LearnPro Group acquires RiVR training products and specialist team

by Featured NewsMergers & AcquisitionsTraining

LearnPro Group adds RiVR products and staff

LearnPro Group has acquired immersive training products and technologies from RiVR, adding new virtual reality and video-based learning tools across emergency services, healthcare, defence, industrial and other safety critical sectors.

LearnPro Group announced that the deal includes RiVR Link, described as a Classroom in a Box video-based training solution, alongside RiVR Fire Investigate and RiVR Crime Scene Investigate.

A team of nine specialists responsible for developing and operating the products has joined LearnPro Group as part of the acquisition.

The team is led by Bradley Woodward and will continue to work from its existing site in Southam, Warwickshire, within LearnPro Group’s global business operations.

LearnPro Group expands immersive training range

The acquisition adds the RiVR platform to LearnPro Group’s XVR simulation suite and broadens the group’s scenario-based learning offer.

RiVR’s technologies are used across the UK, North America, Asia and Australasia.

The products combine video with virtual reality and augmented reality environments built from real world burns, crime scenes and high risk scenarios.

The material states that these environments allow learners to practise decision making, evidence gathering and operational procedures in controlled settings.

RiVR Link is described as a tool that allows users to build video-based learning in an agile way.

Leaders outline the deal

LearnPro Group CEO Costi Karayannis said: “RiVR has earned a reputation for producing exciting immersive training tools and content to support a range of use cases across emergency, health, public and other high-risk settings.

“By bringing these innovations into LearnPro Group, we’re accelerating our mission to provide the most advanced, flexible, and impactful learning ecosystem available today.”

RiVR’s Bradley Friend Woodward added: “Joining LearnPro Group allows us to take the technologies we’ve built to the next level.

“This partnership gives our team the resources, reach, and strategic alignment we need to accelerate innovation and deliver even greater value to customers.

“It’s an exciting next step.”

The deal was supported by Elucid Partners’ Paul Turner and James Barraclough, who acted as sell-side corporate finance advisers to RiVR.

Viking introduces advancements in virtual reality training for fire protection professionals

by Featured NewsSafetyTraining

Viking group announces updates to Virtual Viking, its VR training platform

Viking Group, Inc., a renowned Michigan-based firm specialising in fire protection solutions, has announced significant advancements in its virtual reality (VR) training platform, Virtual Viking.

This initiative aims to transform the educational landscape for fire protection professionals.

By incorporating state-of-the-art training simulations and guided programs, Virtual Viking seeks to deepen the understanding of Viking’s valves and systems among its users.

Virtual Viking is now accessible via the Steam platform and features a revamped menu design for improved navigation.

This upgrade enables trainees to immerse themselves in a VR environment at their convenience, whether at home, in the office, or on the job site.

The platform also introduces new courses, including F1 and VXD Hydraulic simulations, alongside “Startup” modules to facilitate users through system startup processes.

Enhanced user experience and navigation

Rob Rudaitis, Manager – Digital Products, expressed his enthusiasm for the updates: “We are excited to introduce these new updates to Virtual Viking which help simplify user experience and provide easier navigation.

Virtual Viking continues to set the standard for immersive and effective VR training, empowering fire protection professionals to enhance their skillset.”

The platform’s compatibility with VR headsets and web browsers ensures flexible and convenient access to high-quality fire protection training.

This initiative underscores Viking’s commitment to leveraging technology for educational purposes, providing professionals with the tools they need to succeed in their field.

Viking’s legacy in fire protection

Viking has been a global leader in the manufacture and distribution of fire protection and life safety systems for over a century.

The company’s products and services have played a crucial role in safeguarding lives and properties against the devastating effects of fire.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of Virtual Viking’s latest advancements highlights Viking Group, Inc.’s ongoing dedication to innovation and education within the fire protection industry.

By harnessing the power of virtual reality, Viking provides professionals with an unparalleled training experience that is both immersive and effective.

This approach enhances the skillset of fire protection professionals and contributes significantly to the safety and well-being of communities worldwide.

The initiative exemplifies how technology can be leveraged to advance educational methods, offering a glimpse into the future of professional training in critical industries.

New virtual reality fire safety training scheme launches in UK

by Featured NewsTraining

In an innovative step forward for the property and construction sector, a novel training programme focused on passive fire protection has been introduced. The scheme, a first for the UK, is rooted in virtual reality (VR) technology and has been established in the North West of England.

An innovative solution to fire safety training

This novel venture, known as trainingEXP, has been launched by Jason McKnight and Joseph Dillon. It operates as a sister company to their established construction and project management firm, RECOM Solutions, based in Salford Quays. The founders have dedicated a significant investment to this endeavour and brought on board seasoned fire protection professional Adam Steed to lead the team of trainers.

Adam, joining from a certification company named Warringtonfire, brings considerable experience as a registered inspector of fire protection systems.

Emphasis on practical learning with VR

A distinguishing feature of trainingEXP is the use of VR technology, which replicates real-life environments to highlight common fire protection hazards in buildings. “By replicating live environments, such as hospitals, users can take virtual walks around buildings to carry out passive fire surveys and identify fire protection hazards in an immersive way”, stated Jason McKnight.

Unlike any existing software in the UK and Europe, their bespoke solution promotes interactivity. Delegates are able to engage directly with the simulations created, improving the understanding and awareness of fire safety significantly.

Expansion to meet demand

The founders of trainingEXP initially created a training academy for their own staff, including passive fire protection operatives, supervisors, project managers and surveyors. However, an increased demand from clients led to the expansion into a full-fledged venture.

The comprehensive VR-based training programme aims to serve various sectors, including residential, health and social care, commercial, leisure, education, heritage and industrial. Additionally, it caters to professionals like architects, tradespeople and operatives, as well as fire and rescue services.

An array of accredited inline courses

Beyond fire protection, trainingEXP also offers a range of online health and safety courses focusing on construction environments. Topics covered include asbestos management, design, regulation, first aid, and manual handling. All courses have been recognised or accredited by industry bodies such as the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health and the Association for Specialist Fire Protection.

Adam Steed commented: “Our mission is to help companies and organisations better understand their obligations and provide industry professionals with specialist knowledge that will improve fire safety”.

Towards a safer future

RECOM’s passive fire protection division, the fastest-growing arm of the group, has extended into a nationwide operation due to a series of contract wins. They have doubled their team of directly-employed installers in the past year. The company provides services such as passive fire protection installation, fire door surveys and installations, and repairs and upgrades, among others.

The launch of trainingEXP and its cutting-edge VR-based training scheme marks a significant stride in improving fire safety knowledge and standards across the built environment.