April 22, 2026
The Delivering Innovative Vocational Education through Virtual Reality Technology (DIVE-VRT) program marked a major milestone — the graduation of its inaugural cohort. Family, friends, staff, and instructors joined 14 participants to celebrate their completion of the pilot program and their preparation for careers in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).
DIVE-VRT is a collaborative program led by the University of South Florida’s College of Behavioral and Community Sciences in partnership with VRG Learning Institute, a Tampa-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit specializing in immersive VR education and workforce development. VRG Learning Institute serves as a key co-partner in program delivery, providing VR technology expertise, instructional support, and immersive learning experiences that form the foundation of the DIVE-VRT training model.
A Year That Exceeded Expectations
“This year exceeded our expectations,” said Christine Hugh, MS, co-principal investigator. “Our pilot cohort was diverse, motivated and committed to completing the program.”
Participants ended the yearlong program with certificates of completion, and most earned industry-recognized credentials. Instructor Amy Gallaher explained what those credentials mean for graduates entering the workforce.
“The certifications demonstrate entry-level knowledge, jobsite safety and legal compliance, making these candidates industry-ready,” she said.
Learning Through Virtual Reality and AI
The DIVE-VRT program trains youth and adults with lifelong and acquired disabilities for skilled trades careers using virtual reality technology. Participants used artificial intelligence and virtual reality to learn HVAC skills, while also receiving instruction in interviewing and resume writing, along with job placement support. VRG Learning Institute’s immersive VR platform and instructional team played a central role in delivering these hands-on learning experiences throughout the program.
Gallaher noted that the workforce readiness component proved just as impactful as the technical training.
“In workforce readiness, much of the growth shows up in small but meaningful ways, such as speaking up more and gaining confidence as they begin to envision themselves working in the HVAC field,” she said.
Real Outcomes for Real People
Co-principal investigator Christine Hugh shared that it is encouraging to see graduates motivated and actively engaged with job coaches. One graduate has already secured employment, while others are advancing through interviews for union-paid HVAC apprenticeships.
Graduate Chase Bernard credited the staff for the cohort’s success.
“All of the staff here have done an amazing job in how they give the material, and they help you any way they can. They don’t leave anyone behind.”
What’s Next for DIVE-VRT
The program plans to welcome a second cohort this fall, focused on building maintenance. Participants will once again benefit from the combined expertise of USF and VRG Learning Institute, using virtual reality technology and earning the opportunity to gain industry-recognized credentials.
DIVE-VRT will also introduce its first youth cohort in partnership with Hillsborough County Public Schools. High school juniors and seniors will be able to enroll in the building maintenance program as a credit-earning course during the school day, with the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials alongside their peers.
Applications Are Now Open
Applications for the next cohort are open now. The deadline to apply is July 1, 2026.
Apply and learn more at: dive-vrt.org
The contents of this article were developed under grant number H421F240044 from the U.S. Department of Education. However, those contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the Department of Education, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government. (Authority: 20 U.S.C. §§ 1221e-3 and 3474)