The program uses state-of-the-art virtual reality goggles, providing immersive, hands-on training experiences and allowing apprentices to prepare for real-world job-site conditions.

Bordentown, NJ – The Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers of New Jersey (BACNJ) are proud to announce a new initiative that integrates virtual reality into workforce training. BACNJ just launched a program that uses state-of-the-art virtual reality goggles to provide immersive, hands-on training experiences, allowing apprentices and prospective students to safely practice complex skills, build confidence, and prepare for real-world job-site conditions.

“Virtual reality offers a safer, more efficient way to train the next generation of bricklayers while helping us better connect with younger workers,” said John Capo, Director, BACNJ. “This new training model represents a major step forward for our industry and has the potential to transform how we develop skilled professionals.”

This initiative aims to transform how skilled workers are trained for safety-critical and technically demanding jobs while upholding the union's longstanding commitment to craftsmanship and tradition. By combining immersive virtual reality with real-time AI feedback, trainees can refine their skills in a safe, controlled environment without risk.

When students put on the goggles designed by the Department of Defense Contractor Envision Innovative Solutions, they are immediately transported into a fully immersive, brick-by-brick simulated jobsite experience, using handheld tools that mirror real-world equipment to practice techniques and procedures. This allows them to learn in a deeply engaging and meaningful way, building muscle memory and situational awareness. The technology also allows apprentices to experience scenarios that were previously inaccessible, giving them the opportunity to practice complex tasks and build confidence before ever stepping onto a scaffold.

“This marks an exciting development in our work over the past year with the Bricklayers union to integrate virtual reality into training,” said Christopher J. Nagy, Ed.D., M.A., C.A.P.P., NAGY Education Group. “This technology is important to the Bricklayers’ training program because it helps to assess apprentice candidates’ hand-eye coordination and their ability to work with heights, setting a new standard for how we prepare the next generation of skilled workers.”

The construction industry is facing a notable shortage of skilled tradespeople, with about 40% of the workforce over 45 and only about 9% new workers under the age of 25. Meanwhile, demand for trades workers is rising due to significant infrastructure investments, putting increasing pressure on apprenticeship programs to produce job-ready candidates swiftly, according to the NAGY Education Group.

BACNJ continues to exemplify high standards in training, safety, and career development. This new XR/AI initiative enhances this commitment by embracing innovative learning approaches and appealing to younger audiences.