Immersive training accelerates technician readiness

Interplay Learning has released its 2025 State of Skilled Trades Training report, offering new data on how digital and simulation-based learning is reshaping workforce development across the mechanical, electrical, HVAC, plumbing and industrial trades. The research points to faster technician ramp-up times, higher retention and improved job satisfaction as contractors continue to navigate chronic labor shortages.

Photo: Interplay Learning

According to the report, nearly 70 per cent of surveyed companies say they are preparing technicians more quickly with immersive learning tools, trimming an average of 4.3 months off traditional onboarding timelines.

More than two thirds of employers reported improved ability to train technicians efficiently after adopting Interplay Learning’s platform, citing both readiness and productivity gains.

The findings also address a growing challenge for craft workers: limited time for on-the-job training. Interplay’s usage data shows an 83 % year-over-year increase in meaningful training time during the first quarter of 2025, driven by flexible, device-based course delivery. Retention also improved, with more than half of workers indicating they are more likely to stay in their current roles after using digital learning tools.

Doug Donovan, Interplay Learning founder and CEO, said the results reinforce how simulation-based training supports both workforce needs and business performance.

“Digital and simulation-based training can close the gap between the urgent need for skilled workers and the time it traditionally takes to develop them,” said Donovan. “When companies modernize their training, they’re not just improving workforce readiness – they’re accelerating their own profitability.”

The report also highlights the preferences of younger workers, noting that Gen Z and millennial technicians adapt more quickly to immersive and self-paced content. Interplay says aligning training delivery with digital-native learning styles will be essential for recruiting and retaining the next generation of skilled workers.

The full 2025 State of Skilled Trades Training report is available from Interplay Learning.