Elec Training is a Birmingham-based provider of electrician course. The founder, Mr Mannu, plans to introduce virtual reality (VR) into the curriculum. He says, “VR isn’t just for games anymore. It’s now appearing in fields you wouldn’t expect—electrical training included—and the results speak for themselves. Training centres around the world are praising its impact.”
Why Elec Training Is Adding VR
Traditional electrician training relies heavily on live demonstrations, physical tools, and on-site practice. That method is effective—but limited. Mistakes with live electricity can be risky. Equipment is costly. And access to advanced systems—like three-phase industrial panels or EV charger setups—is often restricted.
Mr Mannu explains this gap: “With VR, students can explore systems that aren’t available in a classroom. They can deliberately make errors—overload a circuit, disconnect earthing—and learn from what goes wrong, without danger.”
VR lets learners repeat tasks many times over. Trainees can practise more in an hour than they could in a whole day on a real job site. That repetition builds skill fast.
Real-World Proof
This isn’t just theory. For example, a 2024 study showed VR electrical safety training boosted knowledge by 179.5%, with nearly 95% retention four weeks later
Another company, Transfr, offers VR modules that cover conduit bending, MC cable runs, and panel installations. They highlight that VR training ensures “zero exposure to live electricity or injury” while improving enrollment and retention
In Canada, NETCO and IBEW launched a VR motor control training program for apprentices. It simulates seven motor control labs, including conveyor systems, enabling apprentices to practise everything virtually before touching real hardware
What It Means for Learners
VR makes mistakes feel like lessons, not disasters. Trainees can:
- Identify live circuits without risk
- Perform wiring tasks repeatedly
- Practise fault-finding in virtual scenarios
- Experience realistic work environments including industrial and domestic settings
Mr Mannu of Elec Training emphasises learner confidence: “I’ve seen trainees step into VR labs nervous, only to come out assured. They understand the steps better before handling real equipment.”
What Training Centres Should Do
Elec Training will roll out VR-enabled labs in early 2026. Mr Mannu adds, “We’re not replacing physical training. But VR gives students the groundwork. By the time they touch real tools, they already know what to do.”
Adding VR requires investment. Training centres need headsets, software, and trainer support. But studies suggest ROI is strong—some industries report cost reductions and retention gains after adopting VR.
Mr Mannu argues: “It’s an investment worth making. If our competitors ignore VR, they’re only training half-prepared electricians.”
The Industry Debate
Not everyone is convinced. Some trainers fear VR could reduce real-life skills or displace hands-on teaching. That’s why the goal isn’t replacement—but enhancement. Elec Training still plans on-site workstations, live wiring labs, and inspection exercises. VR comes before, not instead of, real-world practice.
But there’s risk in waiting too long. Those who adopt VR now may offer more effective training. Those who don’t could fall behind.
What Businesses Should Do
Employers should consider VR for induction and safety training. Updated regulation or new tech (like EV charging systems) can be introduced faster via VR than in-person sessions.
As Mr Mannu points out: “You don’t need to wait for equipment to arrive. You can bring people up to speed before hardware exists.”
VR isn’t a gimmick. It’s a practical tool that complements on-site electrical training. Elec Training’s move reflects a wider change: training that’s safer, more engaging, and more effective. For learners, it means less risk and faster progress. For trainers, it means a better-prepared cohort. And for the industry, it marks a move toward higher standards in electrician training.
Source: www.elec.training
