What was previously considered a futuristic concept is now a viable alternative for corporate learning, with numerous huge organizations utilizing immersive VR to help staff practise skills, reduce mistakes and engage more fully. Immersive VR training enables students to practice real-world tasks in a safe, controlled setting, repeating experiences as many times as necessary and receiving immediate feedback.
Furthermore, for organizations with remote or globally dispersed workforces, VR training provides scalable options where actual classroom logistics are costly or impossible.
In this blog, we’ll go over ten compelling company case studies from industries such as automotive, logistics, finance, energy and more that demonstrate how companies are using VR for training, the results they’re getting & more.
Why Virtual Reality Training Is Growing in Corporate Learning
Before we get into the examples, let’s look at the driving forces behind VR training adoption and why it needs serious consideration-
1. Faster learning & better retention
According to research, VR-based learning can save training time by up to 400% when compared to traditional classroom approaches while also considerably increasing retention and confidence. Another study found that XR training increased learning efficacy by 76% when compared to conventional approaches.
This impact is thanks to the immersive & active nature of VR and because learners are engaged, may practise frequently, make mistakes in a secure environment and receive quick feedback, their retention (the amount of what they learn they remember) improves.
2. Scalable & geographically independent
Modern VR headsets, particularly untethered ones, enable training to be offered remotely or in a centralized style, eliminating the need for each employee to travel. This is especially important for organizations with teams based in various locations, states, or even nations. VR training allows you to train anytime, anywhere & at your own pace.
For example, Nestlé established a VR-based safety training program and intends to replicate the technique throughout its approximately 400 global operations. This approach takes advantage of VR’s scalability to provide constant training delivery while lowering the costs associated with traditional training methods such as travel and physical equipment.
3. Safe risk-free practice in high-stakes situations
VR provides a safe practice environment for businesses where mistakes can cost lives, millions of dollars, or brand reputation (aviation, offshore oil, manufacturing) or where equipment & trip costs are high. Being able to practise in a risk-free virtual environment is a distinct advantage.
For example, one academic study on industrial hazard training utilizing VR, found that users were more satisfied and confident in emergency response activities.
4. Better measurable data & analytics
VR platforms can measure more detailed tracking of learner activity, including how long they took, where they paused or restarted, what errors they made, where they looked or moved at and whether they repeated activities. These analytics provide more insight that is difficult to capture in traditional training.
Some studies in medical VR training demonstrate enhanced time-series classification of motions and procedures.
5. Cost savings over time
While the initial investment in VR equipment and material may be expensive, many organizations report that once enough learners have been trained, the cost-per-learner falls below traditional techniques. Firms with a large number of learners & repeat sessions benefit from significant cost savings.
6. Better engagement
Many VR programs have greater learner satisfaction rates. Walmart observed that VR participants reported approximately 30% better satisfaction compared to classroom training.
In short, if your organization is looking to improve training particularly for technical skills, onboarding, safety drills, remote teams, or as part of a hybrid/virtual event strategy; VR training is now a viable option.
Top 10 VR Training Examples
Here are 10 fascinating examples of how businesses are utilizing VR training & what your organization can learn from each of them-
1. Bank of America (Finance)
Bank of America was facing a training challenge i.e. it had a large workforce of customer-facing associates. They found traditional training lacked realism for handling challenging customer interactions or empathy-based engagements.
The VR solution they implemented is that they have developed immersive VR role-play experiences where associates practise customer conversations in virtual scenarios & feel confident to apply what they have learned. The results of this solution was that 97% of trainees felt confident and they could apply practically what they learned.
Some key outcomes/lessons from this is that it shows VR’s viability beyond heavy-industry: even in finance & service sectors, VR training works for soft-skills & service-oriented roles.
If your clients or you are training customer service, sales or empathy skills, consider VR modules that simulate realistic client interactions. Then host virtual event debriefs using platforms like Airmeet to foster peer reflection & best-practice sharing.
See the video here
2. BMW (Automotive)
BMW needed to train managers and production-staff on factory design, lean methodologies and safe working practices. They recognised that traditional training like live floor tours, classroom, etc had limitations in scale & cost.
The VR solution BMW came up with is that it created VR simulations where employees can practise setting up factory lines, understanding workflows and applying lean manufacturing principles in an immersive way. Managers are trained digitally & then transfer knowledge to workers.
Some key outcomes/lessons from this is that while exact metrics weren’t always published, the case is frequently cited in lists of best VR training use cases. The major takeaway is that VR allowed BMW to expose learners to real-factory systems virtually, reducing need for physical setup and travel. For organisations, if your training involves equipment, factory layouts, or complex workflows, VR can replicate it virtually.
From BMW you can learn that where you have process design, new equipment onboarding, or multiple sites like remote HQ + plant + field — consider a VR simulation to standardise training. Combine that with live virtual event sessions using a platform like Airmeet for debrief, Q&A and peer learning.
3. Peugeot (Automotive)
Peugeot sought to train employees across multiple countries in postures, mental form, safe working behaviour and ergonomics. Traditional e-learning modules weren’t delivering enough engagement.
The VR solution Peugeot implemented is that they used interactive 360° video & voice-activated questions, enabling employees to experience scenarios and practise safe behaviours in VR across five countries and 40,000+ staff.
Some key outcomes/lessons from Peugeot is its higher engagement thanks to immersive format & better retention of behaviour-based training. For companies with large & distributed workforces, VR modules for safety behaviour, ergonomics or communication are viable.
From Peugeot, you can learn to use VR for behaviour change training e.g., diversity, ergonomics, remote-team communication etc and pair it with live virtual event breakout sessions for reflection and peer discussion.
4. Audi (Automotive/Logistics)
Audi was facing issues with complex logistics operations, error rates in picking and assembly are significant. They wanted to reduce errors and improve worker motivation in its logistics operations.
The VR solution Audi developed was a VR training environment that simulated logistics tasks like picking, assembly, using “pick-by-light” systems in VR. Gamification like leaderboards, challenge mode etc was integrated.
Some key outcomes/lessons from Audi is its motivation and error reduction improved. For companies with warehouse, distribution, retail operations, VR can simulate warehouse layouts, picking tasks and assembly operations.
From Audi, you can learn to run training for logistics, supply-chain, retail or warehouse operations, and build VR modules to mirror your environment. Using gamification for engagement, and hosting a live virtual session using a platform like Airmeet post-VR for reflection & peer sharing.
5. Volkswagen (Automotive)
Volkswagen had many employees travelling for training and standard tasks like assembling a door or brake required consistent training across sites.
Volkswagen’s VR solution involved over 30 VR training assignments, used by its employees, allowing remote and flexible training for standardized workflows.
Some key outcomes/lessons from Volkswagen is that its training became more accessible, scalable and cost-efficient. For organisations with distributed locations and remote onboarding, VR offers a consistent, standard experience across geographies.
From Volkswagen, you can learn to use VR to standardise onboarding, then use platforms like Airmeet to deliver live cohort sessions, peer networking and certification or your training programmes with global reach or across many states/provinces.
6. MAN Energy Solutions now Everllence (Marine/Offshore)
MAN Energy Solutions (now known as Everllence) was facing a training challenge for marine/offshore operations as getting trainees to the site is highly expensive. Training engine-room operations in-situ is logistically difficult.
The VR solution it built was a virtual engine-room environment where trainees walk around, take apart components & handle more than 20 fault-types in a simulated environment.
Some key outcomes/lessons to learn from Everllence is that its personnel are better prepared before deploying offshore, costs of remote logistics drop & readiness improves. For training operations with remote & inaccessible sites, VR is a strategic channel.
From Everllence you can learn that for remote site training like field, offshore, national parks, etc., build VR modules ahead of live deployment & host an virtual session using platform like airmeet for pre-brief and post-brief to maximise ROI.
7. KLM (Aviation)
KLM was facing a training challenge of high costs for pilot training, simulator time, aircraft time and logistics. They needed a solution for cockpit familiarisation especially for short-haul/crew training.
The VR solution they took was they built a multi-phase VR training programme i.e. virtual cockpit intro, 360° walkthrough of aircraft and virtual interactive aircraft environment for familiarisation.
Some key outcomes/lessons is that it reduced physical simulator time, earlier stage exposure for pilots & more accessible training. For organisations in aviation, transportation or those with complex equipment training, this model works well.
From KLM you can learn to use VR for equipment onboarding or high-cost training, then you can also use a platform like Airmeet to host live debriefs or Q&A sessions with instructors and trainees.
8. BP (Energy/Offshore)
BP was facing issues with operating in offshore drilling and high-risk environments, meaning that it must train its employees for emergency response, safety protocols and team coordination under stress.
The VR solution BP used was VR modules for immersive training in emergency response, high-stakes scenarios and coordination among teams in hazardous environments.
Some key outcomes/lessons are improved safety culture, better preparedness, fewer incidents in drills. For corporate training teams serving industrial clients around the world, VR provides a strong tool for high-risk training scenarios.
From BP you can learn to use VR for emergency-response, safety drills or hazard simulations; follow with live virtual cohorts to review performance and share lessons learned.
9. Siemens (Offshore/Industrial)
Siemens was facing a training challenge of training workers for offshore wind-turbines as installation is expensive, risky and logistically complex (weather, remote sites, coordination).
The VR solution Siemens developed was VR scenarios where trainees practise installation tasks like crane operations, blade fitment, etc., in different weather conditions, variable terrain & coordinated team workflows.
Some key outcomes/lessons are better coordination, fewer pre-deployment errors & lower field costs. For organisations in heavy industry, remote teams or multi-day field training, VR provides an excellent preparatory layer.
From Siemens you can learn to use VR for field-operations training prior to live deployment, combined with virtual event follow-up sessions for review, incident learning and cross-team feedback using platforms like Airmeet.
10. DHL (Logistics)
DHL was looking to improve efficiency in loading goods, reducing unused space & boost warehouse/transport loading productivity.
The VR solution DHL created was a “Cargo Loading VR Simulation” where workers practise loading packages into vehicles/containers, optimise space, under time constraints and using gamified leaderboards.
From DHL you can learn that for training dispatchers, loaders, logistics personnel, build a VR scenario that mirrors your actual environment, then use live virtual sessions to review performance, share leaderboard results and drive peer competition.
How to Make VR Training Work for Your Organisation
Here are some practical measures and considerations-
1. Identify the right use case
Begin by identifying a training scenario in which VR delivers the most value, such as high risk, high cost of mistakes, remote workforce, repetitive procedure, equipment-heavy position, etc.
2. Define measurable outcomes
Establish straightforward metrics such as time to competency, error rate reduction, decline in safety incidents, cost per learner, engagement scores and so on. Make sure your VR rollout includes dashboards and tracking so you can compare it to traditional techniques.
3. Select the technology & content path
Decide whether you will use off-the-shelf VR modules for e.g., vendor libraries or build custom content specific to your processes. Check the analytics capability of your VR platform like time to complete, error logs, repeat counts, user satisfaction etc. Plan for logistics like device shipping, user orientation, remote support, sanitisation of in-person hubs etc.
4. Pilot & iterate
Run a pilot with a manageable number of learners to validate technology, content, logistics and measurement. Collect feedback like user comfort, engagement, technical issues, logistics cost etc. Use a pilot to improve as some companies iterated their VR modules after feedback. Compare pilot results vs baseline training (pre-VR). Document improvements and cost savings.
5. Scale & integrate with virtual events/hybrid learning
Once validated, scale across roles & geographies. You can also integrate VR modules into your event/training offering e.g., pre-event VR assignment, then live virtual event for debrief, peer networking, certification etc.
Use virtual event platforms to provide live instructor-led sessions that complement VR experiences, such as breakout rooms, peer groups, Q&A and analytics reviews.
Use insights from VR and live sessions to provide a comprehensive training story for clients, including pre-VR measurements, VR performance data, live event comments and more.
6. Manage logistics, accessibility & change-management
Check that headsets arrive on schedule, provide user instructions, and IT support. Some learners may experience motion sickness or discomfort; use best practices such as short sessions, seating alternatives, breaks & other research-identified strategies.
Communicate value to stakeholders such as training executives, HR, and L&D professionals. Use data to build confidence. VR content may need updates as equipment or processes change. Device management and content version control are important.
Additional Considerations: Trends, Costs & ROI
- According to a recent immersive learning study, adopting VR solutions improves time to competence by approximately 52%. Furthermore, it is also reported that more than 85% of learners prefer virtual reality training over traditional methods.
- Although specific amounts differ, several VR vendors claim significant cost savings when scaled. One provider claims a 90% (classroom 90 min vs VR 20 min) reduction in training time for a retailer.
- Unlike static e-learning, VR programs frequently require versioning, upgrades and device refreshes. It is important to plan for life-cycle management and content replenishment.
- Bridging immersive VR training with your platform’s virtual event environment gives you a competitive advantage i.e. immersive, interactive & cohort-based training.
- Integrating VR analytics with event/training platform analytics provides complete visibility into training effectiveness and ROI.
Conclusion
Virtual reality training is no longer a nice-to-have gimmick; it has evolved into a tool that adds significant corporate value. The ten examples above demonstrate how firms from many industries are using VR training for anything from manufacturing floors to contact centers, offshore installations to retail outlets.
For organizations, as well as virtual event/training providers like Airmeet, incorporating VR training provides a clear path to more engaging, scalable, measurable and cost-effective learning. You can maximize the potential of immersive learning by choosing the correct use case, creating clear KPIs, carefully piloting, integrating with your virtual event environment and scaling strategically.
FAQs
Enterprises frequently use standalone or untethered headsets (no bulky PC necessary) for ease of deployment and remote personnel. Features like inside-out tracking, hand controllers, business device administration and content security are important. For worldwide or dispersed teams, ease of shipping and remote setup are critical factors.
To address motion sickness for learners do the following-
- Design VR modules with comfort in mind
- Reduce rapid movement, use teleportation vs smooth walking, keep sessions short, provide orientation/“warm-up” segments, allow learners to sit if needed & monitor feedback
- Include non-VR alternatives where necessary
Not yet, in most cases—VR is best used as a supplement or precursor to on-the-job training rather than a complete substitute. Its strengths include safe rehearsal, repeating scenarios and remote scalability. After immersive VR, live field or on-the-job practice is still essential. Use virtual reality to prepare, speed and standardize before beginning work.
