Twelve Illinois community colleges have received grants to implement virtual reality (VR) training in recruiting and workforce training programs.
The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) has awarded $766,000 to the community colleges to introduce VR equipment into existing Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs statewide.
Colleges will be able to buy VR hardware and software to recruit and teach students in a variety of industrial workforce training programs, including healthcare, criminal justice, manufacturing and HVAC. Individual grant amounts were awarded based on college program and equipment needs.
Carl Sandburg College in Galesburg will receive $89,509 to bring VR to their recruitment and welding programs.
“The Illinois Community College System is constantly looking to stay at the forefront of workforce development,” said ICCB Executive Director Brian Durham. “This funding will not only help recruit students who want access to the latest technology but also provide new cutting-edge training opportunities to better position them for success in their chosen career fields.”
“This funding brings new perspectives to community colleges around the state through VR technologies that will enhance and explore new avenues of hands-on learning in our schools,” said bill sponsor and State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes (D-Chicago).
“VR programs have been utilized in many industries and have so much potential for growth in the future that implementing these programs in our community college system can give Illinois students a competitive advantage in their education and beyond.”
