About VRG Learning Institute | Virtual Reality Education

Revolutionizing Education Through Immersive Technology: Empowering the Next Generation

Whether you’re a student or someone specializing in the trade industry looking to enhance your skills, an employer seeking to hire qualified graduates, or a donor interested in supporting our mission, VRG Learning Institute offers numerous ways to get involved. Together, we can shape the future of education and workforce development.

At VRG Learning Institute, we are on a mission to revolutionize vocational and educational training through the power of virtual reality. Our immersive programs provide hands-on learning experiences that prepare students of all abilities for industry-recognized certifications and rewarding careers

But we can’t do it alone. Your support helps us expand access to cutting-edge VR training, equip students with essential skills and and help shape what’s next for workforce development. Whether you’re a donor, partner, or advocate, your contribution makes a direct impact on the lives of students striving for success.

We also partner with employers looking to train, certify, or skill up their workforce using innovative VR simulations. Our programs provide employees with practical, real-world training in a risk-free environment, helping businesses stay ahead with a well-prepared, highly skilled team.

Join us in shaping the future of education and workforce development. Together, we can empower individuals, build careers, and change lives—one VR experience at a time.

VRG Learning Institute

Our Journey in Revolutionizing Learning

At VRG Learning Institute, we are committed to transforming education by bringing immersive virtual reality learning to all communities. Through innovative VR technology, we provide students with engaging, hands-on experiences in subjects like mathematics, physics, geography, and travel & tourism, making learning more interactive and impactful.

To ensure lasting change, we also train educators to effectively integrate VR into their classrooms, equipping them with the skills and resources needed to administer high-quality educational programs. By empowering teachers, we extend the reach of immersive learning, helping students develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of complex subjects.

Our mission is to bridge educational gaps, inspire a love for learning, and create equal opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Together, we are shaping the future of education—one VR experience at a time.

Our Mission: Expanding Educational Opportunities with VR

At VRG Learning Institute, we believe in the power of virtual reality to revolutionize education and career training for individuals of all abilities. Our mission is to provide immersive, hands-on VR training that equips students with the technical expertise, soft skills, and confidence needed to thrive in high-demand industries.

Through cutting-edge VR simulations, expert-led instruction, and a supportive learning environment, we prepare students to earn industry-recognized certifications, unlocking pathways to meaningful careers. At VRG Learning Institute, we are not just training the workforce of tomorrow—we are empowering individuals to achieve their full potential today

Our Vision: Leading the Future of Learning

Our vision at VRG Learning Institute is to become a global leader in immersive education, where innovative virtual reality technology transforms the way individuals learn, grow, and develop professional skills. We aim to create a world where education is accessible, engaging, and practical for all learners, empowering them to pursue fulfilling careers in high-demand industries.

By fostering strategic partnerships, delivering cutting-edge programs, and continuously advancing the learning experience, we envision building a future where our students not only achieve their educational goals but thrive in their professional journeys. Through our efforts, we strive to close the skills gap, elevate workforce readiness, and inspire lifelong learning in communities everywhere.

Our partnership with USF

Empowering Education Through the DIVE-VRT Program in Partnership with Launch at USF

Transforming Vocational Training with the DIVE-VRT Program in collaboration with Launch at USF, driving innovation in career-ready education.

About the Partnership

The DIVE-VRT Program is powered through a partnership with Launch at USF and funded by the Disability Innovation Workforce Grant. This program provides innovative vocational education pathways and hands-on training opportunities for learners entering high-demand industries.

The Impact

This strategic partnership enables us to deliver VR-based education that equips students with hands-on skills and certifications in high-demand fields such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing. Our combined efforts are shaping a future-ready workforce, prepared to meet the needs of modern industries.

Advancing Workforce Development with Launch at USF

Through Launch at USF, we develop groundbreaking training programs that set new standards in vocational education. Together, we ensure learners receive cutting-edge, industry-relevant skills that bridge the gap between education and employment.

Meet the Visionaries Behind VRG Learning Institute

Larry Tartaglino

Co-Founder & Co-Owner, VRG Learning Institute

Larry Tartaglino brings over three decades of expertise in operational and management roles within the healthcare revenue cycle industry. Throughout his career, Larry has demonstrated a knack for innovation, strategic leadership, and fostering growth in complex industries. In 2021, he expanded his professional pursuits into an entirely new arena as one of the three co-founders of Tampa’s first all-virtual reality venue, VR Galaxy Lounge.

Fueled by a lifelong passion for gaming and cutting-edge technology, Larry and his partners saw an opportunity to bring immersive entertainment to the community. VR Galaxy Lounge quickly became a hub for state-of-the-art virtual reality experiences, offering everything from multiplayer adventures to unique interactive games designed to captivate audiences of all ages.

Recognizing the transformative potential of virtual reality beyond entertainment, Larry and his team envisioned a greater purpose. This vision led to the creation of the VRG Learning Institute, a nonprofit organization dedicated to leveraging virtual reality for education and workforce development. Partnering with renowned organizations like C.A.R.D. and Launch, the team developed the D.I.V.E. (Delivering Innovative Vocational Education) program.

Larry’s innovative leadership continues to push boundaries, blending technology, education, and community impact to create opportunities for individuals to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Tony Denham

Co-Founder & Co-Owner, VRG Learning Institute

Anthony Denham is a highly skilled and motivated IT professional with over 15 years of global experience in Information Security, networking and infrastructure, process design, and technical support. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the ability to undertake analysis and engineering of complex projects while implementing innovative new solutions.

A confident communicator, Anthony excels in leading his teams in both English and German languages. Currently, he holds a pivotal role at Citi where he plays a crucial part in analyzing existing and future business systems, reviewing security architectures, and developing engineering solutions that integrate information security requirements to proactively protect information. His responsibilities include performing audit and security compliance checks, conducting network penetration testing, vulnerability scans, and other configuration analysis.

Anthony’s expertise extends to developing threat models and conducting security risk assessments, where he recommends mitigations and countermeasures to address risks, vulnerabilities, and threats. Additionally, he reviews and validates security documentation, ensuring adherence to system security requirements definition and System Security Plans.

Outside of his corporate endeavors, Anthony is also the owner and co-founder of VRGLI, a nonprofit business dedicated to leveraging VR technology to improve employment within Hillsborough County. Through VR vocational training and education programs, Anthony and his team aim to empower young adults, including those with disabilities, by providing them with valuable skills and opportunities for growth. Anthony’s commitment to both his professional career and philanthropic initiatives highlights his dedication to making a positive impact in his community and beyond.

Joe Fratto

Co-Founder & Co-Owner, VRG Learning Institute

Joe Fratto is a seasoned entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in the pool service and repair industry. Since 2011, Joe has operated his own pool service business, building a reputation for excellence and reliability in Pinellas County for 13 years. In 2022, Joe expanded his entrepreneurial ventures by diving further into the immersive world of virtual reality gaming. With the launch of VR Galaxy Lounge, Joe and his two partners introduced an innovative and unique entertainment concept to the greater Tampa Bay area, captivating enthusiasts and newcomers alike with cutting-edge VR experiences.

Driven by a passion for education and community impact, Joe is a co-founder of VRGLI, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to leveraging virtual reality technology for educational assistance, elevation, and expansion. Through VRGLI, the team aims to bridge the gap between traditional learning and modern technology, providing students and career-driven individuals with immersive and engaging educational experiences. With a commitment to excellence, innovation, and community empowerment, Joe continues to make strides in both business and nonprofit sectors, leaving a lasting impact on the greater Tampa Bay area and beyond.

Our Impact and Values

We envision a world where education is accessible to all, regardless of background or location, and where every learner can achieve their full potential through immersive, experiential learning. Our programs are designed not just to teach, but to inspire and empower individuals to pursue rewarding careers in high-demand industries.

Supportive Learning Environment

We are committed to fostering a welcoming space where all learners, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or challenges, feel empowered and supported to achieve their goals.

Empowerment

We strive to empower students through education, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in their personal and professional lives.

Innovation

We embrace innovative technologies and teaching methods, continually seeking new ways to enhance learning experiences and outcomes.

Collaboration

We foster collaboration among students, educators, and community partners to build a supportive network that enriches the learning experience.

Integrity

We uphold the highest standards of integrity in all our interactions, ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical practices.

Adaptability

We recognize the needs of our students and adapt our programs and approaches to provide personalized learning experiences that meet those needs.

Excellence

We are committed to excellence in education, continually striving to improve our programs and services to provide the highest quality of training and support.

Lifelong Learning

We encourage a mindset of lifelong learning, inspiring students to seek continuous personal and professional development.

Community Engagement

We are dedicated to engaging with our community, building partnerships that enhance our programs and provide additional resources and opportunities for our students.

Support Our Mission

At VRG Learning Institute, our mission is to provide every learner with the opportunity to thrive by offering immersive, hands-on education through innovative virtual reality technology. We are dedicated to creating an environment where all students—regardless of background—can develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in high-demand industries.

By equipping learners with industry-recognized certifications, soft skills, and practical experience, we prepare them to take on rewarding careers with confidence. We also work closely with educators, empowering them to deliver dynamic, impactful programs that inspire students to reach their full potential.

Through our work, we aim to bridge educational gaps, foster career readiness, and promote lifelong learning, helping students and young adults excel in both their professional journeys and personal growth.

501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization • DIVE-VRT Program in partnership with Launch at USF