Merging Realities: The Spark That Ignited Lethbridge College’s VR Revolution

Six years ago today (April 26) marked the day we launched Merging Realities, the world’s first conference held in Virtual Reality (VR). This anniversary has made me nostalgic and reflect on what this groundbreaking event meant for Lethbridge College, and my career. I’d like to share my reflections and the lessons I learned along the way as a story.

Chapter 1: The Dawn of Digital Realities

Every story has a beginning, for Lethbridge College and VR, that was Merging Realities. Being the first of its kind to be held in VR, the conference not only marked a significant first for us but also set a new benchmark for what educational programs could aspire to achieve. Its success was not merely in its novelty; it was in its profound reach and the collaborative efforts that powered it.

The real victory of "Merging Realities" lay in its global impact, industry partnerships that spanned sectors, unwavering support from college leadership, and the active involvement of our students. It was a symphony of effort and vision, resulting in a resonance that was felt worldwide. Numbers tell a compelling story, with participants joining from across continents, highlighting the event's unprecedented success.

Lessons Learned: The Synergy of Support

"Merging Realities" was a powerful reminder of the potential that lies in collaborative synergy. The event's triumph was a product of the concerted efforts of our students, the foresight of our leaders, and the invaluable partnerships with industry experts.

The event was more than just a milestone—it was a beacon, signaling the beginning of an immersive educational journey, proving that when a college dares to pioneer, the whole world takes notice.

Chapter 2: The Evolution from Concept to Classroom

In the wake of "Merging Realities," Lethbridge College did not rest on its laurels. The event was more than a milestone; it was a starting signal. Recognizing the potential, college leadership, fueled by the event's success, endorsed the exploration of a specialized program in virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR). This wasn’t simply riding the wave of technological enthusiasm—it was about shaping the wave itself.

With no existing templates to draw from, our mission was clear: forge a new path. Engaging with industry experts, we conducted extensive research to outline a curriculum that matched the emerging needs of the VR/AR sector. This wasn’t a walk on a well-trodden path—it was an expedition into uncharted educational terrain.

By Fall 2019, just 18 months after "Merging Realities," our diligence materialized into the first cohort of the Virtual and Augmented Reality Certificate program. The numbers were telling—a full roster with eager students on the waitlist. This immediate demand was not just validation; it was a clear signal that we were meeting a critical industry need.

Lessons Learned: Navigating Uncharted Academia

What does it take to pioneer an academic program? It takes vision and a robust dialogue with industry leaders to stay ahead of the curve. It takes a willingness to embark on a journey without a map, using research and expertise as your compass. Above all, it takes the collective commitment of educators, students, and industry professionals to turn innovative concepts into educational realities.

Chapter 3: Expanding Horizons: Firsts and Foundations

In 2019, as spring ushered in new beginnings, Lethbridge College found itself at the cusp of yet another pioneering venture. Invited to the prestigious INVENTURES conference, a nexus for global thought leaders in technology, entrepreneurship, and investment, we not only represented the intersection of education and innovation but also actively shaped it. It was here that we introduced the Lethbridge College Global XR Forum, showcasing speakers from around the globe in VR, and demonstrating the latest in XR technology. The forum became a dynamic platform for over 200 attendees on its debut, a number that would triple in the following years, reflecting a growing interest and engagement from an international community.

The success of the Global XR Forum highlighted the importance of building bridges - not just between disciplines, but between continents and cultures. It also emphasized the significance of interactive and immersive learning experiences that extend beyond traditional classroom settings.

Lessons Learned: The Ripple Effect of Thought Leadership

Our participation in INVENTURES and the development of the Global XR Forum didn't just put us on the map—it wove us into the fabric of global tech conversations. We learned that contributing to these discussions doesn't just expand our influence; it also enhances our understanding of where technology can take us and the role we can play in that journey. This experience reinforced the notion that to lead effectively, one must also be willing to listen, learn, and adapt to the ever-changing technological landscape.

The ripple effect from these engagements was profound. Shortly after the success of the Global XR Forum, I was presented with an opportunity that would shift my professional trajectory: the chance to lead the development of an applied research area in spatial technologies at Lethbridge College. Accepting the challenge, I transitioned from teaching to forging a new path in research by the fall of 2019, marking the beginning of a dedicated effort to elevate the college's role in spatial tech innovation.

Chapter 4: Beyond the Horizon: The Rise of the START Centre

The year 2020 marked a significant metamorphosis for Lethbridge College's foray into spatial technology. What began as an exploration blossomed into the establishment of the Spatial Technologies Applied Research and Training (START) Centre. With a vision cast wide over Alberta, the START Centre was conceived to foster the growth and integration of spatial technologies across the province.

This was more than an expansion of facilities; it was the amplification of our potential. In four short years, the START Centre has become a cornerstone for a diverse array of sectors, providing support and expertise to healthcare providers, tradespeople, tourism professionals, first responders, and businesses. It’s not just about the technology; it’s about building a community around it that spans the breadth of Alberta’s industries.

Lessons Learned: Cultivating Enduring Innovation

The transformation from concept to centre has been a master class in the pursuit of sustainable innovation. The START Centre’s evolution underscores a pivotal truth: lasting innovation is nurtured through constant evolution and an unwavering commitment to relevancy and impact. We've learned that to truly innovate is to adapt ceaselessly, to foresee change, and to respond with vision and agility.

Epilogue: Charting the Unseen Horizon

The narrative of Lethbridge College and its trailblazing efforts in spatial technology is far from complete. As we stand on the shoulders of our past achievements, we look forward to a horizon filled with uncharted potential. The foundations we've laid are solid, yet they are mere stepping stones to the grander aspirations we aim to fulfill. The quest continues as we venture further into the vast landscape of innovation, driving change and impacting both our local communities and the global stage.