Decoding XR Success: A Decade of Lessons With Fortune 500 Innovators

Industrial Immersive 2025: Houston, TX, March 3-4, Westin Memorial City

Join ForgeFX at the 7th Annual Industrial Immersive Event in Houston, TX!

We’re thrilled to announce that ForgeFX’s CEO and Co-Founder, Greg Meyers, will be taking the stage at the 7th Annual Industrial Immersive Event in Houston, TX!

Session Details:
📌 Title: "Decoding XR Success: A Decade of Lessons With Fortune 500 Innovators"
📍 Location: Westin Memorial City, Houston, TX
📅 Date: March 3, 2025
🔗 Learn more and register: Event Link

Why You Can’t Miss This Session

Greg Meyers has spent over a decade leading the charge in AR, VR, XR, and simulation-based training solutions for some of the world’s largest industrial enterprises. His expertise in delivering scalable, impactful immersive technology solutions has made ForgeFX a trusted partner for industry-leading Fortune 500 companies.

In this must-attend session, Greg will take a deep dive into:

✅ Key lessons learned from a decade of deploying XR solutions in high-stakes industries.
✅ What makes immersive technology succeed (and fail) at an enterprise scale.
✅ Real-world case studies showcasing the power of simulation-based training.

Whether you’re just beginning your XR journey or looking to refine your enterprise-scale immersive solutions, this session will provide actionable insights you won’t find anywhere else.

The Future of Industrial Immersive Technology

The Industrial Immersive Event has established itself as the premier gathering for XR, AI, and simulation professionals focused on revolutionizing training, operations, and workforce development. As industries continue to adopt immersive technologies, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. This conference brings together thought leaders, technologists, and innovators from energy, manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, and beyond.

By attending Greg’s session, you’ll gain a front-row seat to the latest advancements, challenges, and breakthroughs in extended reality and simulation-based training. ForgeFX’s expertise in immersive simulations has helped companies enhance workforce training, reduce operational risks, and improve overall efficiency—don’t miss this chance to learn how your organization can do the same.

Join the Conversation

The event runs from March 3-4, 2025, offering a packed agenda of insightful keynotes, hands-on demonstrations, and networking opportunities. Be sure to mark your calendar and attend Greg Meyers’ session to gain exclusive insights into the future of industrial XR solutions.

🔗 Reserve your spot today!

We look forward to seeing you in Houston this March! 

Future Forward: How Virtual & Mixed Reality Are Changing the Face of Training for the Trades, Healthcare, & Sports

 

While it’s still early days for the metaverse, technologies like virtual and mixed reality are already unlocking new possibilities to improve skills acquisition and training. From people looking to master a new trade to surgeons striving to reach the top of their game to injured athletes maintaining their skills and confidence on the road to recovery, immersive technologies have been helping people reach new heights and push the limits for years. Today, we’re spotlighting various ways people are tapping into the potential of VR and MR in their everyday lives.

For Shanna Ford, who grew up in a blue-collar household, the promise of a steady income offered by a career in the trades was ever present. And with her own artistic bent, she leaned toward welding.

“With welding, you can do anything,” she says. “I liked that it didn’t feel like it locked me in anywhere—if I wanted to go and do iron work and build huge structures, I could do that. And if I wanted to go to an auto shop, I could do that. Even Disneyland has their own welders. I could do art on the side or make furniture work for myself, make gates, these beautiful structures and creative sculptures. I could do anything.”

Of course, as with any trade, hours upon hours of practice are required to achieve a state of mastery—and it’s in that development of muscle memory where VR truly shines. 

“Everything used to be hands-on—everything was in the classroom,” 

Explains Alex Declair, who works for RSI—a StrataTech Education Group school, which tapped ForgeFX Simulations to develop a VR application based on their training and curriculum. 

“It was very traditional. And as soon as COVID hit, we were in a scramble, doing our best to take care of our students and get them to learn what they needed. But you can’t just send a welding machine home with a student to weld, you know. You have to have a lot of electricity, a lot of materials, consumables, and it just wasn't feasible. So our CEO Mary Kelly jumped on VR right away. We can give a Meta Quest headset to every one of our students, and they can take it home and learn how to weld.”

 

Read More: Meta Quest Blog: Future Forward: How Virtual & Mixed Reality Are Changing the Face of Training for the Trades, Healthcare, & Sports

https://www.meta.com/en-gb/blog/quest/metaverse-technologies-vr-mr-welding-trades-cataracts-surgery-sports-injury-physical-therapy

Laser Screed® Machine Training Simulator

ForgeFX Simulations is honored to be a simulator developer for Somero Enterprises, Inc., a company that specializes in the development, manufacturing, and distribution of concrete leveling equipment and technology for the construction industry. Their product range includes laser-guided and technologically advanced machinery designed to significantly improve the efficiency, precision, and quality of concrete flooring and surface finishing. ForgeFX Simulations works with Somero® to build a laser screed machine training simulator that empowers operators to conduct safe and cost-effective virtual training. A Laser Screed® machine is a specialized piece of equipment used in the construction industry for leveling large areas of concrete with high precision, that employs laser technology as a reference to control the position of the leveling head accurately during the concrete pouring process.

Somero Enterprises Laser Screed® Meta Quest Simulator by ForgeFX Simulations

Somero is passionate about the success of their customers, which is why they have created the Somero Concrete Institute, a comprehensive training facility dedicated to providing education on Somero’s products and offering unparalleled education and support. The S-22 EZ Laser Screed Training Simulator, developed by ForgeFX Simulations, will be the latest training experience to be offered by Somero, as they strive to deliver unparalleled learning opportunities through a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on training.

S-22EZ Advanced Laser Screed® Machine Simulator

ForgeFX Simulations works closely with Somero subject matter experts to develop their S-22EZ Advanced Laser Screed® Machine Simulator training program. This highly realistic, interactive, and engaging training simulation application significantly enhances the learning of operators by immersing them in a fully virtual environment that contains a detailed and accurate digital 3D replica of the S-22 Laser Screed® Machine. Taking advantage of Meta’s Quest mixed reality hardware, the simulator delivers users simulated physical controls, buttons, and feedback mechanisms that afford the ability to rapidly become familiar with the machine, learn and master the controls and maintenance techniques, and comprehend the fundamentals of using the equipment properly and effectively. Utilizing Meta Quest’s superior hand-tracking capabilities provides for a more fully immersive experience, where users have a greater sense of presence and agency.

Learn more: https://forgefx.com/simulation-projects/laser-screed-machine-training-simulator/

World of Concrete 2024

We are excited to invite you to the World of Concrete, happening from January 23 to 25, 2024, where an extraordinary experience awaits you in the form of ForgeFX's innovative Meta Quest-based training simulators! 

This year, we are proud to showcase our state-of-the-art virtual reality simulators, which will be featured at the exhibition spaces of two of our distinguished partners: 

JLG Industries: Prepare to immerse yourself in the access equipment industry with an unprecedented depth of experience. JLG Industries will be presenting the newest iteration of their renowned AccessReady Fusion XR™. This avant-garde training simulator, now powered by the Meta Quest VR platform, promises an unparalleled interactive experience. Be sure to visit us at Silver Lot, Booth #030944, to explore this cutting-edge technology firsthand. 

Somero Enterprises: Embrace the opportunity to master the art of leveling vast expanses of concrete with impeccable precision. Somero Enterprises introduces their latest Meta Quest-based VR operator training simulator, designed to elevate your skills in concrete leveling. Don't miss the chance to engage with this transformative technology. Join us at C Hall, Booth #C5302, for an insightful and hands-on experience. 

 This event promises to be a convergence of innovation and expertise, bringing together the latest in virtual reality training technology. Whether you are a professional in the field or an enthusiast for cutting-edge technological advancements, the World of Concrete 2024 is the perfect venue to witness the future of industry training tools. Please contact ForgeFX Simulations with any questions!

ForgeFX Simulations Unmanned Aerial System TeleOperation Training Simulator at I/ITSEC 2023

The Interservice / Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference (I/ITSEC) starts on Monday, and we couldn't be more excited to be exhibiting at booth #3464. In addition to many of our other products, we'll be demonstrating the unmanned aerial system teleoperation training simulator we developed for the JPEO for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense, in partnership with Teledyne FLIR and MRIGlobal.

https://youtu.be/Nz9qvzA8mzo?si=kxq4mARC_NQg7V0X

Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Training Simulator Delivered to JPEO-CBRND by ForgeFX Simulations and MRIGlobal

UAS simulator gives JPEO-CBRND the ability to deploy simulation-based training to operators to master the controls and process involved in operating a UAV.

This interactive 3D virtual training simulator is designed to instruct CBRND personnel in the remote operation of an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) from within a Nuclear Biological Chemical Reconnaissance Vehicle (NBCRV). Working directly with subject matter experts (SMEs) from the DoD and Teledyne FLIR, ForgeFX created digital replicas of their physical and virtual products, reproducing all the functions the physical objects perform. This simulator, running on a standard tablet computer, gives the JPEO-CBRND the ability to widely deploy simulation-based training to operators, who can master the complex controls and processes involved in operating a UAV and all of the onboard sensors it carries. 

 The simulator recreates a CBRND reconnaissance mission featuring an NBCRV equipped with a sensor suite array and two pods, each containing a UAS. The UAS in the simulator is an R80D Skyraider drone carrying a MUVETM B330 Continuous Biological Detector and Collector payload, both manufactured by Teledyne FLIR. The Skyraider is launched from the NBCRV and directed into an area suspected to be contaminated by airborne substances. Operated by means of the ATAK application running on a tablet computer inside the NBCRV, the drone’s sensor payload helps the CBRND personnel triangulate on the position, speed, and contents of airborne contamination. 

 Learn more: https://www.einpresswire.com/article/656457540/unmanned-aircraft-system-uas-training-simulator-delivered-to-jpeo-cbrnd-by-forgefx-simulations-and-mriglobal

Virtual Reality Training to Support an Unmanned Ground Vehicle

In partnership with ForgeFX, MRIGlobal created a fully functional, cutting-edge, virtual simulator for training on the remote operation of an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV). These efforts enabled operators to become familiar with the UGV hardware and software, while also tele-operating the unmanned reconnaissance vehicle, in a simulated environment. As a result, the simulator allows effective and efficient end-user training on unique systems and limited material resources regardless of location of the trainee or asset.

Although traditional learning methods such as lectures, reading material, videos, and demonstrations are a tried-and-true means of providing technical information to learners, simulator-based instruction can accelerate and enhance comprehension of equipment functionality and operational procedures in many ways. Simulated equipment and environments give trainees “hands-on” experience before they ever touch real-world machines. Virtual Simulators also provide: 

• Reinforced Education – Onscreen instructions prompt the user through the tutorials. This combination of reading the directions and immediately acting upon them in the simulator increases familiarity with the equipment and begins development of muscle memory that aids in response time and accuracy. 
• Consistency – Structured tutorials ensure all operators receive the same education and use the same approved techniques in order to maximize safety and efficiency. Trainees may work at their own pace to comprehend the material. 
• Verisimilitude – Virtual 3D visualized equipment replicates the real world with a high degree of accuracy. Audio cues such as engine noise, switch clicks, and alarms replicate the authentic experience of hands-on operation. 
• Gamification – The application of game-design elements and principles in non-game contexts is called gamification. Using gamification in training simulators improves user engagement and focus, training efficiency, and ease of use. This directly translates into a well-trained group of operators, meeting the goal of the project.

Learn More: https://www.mriglobal.org/virtual-reality-training/

Designing, Developing, Deploying, and Supporting Augmented Reality-Based CBRN Device Training Simulations

We'd like to thank Augmented World Expo for inviting us to present at Augmented World Expo, 2023 last week at the Santa Clara Convention Center, and for posting the talk online for all to see:
https://www.youtube.com/embed/-yOnL3D_kp8

ForgeFX CEO, Greg Meyers, and CPO, Scott LaForge, presented this session covering the augmented reality-based CBRN detection device training simulators we're developing for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) through the JPEO for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBNRD) in collaboration with research institute, MRIGlobal, and CBRN detection device manufacturers, including Teledyne FLIR.

The JPEO-CBRND partnered with MRIGlobal and ForgeFX Simulations to produce The CBNRD HoloTrainer, a networked multiuser Microsoft HoloLens 2 augmented reality training simulator for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear detection device operators. This presentation will cover the entire project lifecycle, including government requirements and the development of holographically projected interactive virtual equipment, culminating in deployment to soldiers. The CBRND HoloTrainer is a groundbreaking spatial computing application that significantly increases the effectiveness of its users.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/-yOnL3D_kp8

ForgeFX Simulations & MRIGlobal Develop an Augmented Reality CBRN Detection Device Training Simulator for US Military

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES, May 30, 2023/EINPresswire.com/ -- The U.S. Department of Defense Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBRND) has contracted MRIGlobal and ForgeFX Simulations to develop an augmented reality (AR) CBRN detection device training simulator. The Enhanced Warfighter Augmented Trainer (EWAT), or HoloTrainer, is a training simulator designed specifically for the Joint Project Manager Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Special Operations Forces (JPM CBRN SOF) to provide first responders and warfighters with the best possible training to identify hazardous materials and situations accurately.

The training simulator program is powered by a Microsoft HoloLens 2, projecting holographic interactive digital twins of physical devices. The application includes guided training lessons for all major functions the device performs, with voice-over-narration and text instruction. Users can learn at their own pace, by doing actual tasks and steps needed to master use of the real-world device. In addition, the HoloTrainer allows users to train with physical devices, seeing holographically projected animations and instructions on the heads-up-display (HUD) in front of them, allowing them to keep their hands on the device at all times. The application also supports networked multi-user connectivity, enabling trainers and trainees to work together remotely as if in the same room. Read the full press release here: https://www.einpresswire.com/article/636692119/forgefx-simulations-mriglobal-develop-an-augmented-reality-cbrn-detection-device-training-simulator-for-us-military

ForgeFX Simulations at Augmented World Expo USA 2023

Come visit us at AWE 2023 in Santa Clara, CA from May 31 - June 2.

Discover the cutting-edge technologies and innovations that are shaping the future, and stop by booth #736 to meet with us, and learn about the latest trends and advancements in the field of augmented and virtual reality training. https://aweusa2023.expofp.com/?forgefx-simulations

First of Its Kind Virtual Reality Training Aims to Help Growing Demand in Skilled Trade Jobs Amid New Infrastructure Bill

ForgeFX Simulations is proud to be a training simulator development partner of StrataTech Education Group, a company that focuses on the acquisition, growth and development of specialized career education schools, particularly skilled-trade programs designed to address the nation’s growing infrastructure needs. ForgeFX worked with StrataTech and their subsidiary, the Tulsa Welding School, to develop OcuWeld™, a virtual reality welding training simulator program that teaches students how to prep, grind and join materials in a virtual environment that removes the safety and cost concerns.

OcuWeld Welding Training Simulator

Welcome to the digital transformation of education! The OcuWeld™ welding training simulator utilizes virtual reality to enhance welding training programs using the Meta Quest VR device. Designed by welders for welders, and developed by seasoned ForgeFX Simulations developers, OcuWeld provides welding students with the opportunity to practice their hands-on training in a virtual environment where concerns about safety, access and cost are no longer relevant. OcuWeld immerses students in a virtual environment that mimics real life training experiences and provides the opportunity to practice skills independently.

StrataTech has integrated OcuWeld into the curricula of their subsidiaries, Tulsa Welding School and The Refrigeration School, to ensure that students have future-proof skills that employers are seeking. The program launches at a time when demand for skilled trade workers is at an all-time high in part due to the recently passed Infrastructure Bill. The bill, combined with President Biden’s Build Back Framework, will add an average of 1.5 million jobs per year for the next 10 years, according to The White House.

First of Its Kind Virtual Reality Training Aims to Help Growing Demand in Skilled Trade Jobs Amid New Infrastructure Bill

The growing pace of digitization is shifting the paradigm of education to lifelong learning that requires a continual evolution of technical skills and training. Alex DeClair and Chris Schuler, directors of the welding programs at The Refrigeration School, Inc. (RSI) and Tulsa Welding School (TWS), say today’s students have different needs, and infusing technology into programs is now imperative in the modern education space. Similarly, Chase Lane, VP of Transformation for StrataTech, understands the need for digital transformation in education and its role in addressing the nation’s critical infrastructure needs.

“It’s time that higher education meets the needs of its students rather than vice versa,” said Lane. “Digital is transforming education and ensuring that these technological advances reach the skilled trades is extremely important to StrataTech and vital to the growing needs of our labor force.”

OcuWeld engages students with a mixture of gamification and education. Students enjoy learning in a fun and highly interactive and dynamic environment that mimics real-world applications.

“As educators, it is our responsibility to ensure that we infuse technology into our programs and curriculum to meet the changing needs of our students and their future employers,” said Mary Kelly, President/CEO of StrataTech. “OcuWeld will not only help our students get additional training, it will also position them to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals.”

Read the full OcuWeld Business Wire press release.

 #virtualreality #training #simulator

MRIGlobal and ForgeFX Simulations Develop Cutting-Edge Simulator That Prepares Warfighters for Real-World Scenarios

For years, the military has relied on Nuclear Biological Chemical Reconnaissance Vehicles (NBCRV) to visualize and navigate battlefield threats like dangerous chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear weapons at close range. Unmanned ground vehicles can be remotely operated to conduct sampling, provide valuable situational awareness for the soldier, and increase combat power. While traditional training methods (like lectures and demonstrations) on these sophisticated, multi-million dollar vehicles are tried and true, simulator-based instruction can accelerate and enhance comprehension. Trainees receive hands-on experience with virtual equipment and environments before they ever touch the real-world machines.

MRIGlobal Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance software engineers are experienced in working with the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBRND) to develop an acclaimed sensor suite upgrade that integrates CBRN sensors onto reconnaissance vehicles. Building on that expertise, MRIGlobal, in partnership with ForgeFX Simulations, designed a cutting-edge modern simulator for training use on a full suite of manned and unmanned ground vehicles and the sensors they contain. 

Read More: Newswire, 10/6/2020: MRIGlobal and ForgeFX Simulations Develop Cutting-Edge Simulator That Prepares Warfighters for Real-World Scenarios

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WMATA Awards VR Training Simulator Development to ForgeFX

Washington Metro Area Transit Authority has contracted ForgeFX Simulations to produce an immersive VR computer simulation to enhance operator training.

https://www.newswire.com/news/wmata-awards-vr-training-simulator-development-to-forgefx-20423539

BCIT Launches The CUBE

British Columbia Institute of Technology Launches The CUBE: Centre for the use of 3D simulation technology, taking teaching and learning to a new level.

With a US$1 million grant from Lockheed Martin and $380,000 in software contributions from NGRAIN Corporation, BCIT has launched The Cube.




BURNABY, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 11/02/09 -- It will transform the way instructors teach and the way students learn at BCIT. It will bring the workplace into the classroom and enrich curriculum - virtually.

The CUBE initiative places 3D simulations of expensive, rare, and leading edge equipment into the hands of BCIT students, anytime, anywhere allowing learners to explore complex components and systems in a 3D virtual world before they touch the real thing.

Read the entire press release

Technology Enables Ground Support Equipment Training

Airside International article: Technology Enables GSE Training.

This article discusses the 3D training simulator ForgeFX developed for Global Ground Support. Airside International is a quarterly magazine aimed at airport authorities, airlines, equipment providers, and infrastructure developers. The article includes an interview with Jeffrey Walsh, Vice President of Sales and Service for Global Ground Support, Greg Meyers, President for ForgeFX, and Adam Kane, Technical Director for ForgeFX.



Global Ground Support offers the market the 3D simulation software developed by ForgeFX as part of a package with their equipment. The first simulator was delivered in December 2007 to JetBlue. The deicing simulation has been a huge success and has generated an incredible amount of interest. Global has a simulator with a customer who does not even have any of their trucks, but because the controls are very similar between competitors’ vehicles and their vehicles, they get a lot of the benefit from the 3D simulator.

It is possible to train a ground support operator to use a deicer correctly through simulation-based training in just 30 minutes. In the past, companies would take their new employees, put them through 8, 12, or 16 hours of classroom deicing training, then they would put them in a truck for one, two, or four hours depending upon the customer to teach them how to use the truck. Unfortunately, most of this training took place in August, September, or October. Those new employees might not actually spray an aircraft for several months, they then get into a very complicated piece of equipment in which to perform difficult tasks in a timely fashion. The only piece of equipment on the ramp that is more complicated to operate than a deicer is an aircraft, this clearly demonstrates the need for high quality training.

The training simulation goes beyond just teaching an employee how the controls of the truck work. It gets into the whys of the actual deicing process. It trains not only on truck operation but also on the processes and procedures involved in deicing an aircraft correctly, safely, and cost effectively.

Jeffrey Walsh, Vice President of Sales and Service for Global Ground Support, was able to take his 20 years of airline, airport, deicing, and flying experience; couple it with ForgeFX's simulation development expertise, to create a new deicing training program that brought deicing and simulators to the next level. Global Ground Support is striving to make this simulation equipment increasingly real every day. The next update to the simulator will show the fluid flowing off the wings. It will also have wind speed and wind direction and all sorts of other components that make it even more real. Simulations can never be too real.

Full article: Technology Enables GSE Training
Project case study: Interactive 3D deicing training simulator.

Global Ground Support and ForgeFX Partner to Develop an Interactive 3D Deicing Training Simulator

San Francisco, CA, United States, 02/09/2009 - ForgeFX, a leading interactive 3D simulation and serious game developer, has produced and deployed an aircraft deicing training simulator for Global Ground Support's clients. The simulator allows airport ground support equipment operators to train for the deicing process with more flexibility and a lower cost than traditional training.



Ice, snow, freezing rain, and other contaminants can build up on an aircraft making it dangerous to fly. Deicing is a complex, multi-step process that if done properly returns the aircraft to a clean safe state.

Proper deicing is mission critical, requires a high level of dexterity and spatial relations ability, an intimate knowledge of the aircraft, and the impact of different weather conditions. The challenge is that training is costly, requires the availability of expensive equipment, and must be comprehensive, covering a wide variety of factors including plane type, weather conditions, time of day, wind speed, contamination type, etc.

Global Ground Support’s simulator, based on their model 2200TEAP, addresses these issues. The simulation allows the user to train across a variety of factors. The training simulation offers the ability for users to practice and take a performance test while deicing a virtual aircraft. The simulation tracks the performance of users and records their scores for review by the instructor. The simulation provides both an overall score, as well as a detailed score breakdown, for each simulation session. This scoring system encourages healthy competition among users while learning the correct procedures.

The operator sits in a virtual cab which is attached to a boom arm, which is attached to a truck. The operator of the simulation has full control over the 2200TEAP’s boom arm, cab rotation, truck location, nozzle settings, fluid selection, cab lights, type of plane, time of day, and weather conditions. This gives airlines the ability to train their operators without risking damage to the real-world equipment. Also, virtual training doesn’t use up consumables such as fuel and expensive fluids. Deicing operators must be careful when deicing an aircraft, since a collision between deicing equipment and a plane is costly. A collision requires planes to be grounded and flight delays - a costly mistake in reality becomes a valuable lesson when simulated.

Case Study: Interactive 3D Deicing Training Simulator

ForgeFX’s solid track record in the development of effective simulation products was key to Global Ground Support‘s selection of the ForgeFX team. Representing industry leaders such as Adobe, Pearson Education, Farmers Insurance, Heifer International, and Pfizer, ForgeFX consistently delivers interactive 3D simulations that help achieve their client’s project goals while optimizing their bottom lines.