NORCAT and Vale are partnering up to create new experiential training programs for the mining workforce.
It will provide training in equipment operation and maintenance, including VR pre-operational circle check training tools and exercises for mine equipment, including forklifts and utility vehicles.
The programming is expected to improve safety, efficiency and productivity in mine-training operations.
NORCAT believes this new approach will “transform how the global mining industry trains and educates its workforce.”
“Experiential learning technologies, including virtual reality, represent the future of training and engaged learning and our work with leading mining companies has demonstrated that, when applied correctly, these integrated technologies create an immersive-learning experience that drives meaningful learning outcomes and enhances knowledge retention,” said Ed Wisniewski, NORCAT’s director of technology, in a news release.
“NORCAT’s portfolio of integrated learning technologies enables us to deliver engaging and meaningful content in an immersive experience for the global mining industry like no other in the world.”
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Vale’s Chris Bamberger, manager of learning and development for its North Atlantic Operations, said NORCAT’s technology would complement its current VR training.
“Safety and operational excellence is a top priority for Vale, and we are pleased to announce the partnership with NORCAT to advance and augment our virtual reality training capabilities,” Bamberger said in the release.
“We look forward to increased collaboration and innovation around this critical space to transform the future of work and learning in the global mining industry.”
Based in Sudbury, NORCAT develops and offers skilled labour training, and provides incubation space for emerging companies.
It additionally owns an underground mine used for testing and prototyping new mining technology.
