Gaming, Simulation & the Future of Human Capital Management
On the latest FEDtalk, we explore how gaming, virtual reality (VR), and technology are connected to federal recruiting, training, and development with a panel of industry and military stakeholders. Host Jason Briefel welcomes Staff Sergeant Ian Mills, Head of Marine Corps Gaming, Oliver Noteware, Founder & CEO of Street Smarts VR, and Cody Caddell, Director, Digital Transformation at C2 Technologies Inc.
Staff Sgt. Mills explained how Marine Corps Gaming began as a volunteer, community-led effort by Marines to organize around shared interest for gaming, whether using technology and consoles, or analog with dice and boards. These activities provided a common bond, place to think and develop new skills, and to socialize and have fun. While not part of the Corps officially, the activities of Marine Corps Gaming are blessed by senior leaders, with some hosting competitions on bases and embracing the positive benefits for recruitment.
The technology that powers high powered video games is also fueling a revolution in training and simulation, both for dangerous situations like a military or law enforcement operation, but also more routine uses like aircraft maintenance or pilot training. Oliver Noteware discussed how Street Smarts VR was borne in part out of his own experience as a Marine on a faraway island waiting for months to be trained because the simulator technology was broken. The solution is to use commercially available VR technology coupled with Street Smarts immersive VR and real-life data sources. Together, Street Smarts VR has been able to roll out tailored training to thousands of law enforcement officers across the country.
Noteware and C2 Technologies’ Cody Caddell discussed one of the most interesting developments of the pandemic and the exponential increase in the use of gaming, simulation, and technology for training is the impact on training professionals themselves. The ability to customize solutions and experiences for attendees based on requirements requires a deeper understanding of human development and performance, and a more tailored approach to individual users.
Looking forward, the guests discussed the natural ability of especially online games to create communities and how those can be benefits for recruitment as well as retention of the workforce. Moreover, gaming has changed the narrative that the workplace has to be devoid of fun and entertainment. Advancing professional skills, learning with the latest technology, getting better at your job, and enjoying the process, are not mutually exclusive.
You can stream the show online anytime on Federal News Network or listen to FEDtalk on all major podcasting platforms. FEDtalk is a live talk show produced by Shaw Bransford & Roth P.C., a federal employment law firm. Bringing you the insider’s perspective from leaders in the federal community since 1993.