Uploaded April 2026 | Updated September 2026, 6 days ago
Immersive technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR) are helping utility companies better visualize, maintain, and manage complex infrastructure. One practical example comes from the Toms River Municipal Utilities Authority in New Jersey, where field workers have piloted an AR system using Microsoft HoloLens and the vGIS platform. By integrating existing geographic information system (GIS) data with AR visualization, workers can see a real-time overlay of underground infrastructure—such as sewer, drainage, and energy lines—while standing above ground. The system aligns digital models with physical landmarks like sewer manholes and can be controlled with voice commands or hand gestures, allowing crews to work hands-free while accessing critical information. This shared visual interface helps multiple agencies coordinate during repairs or emergencies and reduces the risk of damaging buried infrastructure during excavation.
Immersive technologies are also transforming workforce training and knowledge transfer within the utilities industry. With an estimated 40 percent of the current utility workforce expected to retire by 2030 and demand for skilled workers increasing as grid modernization projects expand, utilities are turning to MR and VR to accelerate training. These technologies create high-fidelity simulations of real-world tasks—such as relay testing, equipment maintenance, or climbing utility poles—allowing technicians to practice safely while receiving immediate feedback. Studies have shown that AR-based training can reduce training time for entry-level technicians by up to 50 percent, while immersive learning programs can also lower training costs and improve retention. In addition, MR/VR platforms enable remote collaboration, allowing experienced engineers to mentor field technicians in real time through shared virtual environments, helping utilities retain institutional knowledge while preparing the next generation of workers to manage increasingly complex energy systems.
Hosts:
Matt Wren - In-Person Host
Founder of The Next Evolution Nonprofit Event Series & VRAR Chicago
Caroline Dennis - Virtual Host
Two-Degrees.io & XRWomen
Immersive technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR) are helping utility companies better visualize, maintain, and manage complex infrastructure. One practical example comes from the Toms River Municipal Utilities Authority in New Jersey, where field workers have piloted an AR system using Microsoft HoloLens and the vGIS platform. By integrating existing geographic information system (GIS) data with AR visualization, workers can see a real-time overlay of underground infrastructure—such as sewer, drainage, and energy lines—while standing above ground. The system aligns digital models with physical landmarks like sewer manholes and can be controlled with voice commands or hand gestures, allowing crews to work hands-free while accessing critical information. This shared visual interface helps multiple agencies coordinate during repairs or emergencies and reduces the risk of damaging buried infrastructure during excavation.
Immersive technologies are also transforming workforce training and knowledge transfer within the utilities industry. With an estimated 40 percent of the current utility workforce expected to retire by 2030 and demand for skilled workers increasing as grid modernization projects expand, utilities are turning to MR and VR to accelerate training. These technologies create high-fidelity simulations of real-world tasks—such as relay testing, equipment maintenance, or climbing utility poles—allowing technicians to practice safely while receiving immediate feedback. Studies have shown that AR-based training can reduce training time for entry-level technicians by up to 50 percent, while immersive learning programs can also lower training costs and improve retention. In addition, MR/VR platforms enable remote collaboration, allowing experienced engineers to mentor field technicians in real time through shared virtual environments, helping utilities retain institutional knowledge while preparing the next generation of workers to manage increasingly complex energy systems.
Hosts:
Matt Wren - In-Person Host
Founder of The Next Evolution Nonprofit Event Series & VRAR Chicago
Caroline Dennis - Virtual Host
Two-Degrees.io & XRWomen
