible benefits of VR training in reducing accidents and errors while enhancing order fulfillment.
However, Pettyjohn also emphasized the importance of factors like employee adoption, platform selection, and change management in successfully implementing XR technologies to address the skilled workforce gap. He stressed the need for a change management plan to encourage the workforce to embrace new technology and utilize it regularly to avoid potential failures.
Overall, Pettyjohn’s insights and examples underscore the significant impact XR technology can have in addressing the skilled workforce gap and improving operational efficiency across industries. As industries continue to evolve and face challenges in workforce development, XR technology offers a promising solution to bridge the gap and ensure a skilled workforce for the future.
