Digital sparks fly as Forth Valley College brings virtual welding to the classroom
Augmented reality technology is giving the next generation of tradespeople a head start in the industry, years before they would previously have had the chance.
Forth Valley College has introduced five Soldamatic augmented reality welding machines as part of its new Skills Transition Centre (STC), allowing welding demonstrations to be taken directly into classrooms.
The kit means pupils are now introduced to welding in fourth year at school, something that previously had to wait until an apprenticeship had begun.
As well as opening the trade to younger learners, the technology increases practice time for apprentices while cutting resources needed during training sessions.
Rosyth-based shipbuilding multinational Babcock, which sends its welding apprentices to Forth Valley for training, has reported strong progress from those using the new equipment.
Alison Miller from Babcock International Group said: “We have definitely seen quicker progress from our apprentices using the new virtual equipment than previous intakes.
"They are further ahead at the end of their first academic year than their colleagues who are a year above them due to the increased time they spend actually on the job.”
The virtual technology has allowed FVC to develop a bespoke training manual, that includes Babcock’s industrial training method, which helps apprentices to learn the type of welds needed during company projects.
Part of the Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal, a transformative collaboration between the UK and Scottish Governments, Falkirk Council and local partners, the STC has been designed to drive innovation and help reskill and upskill the workforce.
For more information visit Forth Valley College website.