HALETHORPE, Md. — Vehicles for Change, a charity that focuses on car donation and vocational training services for individuals with economic hardship, has announced an “Innovating the Future” virtual symposium on June 18, focusing on the role of virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) in workforce development.

Industry experts will discuss the potential of VR and AI to bridge the significant skills gap in the U.S., where an estimated 750,000 skilled jobs are projected to remain unfilled in 2024. The symposium will highlight VFC’s Virtual Reality Automotive Training Program, the first of its kind in the nation. This initiative is designed to reshape training methods and bolster workforce development across various industries.

Key speakers and sessions include:

• Beth Murray (global lead, nonprofit, Meta Reality Labs): A leader in organizational culture and communication, she collaborates to develop tools empowering communities worldwide.
• Craig Frehlich (VR consultant): An expert in educational technology, VR, and instructional design, he has established VR labs in schools and authored “Immersive Learning” in 2020.
• Geoff Crawford (vice president of VFC-VR): A community advocate, he has pioneered integrating VR training within prisons and schools, impacting community growth significantly.
• Chris Verret (president and CTO, HTX Labs): With more than 20 years in enterprise software design, he leads HTX Labs’ development of VR training systems, including for the U.S. Air Force.
• Todd Marks (founder and CEO, Mindgrub Technologies): Renowned for transforming Mindgrub into a tech industry leader, he collaborates with clients like NASA and innovates in virtual reality.
• Lucas Levine (chief commercial officer, Future Fit AI): He helps leaders leverage emergent technology to connect talent to opportunity, focusing on human capital development.
• Bianca Jackson (VR entrepreneur): founder of BrickRose Exchange, she has had an impact on more than 5,000 individuals through her event production company in the metaverse.
• Laurie Bussmann (chief of staff, Orijin): She brings insights that promise to enrich discussions and understanding.

“Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence aren’t just trends; they’re powerful tools for every sector,” said Vehicles for Change President and CEO Marty Schwartz. “Whether you’re in nonprofits or workforce development, integrating these technologies isn’t just smart; it’s crucial for maximizing social impact and scaling efficiently. In today’s world, embracing VR and AI isn’t just an option; it’s a strategic move for any organization aiming to make a difference and grow sustainably.”

Tickets for the event, which runs from 12-4 p.m., June 18, can be reserved here.

See also:

• AI-powered solutions create value, a few challenges, for retail
• Overshadowed by AI, the Metaverse continues its quiet but impactful growth | Bill McLoughlin

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