Immersive Technologies has successfully delivered two simulator User Group Forums for its customers in North America and Indonesia during May, with the theme ‘Operator Optimization’ providing the basis of discussion and learning within the groups.

Held over three days in Peoria Illinois, the North American event marked the fifth forum in the region since the program’s inception in 2004. The event brought together 70 training professionals from over 20 leading North American mining companies to demonstrate the latest in simulator based training through a range of customer and Immersive presentations, interactive workshops and hands-on demonstrations. 

Immersive was pleased to have participation from two of its exclusive alliance partners, Caterpillar and Komatsu. Each delivered a topical presentation, and then provided extensive tours of their respective Peoria production facilities.

Immersive Technologies’ Regional Vice President, Cory Cook commented, “We are extremely pleased with the outcome of this event and the very positive feedback provided by attendees. Data presented at the event by customers, OEMs and Immersive all demonstrate significant cost returns being achieved today through carefully planned simulation training programs.”

Cook continued, “Over 75% of customers at this year’s event have attended our previous User Group Forums indicating the ongoing value participation in this forum provides through networking not only with all levels of Immersive staff but more importantly their mining counterparts.”

The event also provided the opportunity to recognize Kinross Fort Knox as the winners of the 2010 Immersive Technologies’ Business Improvement Award. Kinross received this award following a simulation based business improvement program facilitated by Immersive, which achieved an 89% reduction in abusive shifts and a 71% reduction in high brake temperatures, with figures being recorded from in-pit data over a four month period.

Cory Cook presented the award to Kinross’ Continuous Improvement Coordinator, Brandon Holm stating, “This award demonstrates how by combining advanced technology, a proven integration program and dedicated personnel that simulator based operator training can have a profound impact on site operations and profitability.”

Across the globe, Immersive also held its inaugural Indonesian User Group Forum in tropical paradise Bali. With delegates attending from Immersive Technologies' large Indonesian customer base, this event followed the theme of Operator Optimization and highlighted impressive customer results including an 87% reduction in operator events over a five month period, together with a significant reduction in training costs per operator through simulator based training.

Immersive Technologies also holds User Group Forum in Australia, Chile and South Africa. These regions are scheduled to have their next event within 12 months.