Case Study: Welding the Future – Augmented Reality in Apprenticeship Training

Executive Summary

This case study showcases a local group apprenticeship organisation, ATNZ, and the use of augmented reality (AR) delivered by trainers on its welding apprenticeship programme. It directly relates to ConCOVE’s purpose in reimagining vocational education for the construction and infrastructure sectors and sharing innovations across the sector.

We conducted a series of interviews with industry representatives, current apprentices and ATNZ staff, including trainers, account managers, partnership officers and senior executives. These interviews looked to capture their thoughts and insights into the simulated welding apprenticeship programme, what makes it unique, how it supports apprentices, potential improvements, and the overall value it adds to ATNZ as a leading provider of managed apprenticeships and industry training programmes.

The case study also highlights the key benefits and challenges of simulated welding and provides recommendations for the construction and infrastructure industry, along with the vocational education system, to design and improve apprenticeship models using a technology-led approach.