The Delivering Innovative Vocational Education through Virtual Reality Technology (DIVE-VRT) program hosted an open house March 26 at its classroom in the Telecom Technology Park near USF’s Tampa campus.
Attendees participated in virtual reality demonstrations which provided a better understanding of how the technology is used as part of the curriculum.
Attendees included representatives from Hillsborough County Public Schools, Vocational Rehabilitation, the Chamber of Commerce, prospective participants and families, advisory committee members, and USF faculty and staff.
Guests met DIVE-VRT instructors, staff and recent graduates; viewed a testimonial video; toured the classroom; and participated in live virtual reality demonstrations.
"The impressive turnout and visible enthusiasm reinforce that the DIVE-VRT program is meeting a real need," said Tammy Jorgensen Smith, PhD, principal investigator and project director. "This event exceeded expectations and clearly demonstrated the community’s interest in innovative workforce pathways."
The DIVE-VRT team says the success of this event strengthens their commitment and fuels excitement for the possibilities ahead. The program is poised for continued growth and in the fall will expand their services to students with disabilities in Hillsborough County Public Schools as part of the standard curriculum.
Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, DIVE-VRT offers no-cost, job training to individuals with disabilities interested in entering the skilled trades workforce.
The program is accepting applications for a cohort beginning this fall. Participants will train for careers in building maintenance using virtual reality to build skills and earn industry certifications. For more information or to apply, visit the program website.