#United States #Austin #Interplay Learning #Industrial Training #VR Crane Simulator

Industrial Training International Honored as CONEXPO/CON-AGG Next Level Awards Finalist

Austin, Texas – February 12, 2026 – Industrial Training International (ITI), a leader in industrial skills training and part of Interplay Learning, has been nominated as a finalist for the prestigious CONEXPO/CON-AGG Next Level Awards. This accolade recognizes the most innovative contributions and advancements that are set to define the future of the construction sector. ITI's entry, the VR Crane Simulator, stands out in the Technology category among an impressive lineup of competitors.

The CONEXPO/CON-AGG event, known as North America's largest construction trade show, established the Next Level Awards to honor breakthroughs in equipment, technology, and sustainability practices which are essential for modern construction. Out of more than 230 submissions, only 20 companies were selected, and ITI’s cutting-edge VR Crane Simulator has successfully secured a spot among this elite group.

The VR Crane Simulator is lauded for its unique capability to train crane operators in a secure, virtual ecosystem where they can develop and enhance their skills. Recent updates to the simulator have introduced several exciting features:

1. A brand new ten-ton overhead crane to broaden the training scope.
2. More complex and varied training scenarios that simulate real-world challenges.
3. Integration of the Magnetek® brand XLTX Bellybox Transmitter, created in collaboration with Columbus McKinnon Corporation.

Attendees at the CONEXPO/CON-AGG are invited to experience the VR Crane Simulator firsthand at the ITI booth, where they can also vote for their preferred finalist. Voting will occur throughout the event from March 3 to March 5, allowing industry professionals to weigh in on the innovations they deem most impactful.

"The readiness of the workforce remains a pressing issue within the construction industry, and adopting modern training solutions is a powerful way to tackle this challenge," stated Doug Donovan, CEO of Interplay Learning. He emphasized the breakthrough nature of ITI's VR Crane Simulator, which allows workers to hone their skills confidently without jeopardizing safety or pulling essential equipment from active use.

The winners of the Next Level Awards will be unveiled during the CONEXPO/CON-AGG, and ITI will proudly showcase the VR Crane Simulator, highlighting advancements that are shaping the construction industry's future. The awards ceremony is set for March 6 at 10:30 AM at the Ground Breakers Stage of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The CONEXPO/CON-AGG conference will take place from March 3 to March 7. Further details about the event can be found on the official website here.

For additional information about ITI, visit iti.com, and to learn more about its parent company, Interplay Learning, check out interplaylearning.com.

About ITI and Interplay Learning

Interplay Learning specializes in immersive education targeted at skilled trades and industrial crafts, now offering the expertise of ITI, recognized globally for its specialized training solutions. The combination of instructor-led guidance, online simulations, AI technology, and VR tools empowers organizations and educational institutions to expedite skill enhancement, mitigate risks, and boost operational readiness. With nearly 600,000 trained professionals, Interplay Learning is shaping the workforce's future by promoting improved career paths and quality of life. Recent honors for the organization include various awards, showcasing its influence in the training industry and commitment to excellence.

Visit www.interplaylearning.com for more details about their offerings and innovations.