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30 ELECTRONIC EDITION: WWW.MANUFACTURINGTODAYWI.COM

Shaping Workforce Training Across the Midwest with Wolter and Virtual Forklift

olter is working together with schools a high-end VR headset with a powerful gaming
Wand businesses to change how fork- computer, offering over 20 modules with real-
lift training happens across the Midwest. It istic attachments like fork extensions, clamps,
all started at Osseo-Fairchild High School in and rotators. Trainees can practice placing
western Wisconsin, where students are learn- and removing loads of all sizes in dynamic
ing to operate forklifts using virtual reality. warehouse scenarios, with visual and audio
Now, that momentum is spreading fast. feedback guiding their performance. Progress
By teaming up with Virtual Forklift, is tracked and saved for trainers and students to
Wolter is bridging the gap between schools, review together and plan next steps.
businesses, and communities. Together, they LIVE takes things further with a shared
are addressing key workforce challenges— virtual environment. Trainers, students, and
such as preparing students for in-demand observers can all interact in real time—no
careers, modernizing outdated training pro- matter where they’re located. From walking
grams, and creating clear pathways from around a forklift for a pre-shift inspection
education to employment. to managing cones and load placement, this
This isn’t just new, it’s better. Virtual fork- system supports full class sessions with multi-
lift training combines classroom lessons, VR media learning and immersive coaching.
simulations, and real-time feedback to teach real- Both systems are designed to sharpen
world skills faster and safer than ever before. skills, correct bad habits, and prepare your
team for real-world performance.
Bringing Industry and Education
Together Why Wolter Makes Sense for Your
Manufacturers across the Midwest are employees, and employers, look to increase the line. Students started by learning forklift skills Business
rethinking how they train new hires. Traditional skills available to move up and advance careers. through virtual reality simulations in the class- When you bring VR-integrated training
methods are slow, expensive, and often unsafe. That’s why smarter training matters. Trained room, then transitioned to hands-on experience to your facility, you’re doing more than just
That’s where Wolter comes in, offering train- forklift drivers have great confidence and are less at the employer’s site. By the time they graduate, modernizing—you’re making a smart invest-
ing programs and tools for companies, schools, likely to cause accidents or leave the job early. they were prepared to step directly into the work- ment in your people and operations. Wolter
technical colleges, and training centers. When With Virtual Forklift and Wolter’s support, com- force with real-world skills. helps you get the most out of your training
these entities come together, custom programs panies and schools can train better—and faster. It’s the kind of alignment more businesses program by offering:
can be developed that make sense for every- Whether you’re using a full-featured VR are looking for—and Wolter can help make it • Readiness – New hires show up pre-
one involved. Students get valuable training. system or a multi-user classroom setup, you’ll happen. pared with added skills
Employers get job-ready candidates. It’s a win- be able to: We support every step: • Retention – Confident, skilled workers
win. • Teach turning, stacking, loading & unload- • Helping schools and businesses find the stick around longer when they enjoy
ing right setup training
Here’s how it works:
• Simulate real warehouse layouts & chal- • Training instructors to use the system • Funding Opportunities – Grants &
• Schools don’t need expensive equipment lenges • Customizing programs for your goals
or warehouse space, just a VR simulator. Wolter works with each customer to match workforce programs may be available
• Students learn skills like fork controls, the right simulator and training modules to their Choose Between Individual Progress or • Stronger Communities – Supporting
maneuvers, & how real warehouses facility’s specific needs—so every skill taught Live Remote Training education builds long-term trust
operate. has a purpose. At Wolter, we understand that every train- • Growth – Training programs that grow
• Businesses gain access to a pool of trained ing environment is different. That’s why we offer as you grow with more modules & fea-
workers who are ready to go. Real Success, Real Impact two distinct Virtual Forklift systems to fit your tures
As the first and Midwest exclusive dealer Recently, Wolter partnered with a local needs—whether you’re focused on individual • Safety – Fewer accidents and lower
for Virtual Forklift, Wolter provides the tools, school and a major automotive manufacturer development or collaborative remote learning. costs while having more production time
setup, and support needed to make these pro- to create a full training-to-employment pipe- NEXUS is a solo training system that pairs Whether you’re retraining current
grams successful. These aren’t video games, employees, bringing new talent up to speed, or
they’re realistic, hands-on training systems improving communication between operators
designed by expert forklift trainers like Wolter’s and pedestrians, Wolter’s VR forklift simu-
own Tony Parsons. The common hazards that lators give your team the tools they need to
cause incidents in the real world are in the VR succeed—safely and efficiently.
environment. Students become accustomed to Take the Next Step
proper operational procedures initially and are
reminded when they stray from the standard This is about more than just technology.
with lower scores instead of injuries or damage It’s about strengthening today’s workforce
to property and product. Each system comes and preparing the next generation of skilled
with realistic controls, training dashboards, and workers. Virtual forklift training shows stu-
support so instructors can run classes with confi- dents that there are real job opportunities
dence—no tech background required. available now—with long-term potential in
industries like food & beverage, manufactur-
Why This Matters Now ing, and warehousing & distribution.
Manufacturing, like many other industries, If you’re in education or business lead-
is facing a shortage of skilled forklift operators. ership, don’t wait. Reach out to Wolter to
Older workers are retiring, and younger ones schedule a demo and see how Virtual Reality
aren’t filling the gap fast enough as the tribal forklift training can fit into your program.
knowledge leaves the workplace. VR is allowing Visit us at: www.wolterinc.com
the retention to be higher with minimal risk while