Skillveri, a global leader in VR & MR based skill training, is thrilled to announce its participation at the Bring Back the Trades Maine Skills Expo to host a premier Virtual Reality (VR) Welding Competition. The event, taking place in South Portland on May 19, 2026, offers students a unique platform to showcase their technical prowess while competing for a transformative prize for their educational institution.

Utilizing Skillveri’s industry-leading multi-skill simulation software, students will represent their respective schools in a virtual welding arena. The student who achieves the top score will win a Skillveri VR Welding Software package for their school, valued at $1,500. This state-of-the-art technology allows schools to provide students with high-fidelity, eco-friendly training that helps reduce material costs.

Revolutionizing Trade Education with Mixed Reality (MR)

Skillveri’s platform goes beyond traditional VR. By integrating Mixed Reality (MR), virtual objects blend seamlessly with the user’s real-world environment. This "Seamless Environmental Integration" ensures:

• Enhanced Spatial Awareness: Learners stay connected to their physical surroundings.
• Reduced Discomfort: Minimized fatigue and disorientation compared to traditional VR.
• Unmatched Accessibility: Visual and sign-based guidance remains visible through the headset, making training accessible for individuals with auditory limitations.
• Real equipment, Seamless integration: Industry grade welding torches and spray nozzles integrate with the VR system for a highly realistic training experience. 

“We are proud to support the mission of Bring Back the Trades,” said Skillveri Vice President Atul Jagadish. “With over 300 units deployed across 100+ U.S. institutes, we’ve seen firsthand how our analytics-driven skill training creates industry-ready professionals. This competition is about more than just a prize; it’s about empowering the next generation of Maine’s workforce with the best tools available.

VR and MR in the trades are expanding rapidly in the United States. Rising material costs, an increase in projected skilled labor shortages, and the need for scalable training has led large enterprises, trade unions, and schools to invest in immersive, simulation-driven learning to complement hands-on learning.

“The trades today are nothing like they were 50 years ago,” said Steve Turner, Founder and CEO of Bring Back the Trades. ““By adopting cutting-edge technology, the industry is creating new pathways for employee growth. It’s important for students to see that modern trades are tech-driven. We are particularly excited about VR and XR, as these immersive tools allow more students than ever to explore career paths.” 

Official Competition Terms & Conditions

Participation is open to ticketed students attending the Bring Back the Trades Skills Expo on May 19, 2026. The prize consists of Skillveri VR Welding Software valued at $1,500 to be provided to an affiliated public school only; there is no cash equivalent, trade, or substitute offered. Can be used with any VR headset. XR tools not included. Skillveri and Bring Back the Trades reserve the right to verify student enrollment and school eligibility. By participating, contestants agree that Skillveri, Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) and Bring Back the Trades are not liable for any technical disruptions or personal injury during the simulation. Skillveri reserves the right to final adjudication of scores based on the simulator’s internal analytics. Additional prizes may be awarded. Other terms and conditions may apply.