Carrier Collaborates with Interplay Learning to Provide Innovative Virtual Reality Training Modules

To further its goal of providing cutting-edge training materials for dealers and distributors, Carrier will be working with Interplay Learning to create custom virtual reality (VR) training modules. The modules will feature product-specific content exclusive to Carrier and its network of dealers and distributors. Plus, Carrier users will also gain access to Interplay’s growing catalog featuring more than 100 hours of training. Carrier, a world leader in high-technology heating, air conditioning and refrigeration solutions, is a part of Carrier, a leading global provider of innovative HVAC, refrigeration, fire, security and building automation technologies.

These new VR modules will allow Carrier dealers and distributors to train on complex concepts virtually, using realistic, “hands-on” practice. In addition, the custom Carrier modules enable the use of brand-specific equipment allowing students to “work on” the actual Carrier® equipment that they’ll encounter in the field. This virtual space also supports providing dealers and distributors with advance access to new equipment before it reaches consumers, so they can be better prepared to work with new offerings.

By offering training in new and innovative ways, like VR, it supports Carrier’s efforts to address the skills gap that exists in the HVAC industry. The training is more accessible and modern, to help attract and retain a new and emerging workforce.

“Carrier is committed to offering product-specific, innovative training resources to dealers and distributors,” said Holly Rhodes, senior manager, Training, Residential HVAC, Carrier. “We’re pleased to be working with Interplay as their exciting, new training modules should prove to be a game changer for Carrier technicians, as well as help attract and educate potential technicians about the industry.”

Another advantage for Carrier dealers and distributors is that these resources can be acquired and deployed almost anywhere. The fact that dealers and distributors do not have to go to a training center or specific location to learn should dramatically increase the adoption and utilization of these modules. Course materials are accessible by desktop, laptop or VR-headset and provide an immersive learning experience for engagement and field-like experience.

“Interplay is proud to align with Carrier, a company with a reputation for industry-leading training,” said Doug Donovan, CEO, Interplay Learning. “Interplay offers an expertise in simulation—we’ve trained more than 70,000 students and professionals with our simulation products. It’s been long-proven in the medical, aviation and military industries, that simulation training better prepares professionals for real-world experiences.”

For more information, please visit https://www.carrier.com/residential/en/us/.

About Carrier
Founded by the inventor of modern air conditioning, Carrier is a world leader in high-technology heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions. Carrier experts provide sustainable solutions, integrating energy-efficient products, building controls and energy services for residential, commercial, retail, transport and food service customers. Carrier’s HVAC business is a part of Carrier, a leading global provider of innovative HVAC, refrigeration, fire, security and building automation technologies and a unit of United Technologies Corp. For more information, visit www.carrier.com or follow @Carrier on Twitter.

A rendering of a Carrier heat pump that participants will “work on” in the new VR training modules.

A scene from an indoor equipment VR training module instructing the participant how to check if the inducer is running.