VALVE: Virtual Assisted Learning for Valve and Equipment Training

The Virtual Assisted Learning for Valve and Equipment Training (VALVE) project is a collaborative effort between California State University, Northridge’s Autonomy Research Center for STEAHM (ARCS) and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), and aims to enhance workforce training through augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) technologies.

The project focuses on developing immersive, interactive training modules that simulate LADWP’s water infrastructure systems. These modules enable employees to gain hands-on experience with water system components – such as valves, tanks, and pumps – in a safe, controlled virtual environment. VALVE supports LADWP’s broader goal of preparing employees for emerging job roles, improving safety training, and reducing water system downtime due to operational errors.

Traditional methods of training in utility systems often rely on on-site demonstrations, paper manuals, and limited physical models. These approaches are constrained by availability, safety concerns, and cost.

LADWP identified a critical need to modernize its workforce development program to support training in emergency scenarios, equipment operation, and maintenance procedures. With AR/VR technologies maturing, there is an opportunity to evaluate their effectiveness in addressing skill gaps, improving retention, and scaling consistent training across multiple employee roles and scenarios.