Bechtel, a global leader in engineering, procurement, and construction, and Industrial Training International (ITI), a global leader in training and technical services for users of load-handling equipment, will collaborate to expand the scope of the most widely used virtual reality (VR) crane simulator on the market. The collaboration will use Bechtel’s global expertise in rigging, safety and crane operation and ITI’s extensive VR and craft training experience to expand the training module library of crane types and practice assessments endorsed by the National Commission for Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO).

“We are looking forward to working with ITI, applying our extensive experience in construction and workforce development to enhance innovative training programs that will strengthen the knowledge of craft colleagues working on projects across the world,” said Jim Nolan, president of Bechtel Equipment Operations. “Our collaboration with ITI will support construction industry’s efforts to use new technologies in broadening workforce development opportunities, improving safety for our people and lowering cost for our customers.”

“I am humbled by the people at Bechtel. They think big. They are incredibly innovative and they solve problems in unique ways,” said Zack Parnell, CEO of ITI. “Additionally, Bechtel’s desire to commit resources to improving safety and workforce development across all industries is inspiring.”

The collaboration between the two companies started in 2016 with Bechtel subject-matter experts contributing to the development of ITI’s VR mobile crane simulator project aimed at increasing the quality and cost of craft training through immersive user experience and use of gaming hardware. Using new technologies and input from industry experts, the training improves in-depth real-life scenarios used for training, thus improving operator readiness and safety on site. As part of the collaboration, Bechtel will also expand its subscription to ITI’s training program, which the company uses in its workforce development programs on construction sites across the world.