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DIVE-VRT advisory committee reviews first-year results, hears from former participant

First row: Amy Gallaher, Melanie Denham and Shambria Campbell; second row: Kailey Medlock, Estefania Simon, Larry Tartaglino, Kevin Vincent, Tammy Jorgensen Smith and Karoline Guerrero; third row: Christine Hugh, Joe Fratto, Nabile Amar, Michael Parker, Scott McCrimmon, Scott Fontechia and Jonathan Munroe.

PAC Committee members along with the DIVE-VRT team. First row: Amy Gallaher, Melanie Denham and Shambria Campbell; second row: Kailey Medlock, Estefania Simon, Larry Tartaglino, Kevin Vincent, Tammy Jorgensen Smith and Karoline Guerrero; third row: Christine Hugh, Joe Fratto, Nabile Amar, Michael Parker, Scott McCrimmon, Scott Fontechia and Jonathan Munroe.

The program hosted a Project Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting on September 9, 2026, at the DIVE-VRT classroom located in Tampa鈥檚 Telecom Park.

Committee members had an opportunity to review first-year project outcomes, key highlights, planned changes for the next cohort, and ask questions about the curriculum and technology.

Jonathan Munroe presenting

Jonathan Munroe, graduate of DIVE-VRT's pilot cohort, spoke to committee members about his experience while in the program.

The also heard from Jonathan Munroe, graduate of DIVE-VRT's pilot cohort, who shared his appreciation for the program and instructors and reflected on what he gained from the experience. Following the presentation, members explored the virtual reality equipment to better understand how participants use the technology.

The PAC is composed of community members from various agencies across the bay area that includes Hillsborough County Public Schools, CareerSource Tampa Bay, 91社区 Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FASST), Veteran's Administration, Vocation Depot, ABC 91社区 Gulf Coast鈥檚 apprenticeship programs, and Center for Assistive Rehabilitation and Robotics Technologies (CARRT). Several of the project鈥檚 team members and instructors from VRG Learning Institute (VRGLI) also joined the meeting.

DIVE-VRT integrates virtual reality and artificial intelligence technologies into an existing, highly successful transition and employment program, . The program trains and certifies youth and adults, with lifelong and acquired disabilities, in skilled trades. The program provides them with the industry knowledge and employment soft skills necessary for future success. In addition, Job placement and support services are available post-program to ensure a smooth transition into the workforce.

For more information on DIVE-VRT and how to join the PAC, visit their .

Disclaimer: DIVE-VRT is funded by U.S. Department of Education, Grant Number H421F240044.

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