Funding Opportunity: Technology to Market 2
SunShot Subprogram: Technology to Market
Location: Del Mar, CA
SunShot Award Amount: $1,250,000
Awardee Cost Share: $1,250,000

This project develops the first 3D, interactive, training simulation tool for solar installers and employees. Through this training platform, installers will improve quality control, reduce construction costs from mistakes, and provide a better experience for their employees. These gaming-quality simulations immerse the trainee in a life-like learning environment and are supported by an intelligent system of learning that is both scalable and practical in application.

Approach

The project team will build out a series of simulation-based trainings and develop a platform of tools dedicated to helping solar companies onboard and train new employees. This type of training mimics learning that has been proven effective in the military, medical, and aviation industries. Interplay will be working directly with solar manufacturers needing to scale pivotal trainings across the solar market.

Innovation

The platform will reduce training costs and drive employee productivity while helping to addresses the manpower bottlenecks that have constrained solar industry growth over the last several years. This tool will reduce the soft costs associated with acclimating new hires, increase the skill levels of current installers, and increase employee retention, paving the path to sustainable reduction of workforce-related soft costs.