Healium Awarded Sole Source Contract Status with US Military for Mental Health Solutions. Groundbreaking Technology Personifies Bio-Data into Immersive, Reactive Media

Healium, the world leader in immersive biofeedback solutions, is proud to announce sole source contract status with the US military. Healium is already healing at VA hospitals across the country using its award-winning virtual and augmented reality experiences. The successful execution of this most recent US Air Force contract expands its products for PTSD, anxiety, and sleep to the nation’s 300,000 US Airmen. 

Healium’s mental fitness training and patented technology bring biometric data to life inside virtual, augmented, or mixed reality stories so the user can see and interact with their own EEG brain patterns, heart rate, skin conductance, blood pressure, or other biomarkers. Healium immersive products, including Sleepium, are used worldwide by frontline healthcare workers, elite athletes, students, and the US military to self-manage anxiety, burnout, and downshift the nervous system before sleep or stressful events.  In 9 peer-reviewed journals, Healium has been shown to have clinical benefit in as little as 4 minutes.  In a recently wrapped Mayo Clinic clinical trial, Healium showed significant reductions in state-trait anxiety in patients waiting for cardiac surgery.

Prior to this sole-source contract, Healium was selected by AFWERX for SBIRs to address the most pressing challenges in the Department of the Air Force (DAF). The Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX have partnered to streamline the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) process by accelerating the small business experience through faster proposal to award timelines, changing the pool of potential applicants by expanding opportunities to small business and eliminating bureaucratic overhead by continually implementing process improvement changes in contract execution. The DAF began offering the Open Topic SBIR/STTR program in 2018 which expanded the range of innovations the DAF funded and now, Healium has started its journey to create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America.

Each year, 800,000 people worldwide take their own lives. Anxiety is the cause of 60% of all illnesses and diseases, up to 50% of insomnia cases, and up to 90% of doctor visits. 

 “We’re delighted to empower more members of the US military and VA hospitals with Healium’s mental health solutions that are uniquely powered by quantitative data from the user’s own body”, says Sarah Hill, CEO of Healium, who founded the company after covering decades of trauma as a TV news reporter. “Of all of the dashboards Airmen monitor, Healium is a way for them to train their mental resilience with their own biometric EEG brainwave or heart rate data.”

About Healium
Healium is a media channel and patented technology that connects bio-data from consumer wearables to modify and recommend objects. Its products for anxiety and sleep allow users to learn to self-regulate their stress by giving them the ability to SEE their own EEG brain patterns or heart rate in real-time. In 9 peer-reviewed journals, Healium has been shown to significantly reduce anxiety and improve mood in as little as four minutes.

 About AFRL
The Air Force Research Laboratory is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace force. With a workforce of more than 12,500 across nine technology areas and 40 other operations across the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit afresearchlab.com.

About AFWERX
As the innovation arm of the DAF and a directorate within the Air Force Research Laboratory, AFWERX brings cutting-edge American ingenuity from small businesses and start-ups to address the most pressing challenges of the DAF. AFWERX employs approximately 370 military, civilian and contractor personnel at four hubs and sites executing an annual $1.4 billion budget. Since 2019, AFWERX has awarded over 10,400 contracts worth more than $7.24 billion to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base and drive faster technology transition to operational capability. For more information, visit: afwerx.com.  

 Company Press Contact:
Press Contact Name: Lydia Melton
Press Contact: Chief of Staff
Lydia@tryhealium.com

Sony Electronics Expands LED Display Family with Launch of Crystal LED CAPRI

The Company’s Latest Crystal LED Displays Make Virtual Production Even More Accessible

Sony Electronics Inc. is expanding its lineup of LED walls with the debut of Crystal LED CAPRI. The new CAPRI series achieves a maximum brightness of 1,500 cd/m2 with a 2.50mm LED pitch size. Key features include high refresh rates and brightness, a wide color gamut, and anti-reflection. Additional benefits include installation flexibility, familiar structure, streamlined maintenance, and compatibility with Sony’s ecosystem of virtual production technologies. The new models, ZRD-VS25FBand ZRD-VS25FM, are compatible with the Brompton controller and the Megapixel controller, respectively.

The CAPRI models are targeted to a broad range of customers looking to cost-effectively support virtual production applications, including television, feature films, commercials, and broadcast, as well as for rental and staging purposes. The CAPRI series offers options that ensure the high picture quality synonymous with Sony at a more accessible price. CAPRI also complements Sony’s premium flagship Crystal LED VERONA. Using the same controllers and featuring the same luminance as VERONA allows the CAPRI LED wall to be used together with the VERONA LED wall, for example, the VERONA as the main wall and the CAPRI on the ceiling. 

The CAPRI series is expected to be available this winter. A sample of the CAPRI will be on display June 11-13 at InfoComm 2025 in Orlando in Sony’s booth, 2001.

“With the announcement of CAPRI, Sony is furthering our commitment to the creation of Spatial Content, such as virtual production, by giving a wider range of users opportunities for flexibly showcasing images in high fidelity,” said Rich Ventura, Vice President, Professional Display Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “We’ve broadened our lineup to offer more cost-conscious choices, which expand the market in support of high-quality virtual production at every level and ensure the growth of Sony’s distinctive virtual production ecosystem.”

Impressive Picture Quality
Virtual productions rely on high quality imagery. The CAPRI series combines high refresh rates of up to 7,680Hz to reduce scanline artifacts and ensure smooth, fluid motion. With a high brightness of 1,500 cd/m2, complemented by coverage of over 98% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, the displays accurately reproduce lifelike images. Additionally, the new models feature anti-reflection capabilities to mitigate the impact of reflection from lighting equipment.

Easy Installation
The latest CAPRI series also takes advantage of recent installation advancements to ensure fast and efficient setup. Offering a 1:1 cabinet optimized for temporary installations, such as virtual production stages, the models can quickly and easily be assembled and dismantled using locating pins for simple alignment and a tool-free lever locking mechanism. 

Furthermore, the Crystal LED’s modular nature allows for it to be set up in varying sizes and configurations, including stacked, hung, curved, or oval installation, and features a strong frame for supporting additional weight. Edge protection plates and pin slides reduce damage and wear and tear on parts.

Industry Standard Control
Through alignment with Brompton’s Tessera SX40 and Megapixel’s HELIOS, the CAPRI models maintain control using the same familiar tools and interfaces already commonly deployed in the industry, alleviating the need for additional training and maximizing uptime.

Streamlined Maintenance
To keep virtual productions focused on the creative processes, the CAPRI has thoughtful features that simplify maintenance. LED module blocks can be changed from the rear and feature status indication lights for easily identifying which blocks need service.

Efficient Workflows
Sony is well-positioned in the virtual production space, providing customers with a connected ecosystem of solutions including cinema and pan-tilt-zoom cameras, a marker-free camera tracking system, LED walls, multi-camera live switching, remote production options, previsualization tools, mobile motion capture, and a virtual production tool set, which together contribute to workflow efficiencies.

As a part of Sony’s Virtual Production Tool Set, a compilation of resources to help improve pre-production and on-set workflows, the Color Calibrator ensures the visualized colors before the shoot match the colors that appear in dailies. In addition, the Camera and Display Plugin combines technical information on the cameras and LED pitch to aid in predicting and addressing aliasing during pre-visualization and on-set. Version 3.0 of the Virtual Production Tool Set, planned for fall 2025, will provide Off-axis color shift compensation capability exclusive to select Crystal LED series, including CAPRI, VERONA, and B-series. By using camera position information, this feature will correct color shifts due to curved or angled installation, in real-time, significantly reducing color correction and editing in post-production.

For more information, visit https://pro.sony/ue_US/products/led-video-walls/capri.

VR/AR Association Launches Salt Lake City Chapter, Appoints EducationXR CEO Cory Heizenrader as Chapter President

VR/AR Association Launches Salt Lake City Chapter, Appoints EducationXR CEO Cory Heizenrader as Chapter President

The VR/AR Association (VRARA) is thrilled to announce the launch of its Salt Lake City Chapter, appointing Cory Heizenrader, founder and CEO of EducationXR, as Chapter President. This new chapter reflects the region’s rising prominence in the global immersive technology industry and its deep talent pool in spatial computing, simulation, and 3D content creation.

Cory leads EducationXR, a Unity Enterprise platform that enables the creation, deployment, and distribution of immersive learning content across phones, tablets, desktops, and VR headsets—making XR accessible and scalable across industries.

Nathan Pettyjohn, Founder & President of the VR/AR Association, said:
“Salt Lake City is emerging as a vibrant hub for immersive technology, combining a strong creative ecosystem with world-class research institutions and entrepreneurial energy. Under Cory’s leadership, we’re excited to build a thriving community that connects local talent to global opportunities.”

Cory Heizenrader adds:
“Utah is home to extremely talented individuals with mature experience addressing the growing global demand for immersive 3D content. It’s a genuine pleasure to help bring this community together.”

Utah is already home to several pioneering immersive initiatives. The University of Utah has led national efforts in using VR for medical training and simulation, and BYU’s Center for Animation continues to produce XR talent working at the highest levels of the industry. Salt Lake City also hosts Sandbox VR, a leading location-based entertainment venue showcasing the potential of group immersive experiences. Major employers like Northrop Grumman and Intermountain Healthcare are actively exploring XR for simulation, remote collaboration, and workforce development. As AI accelerates the capabilities of spatial computing, from generative environments to intelligent avatars and adaptive training systems, XR becomes the canvas on which AI comes to life. Any organization investing in AI without exploring its connection to immersive technology is missing half the picture and potentially falling behind in the next wave of digital transformation.

Join the Movement in Salt Lake City

We invite local professionals, startups, academic institutions, and enterprise innovators to get involved in the Salt Lake City chapter. Whether you're building in virtual and augmented reality or looking to adopt XR for training, design, marketing, or simulation, you’ll gain:

• Exclusive networking opportunities

• Access to global industry events

• Visibility on a global stage

• Cutting-edge insights and resources

• A supportive community driving the future of immersive technology

To learn more about membership benefits or to become involved, please reach out to slc@thevrara.com or info@thevrara.com, or visit www.thevrara.com.

Call for Participation - Best in XR Education (VRARA Edu Summit 2025)

Once again, we will do our annual virtual summit for Education in October 2025 (specific date to be decided with our event sponsors).

We expect 1000+ attendees and 20+ speakers.

See the participants from last year here.

You can see the video recordings from our past events here.

Our past summit had 1470+ attendees, and 3340+ watched the video recordings!

If interested to speak or sponsor, please email kris@thevrara.com.

R-CON: Digital Twins 2025 is coming to Orlando!

R-CON: Digital Twins 2025 is coming to Orlando! 
 June 26–27, 2025 |  Orlando, FL |  Limited to 250 seats

Reality Capture Network is thrilled to announce an incredible speaker lineup for their R-CON: Digital Twins conference and it's shaping the future of innovation, technology, and digital transformation! From industry disruptors to thought leaders, these experts will dive into the real-world impact of digital twins across construction, manufacturing, energy, and more.

Featured speakers include:
Michael Grieves – Executive Director of the Digital Twins Institute
Michael Hotaling – Executive Advisor- ExxonMobil
Kelly Watt–Management Consulting: Program Oversight, Digital Twin & AI/ML Programs- Dallas Ft. Worth International Airport (DFW)

And more to be announced...

This is your chance to connect with executives, visionaries, and tech pioneers who are driving change. R-CON:Digital Twins is more than an event—it's a movement for the future of digital transformation and intelligent infrastructure.

Spots are limited! Don’t miss your chance to be part of this high-impact experience.

 Register now: www.rcondigitaltwins.com

Special DISCOUNT Code for VRARA Members
Email info@thevrara.com

#RCON2025 #DigitalTwins #SmartInfrastructure #InnovationLeaders #ConstructionTech  #RealityCapture #FutureOfTech #OrlandoEvents 

Walk the future of Downtown!

June 7, 10 am to 3 pm, Downtown Seattle 

What will Seattle look like 5, 10, 20 years from now? Grab your family, friends, and phones and join VRARA Seattle and the Seattle Downtown Community Council to find out. Watch the I-5 LID, Westlake Park upgrades, and more come to life using your own mobile phones and the magic of augmented reality (AR). (Take a sneak peek).

Drop by one of the Info Stations to get started on a self-guided tour. Or register for one of our guided tours at 10 am and 1 pm below. (FAQs)
Sign up for Guided Tours here

Unlocking the Future of Healthcare with VR and AR: CitrusBits joins VRARA as a member

Unlocking the Future of Healthcare with VR and AR: CitrusBits joins VRARA as a member

CitrusBits, a leading provider of healthcare technology solutions, is proud to announce its membership with the VR/AR Association (VRARA), the world’s leading organization dedicated to advancing virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in healthcare. This strategic partnership positions CitrusBits to further strengthen its leadership in XR-powered healthcare solutions, delivering innovative technologies that transform patient care, diagnostics, and clinical training.

CitrusBits is recognized for its expertise in digital health innovation, including HIPAA-compliant platforms, AI-driven diagnostics, and immersive XR solutions for healthcare. With the support of VRARA, CitrusBits will amplify its impact through a series of planned initiatives:

• Thought Leadership and Knowledge Sharing: Co-authoring reports on VR and AR in healthcare, contributing to VRARA’s blog and newsletter, and presenting at industry webinars and chapter events.

• Immersive Education and Training: Showcasing IntelliXR, IrisVision and RadiusXR, CitrusBits’ partnered XR healthcare solutions, in VRARA’s online sessions and podcasts.

• Strategic Content and Industry Recognition: Featuring in VRARA’s Fortune Magazine special edition, participating in co-marketing campaigns, and leading discussions as a VRARA committee co-chair.

• Global Community Engagement: Connecting with a vibrant network of XR and digital health innovators across VRARA’s 80,000+ social media followers and 55,000+ newsletter subscribers.

“This partnership with VRARA aligns perfectly with our mission to lead digital health innovation through intelligent, immersive technology,” said Gaurav Malik, Chief Commercial Officer at CitrusBits.

“By combining our healthcare expertise with VRARA’s extensive industry network, we will empower healthcare providers, digital health innovators, and life sciences organizations to deliver more effective, accessible, and patient-centered care.”

About CitrusBits

CitrusBits is a leading provider of healthcare technology solutions, specializing in digital health, XR, AI, and data-driven platforms.

As a trusted technology partner behind products like IntelliXR, RadiusXR, and IrisVision, CitrusBits empowers healthcare organizations with secure, scalable, and compliant platforms that transform patient care, training, and diagnostics. Trusted by health systems, digital health innovators, and life sciences companies, CitrusBits designs, builds, and supports technologies that enhance patient outcomes and drive healthcare innovation.

About VRARA (VR/AR Association)

The VR/AR Association (VRARA) is the world’s largest organization dedicated to advancing virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology. With a global network of industry leaders, innovators, and educators, VRARA connects the XR community through chapters, industry standards, professional development, and collaborative initiatives that accelerate the growth of immersive technology worldwide.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Usman Malik
Head of Business Development
usman@citrusbits.com
925.452.6012

Mass Virtual Expands U.S. Army Aerial Intelligence Training with XR Classroom at Fort Bliss

Mass Virtual Expands U.S. Army Aerial Intelligence Training with XR Classroom at Fort Bliss

Mass Virtual, Inc., a leader in immersive virtual reality training solutions, has expanded its support of the U.S. Army with the deployment of an XR-equipped classroom at Fort Bliss. Built on the company’s MassXR® platform, the classroom delivers high-fidelity, repeatable training for technicians responsible for operating and maintaining advanced sensors and surveillance systems aboard an aircraft.  Mass Virtual is working in collaboration with Project Director Sensors–Aerial Intelligence (PD SAI) to deliver the first-of-its-kind training under the Army’s VAST program.

This effort builds on a previously completed proof-of-concept initiative conducted in partnership with Leidos, showcasing the power of collaboration in advancing military training innovation.

The Virtual Aerial Systems Trainer (VAST) includes an interactive aircraft model, a virtual flight line mirroring real location and immersive emergency scenarios. These elements aim to improve proficiency, speed up learning, and prepare soldiers for high-stakes, multi-domain operations (MDO).

To support evolving training needs, Mass Virtual has delivered a suite of virtual modules that allow soldiers — both pilots and non-rated crew members — to engage in hands-on learning for key systems and procedures, ranging from preflight operations to advanced maintenance and electronic intelligence (ELINT) tasks. These modules were developed and deployed in record time, with initial training occurring just hours after receiving official approval.

“We’re honored to provide immersive, mission-ready training to the U.S. Army,” said U.S. Army CSM (Ret.) Billy Webb, Senior Director of Business Development at Mass Virtual. “This classroom gives soldiers an environment to learn, practice, and perfect their skills—so they can execute with confidence when it matters most.”

Shortly after deployment, non-rated crew members (NRCMs) from the 204th Military Intelligence Battalion began training in the new virtual modules. Within a single training session, they completed the designated training experience, marking the first operational exposure of this user group to the new content. Their early feedback is already informing iterative improvements and laying the groundwork for future enhancements.

“The soldiers love the capability and they're already incorporating the VAST into their training program and thinking of new ways to use it,” said Sam Benfer, Training Manager, PD SAI. "They're amazed by the fidelity and excited to build upon the virtual foundation that the product provides.”

This XR classroom supports the Army’s broader modernization strategy by providing soldiers with scalable, immersive training that adapts to evolving mission demands. As the Army advances its use of digital and distributed learning technologies, efforts like this ensure Warfighters are equipped with the tools they need to stay mission-ready -- anytime, anywhere. Mass Virtual remains committed to delivering training solutions that align with the Army’s vision for a more agile, technology-enabled force.

View the VAST classroom in action: Mass Virtual Expands U.S. Amy Aerial Intelligence Training with XR

About Mass Virtual
Mass Virtual stands at the forefront of the XR industry, leveraging 15+ years of unparalleled expertise in designing, developing, and deploying immersive, turn-key training ecosystems. Our commitment to innovation drives us to consistently push the boundaries of what's possible, delivering pioneering XR products that transform the way our customers experience training and education. We take pride in exceeding expectations—delivering solutions that enhance human performance, increase readiness, and deliver value for the Warfighter. Learn more at www.massvirtual.com.

Magnetic 3D Partners wtih Rutgers RWJ School of Medicine

Magnetic 3D today announced that the company has signed an expanded agreement with Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS) to advance clinical research and applications leveraging the Magnetic 3D’s glasses-free 3D platform. The goal of the agreement is to deliver new immersive solutions for healthcare providers and educational institutions aided by Artificial Intelligence.

The agreement facilitates collaboration between Magnetic 3D and RWJMS to explore a number of exciting applications from new medical devices that could one day assist clinicians in the operating room, to interactive educational tools that bring immersive virtual reality (VR) content to medical students and patients alike, without the need for headsets.

“One of the biggest hurdles with VR and AR technologies is the commitment to wearing a headset or 3D glasses,” said Dr. Naveena Yanamala, PhD, associate professor of medicine, section chief of clinical research & AI Innovation, and director of data science and machine learning research in the Division of Cardiovascular Diseases and Hypertension at RWJMS. She added, “This becomes an obstacle, requiring setup time that clinicians may not have, and can be uncomfortable for students or patients. Glasses-free 3D technology solves these challenges allowing anyone to experience 3D content instantly – a real benefit for all stakeholders.”

One of the key focus areas is cardiology where 3D imaging plays an important role in visualization, education, surgical planning, and training.

“The ability to interact with lifelike, three-dimensional cardiac images without the constraints of headsets or glasses is a game-changer,” said Dr. Partho Sengupta, Chief of Cardiology in the Division of Cardiovascular Diseases and Hypertension at RWJMS & RWJUH. “This collaboration with Magnetic 3D represents a significant step toward more intuitive and immersive tools that will improve diagnostics, education, and ultimately, patient care.”

Together, researchers, educators, and medical students, at RMJMS and Magnetic 3D will make new tools available to clinicians, powered by Artificial Intelligence.

“We are excited to collaborate with Rutgers and contribute to the next wave of healthcare innovation and the development of holographic educational solutions,” said Thomas Zerega, Founder and CEO of Magnetic 3D. He added, “We imagine a future where glasses-free 3D imaging and holographic AI agents elevate education, enhance communication, and ultimately deliver better patient outcomes across the healthcare system.”

As a result of this collaboration, RWJMS and Magnetic 3D will also work together to secure capital supporting these endeavors. Magnetic 3D previously installed its technology at the Center for Innovation, a joint program of RWJMS and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital an RWJBarnabas Health facility, a teaching hospital where students have access to Magnetic 3D’s glasses-free 3D technology for medical research and innovation.

To learn more about Magnetic 3D’s cutting-edge glass-free 3D displays, go to https://blog.magnetic3d.com/magnetic3d

The VR/AR Association (VRARA) Central Florida Chapter Appoints Julia Black to Board of Advisors

The VR/AR Association (VRARA) Central Florida Chapter Appoints Julia Black to Board of Advisors

The VR/AR Association (VRARA) Central Florida Chapter is pleased to announce the appointment of Julia Black to its Board of Advisors.

Julia brings a wealth of experience from the space industry, including seven years at SpaceX where she served as a Range Coordinator and Launch Director. Her commercial leadership builds on a distinguished 21-year career in the U.S. Air Force, where she began as a Weather Officer and rose to roles such as Assistant Director of Range Operations at Cape Canaveral Air Station and Director of Staff at the 45th Space Wing at Patrick Air Force Base. She later joined Stoke Space as Director of Range Operations and currently serves as Vice President of Advanced Programs at Space Florida.

“The space industry has been the focus of nearly my entire career, and I’m deeply passionate about creating new opportunities for our community,” said Julia. “XR technology has enormous potential to transform product design, operations, and training. The VRARA is the perfect platform to connect XR innovators with the needs of the space sector.”

John Cunningham, President of the VRARA Central Florida Chapter, adds:

“Julia is a respected leader across military, commercial, and state government space initiatives. She understands the intersection of emerging technologies and mission-critical operations. We’re honored to welcome her to our Board and look forward to collaborating on new ways for our members to support and accelerate the space industry through VR and AR.”

Julia’s Linkedin profile can be found here

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-black-64b20998/

Learn more: VR/AR Association (VRARA) Central Florida Chapter

We’re thrilled to announce that Nathan Pettyjohn, President & CEO of the VR/AR Association (#VRARA), will be taking the stage at R-CON: Digital Twins

🚨 Exciting Speaker Alert! 🚨

We’re thrilled to announce that Nathan Pettyjohn, President & CEO of the VR/AR Association (#VRARA), will be taking the stage at R-CON: Digital Twins in Orlando, FL — one of the premier events shaping the future of spatial computing and digital twin technology.

Nathan is a global thought leader driving innovation across enterprise XR, spatial data, and AI. At R-CON, he’ll be joining other top voices to share insights on how immersive technology is transforming how we build, design, and connect our physical and digital worlds.

🗓 R-CON: Digital Twins
📍 Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts – Orlando, FL
📅 Two immersive days of keynotes, tech showcases, and high-level networking

Hosted by the Reality Capture Network (RCN), this event brings together industry innovators from AEC, defense, infrastructure, and smart cities — all focused on unleashing the full potential of digital twins.

💡 With the global digital twin market set to surpass $46 billion by 2031, this event couldn’t come at a better time.

Join us and hear from Nathan Pettyjohn and many other industry leaders including:
🔹 Dr. Michael Grieves (Digital Twin Institute)
🔹 Michael Hotaling (ExxonMobil)
🔹 Kelly Watt (DFW Airport)
🔹 John Brown (General Motors)
🔹 Marc Goldman (Esri)

🎟 Don’t miss your chance to connect with visionaries, experience live demos, and shape the future of digital transformation.

👉 Learn more: https://lnkd.in/g4vZAt2r

#VRARA #RCON #DigitalTwins #XR #ImmersiveTech #SmartCities #Innovation #NathanPettyjohn

The VRARA is pleased to announce that Sascha Goto has been appointed as Operations Director of the VR/AR Association (VRARA) Central Florida Chapter and will join the chapter Advisory Board

The VRARA is pleased to announce that Sascha Goto has been appointed as Operations Director of the VR/AR Association (VRARA) Central Florida Chapter and will join the chapter Advisory Board.  

Sascha has been in the digital technology and XR industry for 25 years and has worked for companies such as McKinsey & Company and Magic Leap. He has held roles in nearly all areas of product management, solutions management and user experience management.  He is truly passionate about the XR industry and helping to develop the XR ecosystem through the VR/AR Association and will be a tremendous asset to the VRARA community.   

According to Sasch Goto “XR is more than a technological evolution: it’s a transformative shift in how we experience learning, work, and connection. Central Florida, with its unique blend of creative industries, simulation expertise, and academic research, is perfectly positioned to lead this change. The VR/AR Association plays a pivotal role by uniting innovators, educators, and businesses across the region to drive collaboration, foster talent, and accelerate real-world XR adoption. Together, we can shape the future!”

John Cunningham, President of the VRARA Central Florida Chapter adds “we are grateful that Sascha has agreed to support our Central Florida Community and the VRARA globally to help us develop our ecosystem and to execute programs as our chapter Operations Director.  He brings a tremendous amount of XR industry and technology knowledge that will benefit our membership. 

Sascha Goto’s Linkedin profile can be found here
https://www.linkedin.com/in/saschagoto/

The VR/AR Association is headed to AWE 2025

🚀 Big news! The VR/AR Association is headed to AWE 2025 in Long Beach from June 10–12, and we’re proud to share that our very own Founder & CEO, Nathan Pettyjohn, has been invited as the Enterprise VIP Program Expert! 🎉

Nathan is a visionary leader in the XR space—Founder of the VR/AR Association, Applied AI Association, and CEO of The Immerse Group—with a mission to empower 80,000+ professionals across 50+ global chapters. From helping Fortune 500s integrate immersive technologies to pioneering the future of work through AI and XR, he’s at the forefront of driving innovation and transformation.

🔥 Catch Nathan at AWE as he supports enterprise leaders with strategic insight into XR adoption, business integration, and scalable growth. His work continues to shape how immersive tech is implemented across industries.

📍If you're attending #AWE2025, don’t miss the chance to connect with Nathan and the VRARA team—this is where the future of enterprise XR takes center stage.

Special DISCOUNT for our VRARA Members!
Email info@thevrara.com to get your tickets to AWE

#VRARA #XR #EnterpriseXR #AWE2025 #SpatialComputing #FutureOfWork #ThoughtLeadership #NathanPettyjohn #ImmersiveTech #VR #AR #AI

Elevating Immersive Learning. Advancing Real-World Impact.

VR/AR Training Committee
Elevating Immersive Learning. Advancing Real-World Impact.

Overview
The VR/AR Training Committee of the VR/AR Association brings together leading minds at the intersection of immersive technology, education, and strategic implementation. Chaired by Joshua Meah, our committee is designed to serve as a high-value resource for members and partners advancing enterprise and institutional training through extended reality.

Our mission is to establish world-class standards, accelerate real-world adoption, and create frameworks for scalable success across sectors including defense, healthcare, workforce development, and education.

Core Program Areas

1. Thought Leadership
We publish periodic whitepapers offering cutting-edge insights into immersive training design, deployment, and measurement. These publications synthesize member contributions, expert commentary, and real-world case studies—providing VRARA members with actionable strategies and authoritative perspectives on the future of XR training.

2. Government Contracting Advisory
As public sector opportunities expand, we provide guidance on leveraging Phase III and sole-source SBIR pathways for XR-based training solutions. Our sessions cover legal methodologies, technology transfer strategies, and how to secure long-term government partners. Through our strategic network, we also facilitate introductions to prospective public buyers and defense partners.

3. XR Training Best Practices & Demonstrations
Every month, one of our two sessions is dedicated to showcasing novel training models and instructional approaches—from gamified simulations to AI-personalized learning environments. We feature guest speakers, live demonstrations, and curated best practices to ensure our members remain at the forefront of effective, measurable XR training.

4. Industry Collaboration and Strategic Networking
Our committee operates as a catalyst for cross-sector collaboration. Whether connecting developers with integrators, or educators with procurement officers, we facilitate the partnerships that turn immersive vision into measurable outcomes.

Joshua Meah
josh@joshmeah.com
Chair of Training Committee

Vivaldi has been Nominated for an AUGGIE AWARD!

Hello World, we ONE Digital Consulting want to share something with U.

 We are deeply moved. Imagine coming home and finding out that #Vivaldi30 – The Immersive Universe of The Four Seasons has been nominated as “Best Education and Training Solution” at the prestigious #AuggieAwards for #AWE2025!

Today, we ask for just one small gesture—from you, our friends, colleagues, partners, and beloved community:
PLEASE! Give us a +1 on the nominations page. It only takes a few seconds—just log in with Google, no account creation needed.

Vote here

Voting closes on May 14, so hurry!!

This nomination isn’t just recognition—it’s a celebration of how music, art, and education can come together to touch hearts around the world.

What began as a dream to bring classical music closer to students and younger generations has grown into an international movement of emotion, wonder, and learning. Thousands of students have already experienced Vivaldi 3.0 in schools, events, and exhibitions across the globe with the High School of Music Reina Sofia and ONE Digital Consulting.

Over the past few years, we’ve built this experience together with the incredible musician Ara Malikian, with passion, dedication, and love—alongside an extraordinary team that believed in the magic of what’s possible.

Every student who listened, every teacher who shared, every family who trusted, and every friend who believed—this story is yours too. You are the soul of this journey.

Let’s keep inspiring. Let’s keep believing in a more human, inclusive, and educated society. And yes—we’ll see you at #AWE this year!

Please share this special moment with your network—your support means more than you know.

This recognition joins 5 other international awards we’ve proudly received in recent months:
• Most Innovative Immersive Experience Tech Company 2024 – Spain, by Global Business Awards
• Finalist for Best XR in Film & Experience of the Year 2024 and Winner of Best Cross-Media Experience 2024, by AIXR XR Awards
• 3 Wins at The Polys Immersive Awards NY: Best Immersive Experience, Best Educational Experience, and Best Entertainment Experience

Together, we’re making the future resonate!

#Vivaldi30 is available on Pico3Enterprise, Pico4Enterprise, and Meta Quest 3.

XRT Lands Marine Corps Contract to Prototype Next-Gen Maintenance Training System

XR Training (XRT), a leading innovator in immersive training solutions for the defense sector, has been awarded an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) to design and deliver a next-generation maintenance training suite prototype for the U.S. Marine Corps’ Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV). 

This award marks a major advancement in XRT’s expanding role in military training modernization and follows the successful fielding of 81 Wave Warrior ACV Driver Training simulators in 2024, which are now integrated into the ACV training curriculum and operational at locations around the world.

Under this new award, XRT will spearhead the development of the ACV Suite of Training Systems (STS) – a fully integrated digital ecosystem comprised of an Electronic Classroom (EC), Diagnostic Task Trainer (DTT), and Part Task Trainer (PTT). Together, this system will accelerate proficiency, reduce risk, and equip Marines with the technical agility demanded by modern amphibious operations.

“This contract is a milestone in how the Corps prepares its ACV Crewmen and Maintainers – not just for the fight today, but for the complex battlefield of tomorrow,” said Neil Levin, CEO and Founder of XRT. “By combining cutting-edge simulation, modular design, and deep subject-matter expertise across our team, we’re creating a training ecosystem that’s scalable, sustainable, and mission-ready from day one.”

XRT’s elite industry team includes:

• Theory Studios – Immersive 3D modeling & virtual environments

• Enludio – Instructional design and digital learning architecture

• Talon Simulations – High-fidelity motion simulation hardware

• Bubo Defense – Interactive defense systems integration

• RedShred – Secure content and data management infrastructure

• Direct Dimensions – Precision 3D scanning and model generation

• Hatch Exhibits – Physical system fabrication and integration

This OTA empowers XRT and its partners to rapidly prototype and test cutting-edge training capabilities, free from the constraints of traditional acquisition cycles. With this flexibility, the Marine Corps can field tailored, scalable training systems that evolve alongside mission needs and platform updates.

XRT’s leadership on this effort reinforces its role as a force multiplier for Marine Corps readiness and innovation. The ACV STS program will ultimately shape how Marines learn, adapt, and maintain the next generation of amphibious combat power.

Want to experience our XR simulators first-hand?

Join XRT April 29 - May 1 at Modern Day Marine 2025, Booth 631, to see our technology in action and connect with the team redefining maintenance training for the digital battlefield.

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ABOUT XRT

Founded in 2019 by Neil Levin, XRT specializes in developing custom, end-to-end immersive training and simulation applications for the defense sector, having built innovative solutions for both the USMC and the Air Force – including the successful 2024 deployment of 81 Wave Warrior simulators for ACV driver training. These XR-based solutions are ideal for learning complex tasks, preparing for combat scenarios, and developing specialized skills that may be difficult, costly, or impractical to replicate in real-world settings. As a small business and client of the UCF Business Incubation Program at Research Park in Orlando, Florida, XRT employs rapid prototyping and strategic industry collaborations to ensure the final solution addresses every project requirement and is delivered on time and within budget. Learn more and connect with us at XRTraining.io.

Ohio University, HTC VIVE and Virtualware partner to accelerate Ohio’s manufacturing economy

The Ohio University Digital Enterprise Collaboratory (DEC) will provide advanced collaboration, engineering and simulation capabilities using immersive technologies.

Ohio University, HTC VIVE, and Virtualware have partnered to launch a new program called the Digital Enterprise Collaboratory (DEC), which will provide infrastructure to power new digital engineering and workforce development programs to support the growing demand for advanced manufacturing in Ohio.
The partnership combines Ohio University’s leadership in engineering education, HTC VIVE’s industry-leading XR hardware and software technologies, and Virtualware’s enterprise XR platform VIROO. The project will provide Ohio University with the technology infrastructure and capabilities needed to accelerate product development, research, and workforce development by enabling real-time collaboration between disparate university, industry, government, and Department of Air Force Research Laboratories (AFRL) members using the latest digital engineering & immersive technologies.

The program will also expand Ohio University’s existing manufacturing training and certification programs to support the growing demand for new factory workers.

“This program represents a bold step forward in immersive digital engineering,” said Scott Miller, associate dean for Industry Partnerships at Ohio University’s Russ College of Engineering and Technology. “By integrating XR technology into our educational and research programs, we are preparing the next generation of engineers to think spatially, act collaboratively, and solve real-world problems. Manufacturing is Ohio’s largest industry sector that is contributing 17.5% of the state’s GDP and we need to prepare our local workforce for the new jobs in advanced manufacturing.”

“HTC VIVE is proud to be part of this initiative that puts immersive technology at the heart of innovation and education,” said Daniel O’Brien, President Americas at HTC VIVE. “With these new labs, Ohio University is positioning itself as a leader in Industry 4.0.”

John Cunningham, President of Virtualware USA adds “The state of Ohio is home to many manufacturers and will soon be home to new advanced technology factories being built by Intel and Anduril, who need an estimated 7,000 new workers. Ohio University has been asked by the State and manufacturing companies to find ways to help accelerate product development using digital engineering methods and to develop workforce development initiatives using the latest technologies. Our VIROO platform integrated with HTC’s XR solutions provides Ohio University with infrastructure that can be used for many different purposes and years to come.”

Ohio University faces a key challenge, enabling engineers, researchers, and end users to collaborate in real time and in 3D across its geographically separated campuses. Athens and Dayton, located two and a half hours apart by car, currently require physical travel for collaboration. While many end users, such as the U.S. Air Force and Intel, are based in Dayton, much of the University's research takes place in Athens. The implementation of the DEC is set to bridge that gap, helping accelerate research and product development.

The DEC infrastructure consists of two new laboratories located at the Athens Campus and at the OHIO facility in Dayton, located within the Digital Transformation Center (DTC). These labs are connected through the VIROO Enterprise XR platform and are equipped with virtual reality equipment and software tools. Users can collaborate, share projects, product prototypes, and even create digital twins in real time, either from within the labs or from remote desktops, classrooms, or homes. The University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) operates the DTC and has partnered with Ohio University to develop and launch the DEC’s Dayton location, furthering the DTC’s mission as a collaborative innovation hub that drives innovation, fuels workforce development, and fosters cross-sector collaboration among academia, industry, and government.

The DEC will officially open on May 5 at the Athens Campus and on May 7 in Dayton. The Dayton DEC opening will be part of the evening event hosted at the DTC during the Dayton Digital Transformation Summit, a regional event focused on innovation and technology in manufacturing and workforce development.

Your Website URL: https://www.virtualwareco.com/news/ohio-university-htc-vive-digital-enterprise-collaboratory/

Uptale & VRDirect Join Forces to Create a Global Leader in Enterprise XR Solutions

Uptale & VRDirect Join Forces to Create a Global Leader in Enterprise XR Solutions

French immersive learning pioneer Uptale and German virtual reality specialist VRdirect today announced that they are joining forces in a strategic alliance. With VRdirect moving to Uptale, the collaboration brings together two early leaders in enterprise XR to create a unified global platform for extended reality (XR) at scale. This partnership combines strong market traction, highly compatible solutions, and a shared mission to make immersive technologies a central pillar of digital transformation in large organizations.

A Shared Vision, One Brand, Global Ambition
VRdirect moving under Uptale.io will represent the most comprehensive and international self- service XR provider available today. With a customer base of over 350 enterprise customers, teams across Europe, North America, Asia, and a combined solution trusted by industry leaders in retail, manufacturing, energy, and professional services. “This alliance is a strong signal to the market. In a rapidly evolving and competitive XR landscape, consolidation is key to building sustainable value - for customers, partners, and the industry at large,” said David Ristagno, CEO of Uptale. “By combining our expertise and reach, we’re not only accelerating our own growth, but also shaping a more mature, scalable, and reliable standard for enterprise XR globally.” Dr. Rolf Illenberger, CEO of VRdirect, added: “This is a move built on shared vision and complementary strengths. Technologically, commercially, and culturally, VRdirect and Uptale are deeply aligned. By moving under the Uptale umbrella, we’re creating a stronger international platform. Capable of meeting the needs of global enterprises even better and driving the next wave of immersive transformation.”

Benefits for Customers
The collaboration brings immediate and long-term value to enterprise clients. Customers will benefit from a unified support structure, even broader international service coverage, and an enhanced feature set – including collaborative learning sessions, ISO-certified security, stronger LMS integration, and AI-powered functionalities. With combined experience and expertise, Uptale will deliver an even broader and more responsive partner experience, while maintaining the intuitive workflows and flexibility clients have come to trust.

Strategic Focus on Growth, Scale, and Global Impact
While both Uptale and VRdirect have built strong reputations in immersive learning, training, and communication, the merger reflects a broader ambition: to create a single, trusted platform that meets the rising demand for scalable, secure, and easy-to-use XR solutions across the enterprise landscape.

The new Uptale organization will focus on:
• International expansion, with operational hubs in Paris, Munich, San Francisco, and Singapore
• Vertical-specific growth strategies, with tailored offerings for sectors such as retail, semiconductor industrials, and Education
• Investment in service excellence, including onboarding, customer success, and global support
• Partner ecosystem development, enabling deep integration with enterprise platforms and digital infrastructure

About Uptale
Uptale is a global leader in Cloud-based Extended Reality (XR) solutions for enterprise Training. Following its strategic integration with VRdirect, Uptale now brings together deep expertise in immersive training and the agility to deploy XR at scale. Headquartered in Paris, with offices inSan Francisco, and Singapore, Uptale supports global organizations in creating impactful immersive content—without technical barriers.

About VRdirect
The Munich-based tech company VRdirect (www.vrdirect.com) is an enterprise-grade, no-code Virtual Reality platform that helps large companies easily create, manage, and share immersive VR content for internal training and communications as well as external sales, marketing, and customer support use cases.