We’re so proud to share Chase Bernard’s story, recently featured in USF Magazine — a story that captures exactly why DIVE-VRT exists.
At 21, Chase was working minimum wage at a fast-food restaurant. He knew he was capable of more — he just needed a path forward. That path came through DIVE-VRT (Delivering Innovative Vocational Education through Virtual Reality Technology), a program using immersive VR to train youth and adults with disabilities for high-demand skilled trades, at no cost to participants.
Chase joined the very first DIVE-VRT cohort in fall 2025, learning HVAC systems through virtual reality simulation alongside 14 other participants. He earned three industry-recognized certifications, and just months after completing the program, he was hired as a refrigeration technician trainee with Tampa Kitchen Equipment.
“This program helped my confidence — talking to customers, finding the issue and fixing the system,” Chase shared. “The skills I have gained will help me in the long run.”
A Partnership Built to Change Lives
DIVE-VRT is a five-year, $9.9M U.S. Department of Education grant-funded program (Grant Number H421F240044), built in partnership between VRG Learning Institute and USF’s Department of Child and Family Studies, led by Dr. Tammy Jorgensen-Smith and Christine Hugh. Together with USF’s Advanced Visualization Center and LAUNCH USF, we’re using immersive VR technology to open doors to skilled trades careers for youth and adults with disabilities.
Looking Ahead
As we prepare to welcome our next cohort this fall — this time focused on building maintenance — stories like Chase’s remind us exactly why this work matters.
His advice for the incoming class? “Show up every day. Have the commitment and the dedication, and you will succeed.”
📖 Read Chase’s full story in USF Magazine: usfalumni.org
DIVE-VRT is funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Grant Number H421F240044.