VR Training Boosts Tech Retention and Readiness

Cardinal Plumbing Heating & Air in Sterling, Virginia, has adopted virtual reality (VR) training through Interplay Learning to address technician development, material waste, and retention challenges. Originally introduced to identify the causes of field recalls, the platform quickly proved beneficial for initial apprentice training, reducing costs and improving efficiency.

The immersive VR system enables safe, simulated practice for HVAC and plumbing tasks. Cardinal reported cutting in-person training time in half and eliminating technician-caused recalls. A casting feature also allows multiple team members to observe and learn simultaneously. The firm avoided training-related material waste, which previously cost about $1,000 per technician.

The program also helped retain at least ten technicians who may have otherwise left the company. According to Service Manager Patrick Garner, the VR tools transformed learning into a motivating experience and created a "safe-fail" culture that supports skill growth and confidence.