VARLab Vibe - Josh Moore

(Interview by Krushi Kiranraj)

Today's VARLab Vibe features Joshua Moore - someone who has worn a couple of hats at the VARLab, from a talented software developer to one of our amazing DevOps team members!

What do you do at the VARLab, and how long have you been on the team?

I have spent most of my time working as a software developer on both internal tools and packages for VARLab to use. I have also supported our more traditional Digital Learning Experiences (Shout out to Public Health Inspection). Recently, I joined the DevOps team to expand my knowledge base and help grow our internal processes. I have been a part of the team since May 2023.

How did you hear about the VARLab, and what made you apply?

My Advanced Computer Security Professor encouraged his students to apply and had great things to say about the company and team, so I ended up applying and had a great conversation with Cam Turner during the application process, which resulted in me accepting the offer I was given.

What has been your favorite project to work on so far?

Tough question; my favorite has been my current project; I am working with the DevOps team to grow our internal process for continuous integration and continuous deployment. In a way, I get to work with all projects on this team, and it’s a cool opportunity to help build the infrastructure the company will hopefully rely on in the future.

Are there specific areas or technologies you're excited to learn more about?

Continuing from the previous question, recently I’ve been interested in learning more about all that goes into the development → deployment lifecycle, the infrastructure and tools used. Lots of Linux machines, servers, pipelines, scripting, and how it supports every team within an organization.

Where do you get the best information about upcoming trends in game and simulation design?

I’d say the best information comes from the perks of being a huge gamer, participating in various gaming communities, and keeping up to date with the news cycle of the gaming industry. By being on the 'ground floor,' trends become apparent over time, and one can hear many different perspectives from others online and in various communities.

What is something really important to keep in mind when developing immersive experiences?

When it comes to developing immersive experiences, the most crucial factor is freedom. Finding the balance between guiding the user too much and not enough can be a fine line. Users should be free to do things that are wrong, maybe even nonsensical. As long as it fits within the confines of the game space and the tools given to them, they should have the freedom to use those in any way they can imagine. Want to jam a probe thermometer into an egg? Go for it! ??

What moments in your work bring you the most personal satisfaction and fulfillment?

For me, it is the moment when things finally click into place, whether that’s a feature that’s finally implemented and seeing it in action or finally fixing that one stubborn bug that was bothering you. Seeing the fruits of your labor is always fulfilling.

Who is your favorite anime character and why? Hard question, I’ve watched a lot of great stories and characters over the years. Recently I’d have to say Thorfinn from Vinland Saga. To see the character growth from someone blinded by rage and a need for vengeance to someone who says “I have no enemies, none at all.” and decides to make a better life no matter the circumstances. I think everyone can learn from that kind of character growth and progression, and we all should all strive to reach that better place, whether physically, mentally, or in other aspects of life.

What fictional world would be the most challenging (or rewarding) to translate into VR and why?

I think a challenging yet rewarding world to translate into VR would be the universe of Avatar: The Last Airbender. The in-universe “magic” system, where characters control the elements of earth, fire, water, and air through precise movements, would be difficult to implement but incredibly immersive if done right.

What’s something interesting about you that many folks don’t know?

This is my second career; I worked as a welder and metal fabricator for about five years before returning to school. While these two industries seem completely different, there are many similarities in creating something, whether physical or digital. Building a large project with many components usually involves breaking it down into many smaller components, creating those, then later joining the smaller pieces together.

The best thing that's happened to you this year?

I’ve really gotten into Magic: The Gathering this year, and one of the highlights was pulling a $300 card from a collector-booster pack.

Krushi Kiranraj joined the VARLab as a Project Assistant in 2023 and is an international student at Conestoga College pursuing her Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Business Management. She brings diverse experience in banking, consulting, and project management. She is committed to the idea of a sustainable world.