Virtual Reality Supports Belgian HVAC Training

Students in Belgium are now using virtual reality to learn heat pump installation skills in schools without access to costly physical equipment. Frixis, the Belgian refrigeration and air conditioning association, supported GO!—the Flemish government’s autonomous education body—in developing the Green Goggles project. This initiative provides a virtual environment where students can safely practice advanced HVAC installation techniques.

GO! Atheneum Courtsmanlaan Maldegem created VR applications to simulate the installation of solar panels, heat pumps, and underfloor heating. These simulations serve as an intermediate step between theory and hands-on work, helping students build essential skills even when equipment or internship opportunities are limited.

To support this approach, GO! also launched a VR device management platform for teachers. The system enables lesson planning, assignment of VR equipment, and real-time student monitoring, allowing instructors to give immediate feedback during VR exercises.