Why Mining, Energy, and Industrial Companies Should Invest in Virtual Reality in 2025

In 2025, investing in immersive training is not just an innovative option but a strategic necessity. Industries across all sectors will face significant challenges due to an aging workforce and the difficulty of attracting and training new talent. Below, we explore the key reasons why this investment can transform operations and maximize return on investment (ROI) next year.

In a world where technology advances by leaps and bounds, immersive technologies like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) emerge as innovative solutions to address challenges across all sectors, offering benefits that can transform training and improve operational efficiency. Immersive training allows for the simulation of complex and hazardous environments without the associated risks, reducing material costs and minimizing accidents and fatalities. In the mining industry, workers can practice procedures in virtual mines, avoiding accidents and reducing the need for costly training equipment. In the renewable energy industry, technicians can learn to handle and maintain electrical equipment or solar panels in a controlled environment with 100% immersion and focus on the tasks at hand.

The Challenge of Attracting New Talent

In Latin America and the Caribbean, the proportion of people over 65 is expected to double by 2050. This demographic shift presents unique challenges for the mining and renewable energy industries, where a better way to preserve and transmit the experience and knowledge of veteran workers is needed. At the same time, the competition to attract young talent is fierce, and traditional industries often struggle to compete with more modern and technological sectors. VR offers an attractive and modern form of training that can appeal to young professionals. Additionally, it allows for the training and transmission of knowledge to new employees in a safe and controlled environment, reducing the time and costs associated with traditional training.

A Growing Industry

Projections indicate that the adoption of immersive technologies like VR will continue to grow. According to a report by Mordor Intelligence, the VR market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 24.7% between 2024 and 2029. This growth is driven by the need for innovative solutions for training and skill development in various industries.

In light of this reality, companies like Meta, Apple, HTC, and Pico are strengthening the development and deployment of immersive technologies. Meta, for example, has launched its Horizon Workrooms platform, which allows for collaboration and training in virtual environments. Pico and HTC are developing advanced VR devices that offer more immersive and realistic experiences. Apple, for its part, is betting heavily on its mixed reality device, Apple Vision Pro, for businesses and end consumers.

There is a great opportunity in the region to lead this technology and adapt it

Several pioneering companies are adopting VR to improve their training programs. Codelco, the world’s largest copper company, has implemented VR simulations to train its workers in safety procedures and heavy machinery operation. Petrobras, the Brazilian oil company, is using VR to train its employees in offshore platform management, reducing risks and costs.

Together with Yoy Simulators, Enaex has also implemented virtual reality systems and web simulations that allow their teams to train in environments that simulate real operations. With this technology, the operator can practice in a controlled environment and thus develop their skills, obtaining real and reliable data on their performance.

Internationally, UPS is using VR to train its truck drivers in adverse situations, improving safety and efficiency. BP has implemented virtual simulations to train its teams in emergency management at refineries. Additionally, PwC has integrated VR into its training strategy to develop both technical and soft skills in its employees. These investments reflect a growing trend towards the adoption of immersive technologies to improve training and skill development.

Recommendations for Adopting Virtual Reality Training

Virtual reality training should be implemented gradually, so you should start as soon as possible by introducing this technology to teams and their managers! Begin with simple immersive experiences for onboarding or training in the use of fire extinguishers or everyday tasks. Then gradually progress to simulators for complex tasks and equipment operation.

Through the three existing immersive technologies, ad hoc training experiences can be created for each operation and culture.

Conclusion

Virtual reality presents itself as a powerful tool for training in the mining and renewable energy industries. Its ability to improve efficiency, reduce costs, increase knowledge retention, and offer customized solutions makes it a strategic investment for 2025. Managers and decision-makers who bet on this technology will not only optimize their operations but also position their companies as leaders in innovation and sustainability.
Are you ready to take the next step towards the future of virtual reality training?