REVOLUTIONIZING
Aerospace Workforce Training
By Nikki Malcom — Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance
Advancements in virtual reality ( VR ) technologies have created exciting opportunities to transform the way workforce training is accomplished . A VR paint simulator , developed by the University of Northern Iowa and now sold by VirtualPaint Products LLC , is such an example . Designed to reduce waste and environmental impact , the advanced simulation software is providing an interactive solution to the challenge of training aerospace painters .
Skills Inc ., one of the largest aerospace suppliers in Washington State , has implemented the VirtualPaint simulation software with associated hardware and is having great success . It has expanded their painting capacity , reduced material cost and decreased environmental impact .
Nikki Malcom Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance http :// pnaa . net
PACIFIC NORTHWEST AEROSPACE ALLIANCE
Organized as a 501 ( c )( 3 ) nonprofit , Skills Inc . is a self-funding social enterprise with a mission to expand employment of persons with disabilities . Sixty percent of its 300-person workforce has a disability . Prior to the pandemic , the organization employed over 600 people . In its 57th year of operation , Skills Inc . actively supports 50-plus aerospace customers . In addition to being a highly respected member of the aerospace supply chain , they partner with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and local school districts to offer a variety of adult and high school vocational programs . Located in Auburn , Washington , Skills Inc . focuses on creating a culture that is based on inclusion and shared success .
48 NORTHWEST AEROSPACE NEWS