XR Hub powers pathways for future trades with immersive learning

By simulating real-world environments, the XR Hubs are giving aspiring tradespeople the opportunity to step into realistic job scenarios aimed at enhancing their learning experience before they even arrive on-site and work with equipment or high-risk environments.

Jonathan Todd, TAFE Queensland Director, Educational Strategy and Support Services, said the technology is transforming how students connect classroom learning with real career outcomes.

“We’re using immersive technologies to bridge the gap between theory and practice, giving students the opportunity to experience real trade scenarios in a safe and controlled environment,” Jonathan said.

Across a range of disciplines, XR scenarios mirror industry challenges that allows students to test their skills, respond to problems and gain exposure to workplace environments early in their training.

“It’s about creating job-ready graduates who have already experienced what the workplace looks and feels like before they arrive,” Mr Todd said.

The XR Hubs build on a strong foundation at TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech, where virtual reality has been used for high-risk safety training over the past six years. Now, with XR Hubs in operation at Acacia Ridge, Alexandra Hills, Bracken Ridge and Eagle Farm campuses, VR technology is being used weekly within the Foundation Program to support students at the very start of their trade journey.

Educational Team Leader, Foundation Program, Steven Onn, said the program is already playing a key role in developing future apprentices.

“Around 35 per cent of all apprentices at SkillsTech come through the Foundation Program as part of their apprenticeship,” Steven said.

For students considering a trade or technical career, this approach provides a valuable head start that is helping them build confidence and better understand where their skills can take them.

The XR Hubs also support teaching teams by delivering consistent, high-quality training experiences that can be easily integrated into qualifications, ensuring students across campuses benefit from the same exposure to industry-relevant scenarios. 

“Hands-on learning will always be at the core of what we do, but XR allows us to extend those experiences further,” Jonathan said.

“It gives students another layer of exposure, so when they’re on site or in a workshop, they’re better prepared and more confident.”

Importantly, the technology complements practical training and enhances pathways into apprenticeships by helping students develop foundational skills and decision-making ability that will guide approaches to situations in the workplace.

“Students can explore different pathways and simulated scenarios in their chosen trade,” Jonathan said.

“That insight can make a real difference when faced with challenges in further training in their apprenticeship, or situations in the workplace.”

The rollout of XR technology forms part of TAFE Queensland’s broader commitment to future-focused training to ensure qualifications continue aligning with industry needs while giving students the tools to succeed in evolving workplaces.

“We’re preparing students not just for the jobs of today, but for the careers of the future,” Jonathan said.

“That means embracing innovation and making sure our training environments reflect what’s happening in industry.”

As immersive learning continues to expand, the XR Hubs are opening new doors for students to engage with trade training in a more interactive and accessible way that supports stronger career outcomes and clearer pathways into employment.

Whether starting out, upskilling or exploring a new direction, students can gain real insight into their chosen field by building the confidence to take the next step and begin their trade journey with TAFE Queensland.