ITI acquired by Interplay Learning

Interplay Learning, a provider of immersive skilled trades training, has secured funding from Goldman Sachs Alternatives and acquired Industrial Training International (ITI) in the USA to expand its footprint in key sectors. 

With the acquisition of ITI, Interplay is expanding into the industrial sector, furthering its aim to reach every industry that faces a chronic labor shortage. Founded in 1986, ITI is a long-serving provider to many companies and governmental entities in the crane and rigging sector. ITI has brought immersive simulation training to the market. 

“Both Interplay and ITI have the same mission to build better careers and better lives for the workers who construct, repair and maintain the essential systems of the world,” said Doug Donovan, Interplay CEO. “We believe every skilled worker deserves unlimited social mobility and learning experiences. Every organization should have confidence in the preparedness, competencies, and value drivers of their skilled workforce. By joining forces and with the support of our investment partner Goldman Sachs Alternatives, we can accelerate that vision and deliver a cross-industry platform that supports these workers throughout their career journey and drives positive business outcomes for the companies that depend on them.”

Meeting the challenge

Through this acquisition, Interplay is tackling one of the biggest challenges threatening the US economy – the skilled labor shortage, the company said. According to Angi’s 2024 Skilled Trades Report, 70 per cent of surveyed tradespeople say the lack of an available workforce is stunting their growth. The U.S. Labor Statistics estimates there will be 1.5 million new skilled trades jobs by 2029 and not enough workers to fill them. The need to replace retiring workers by attracting younger talent to careers in the trades is felt across residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure construction.

Zack Parnell, former ITI chief executive, will be executive vice president at Interplay Learning

Beyond industry, Interplay helps educational institutions by powering programs with supplemental learning using 3D simulations and virtual reality. It also supports the launch of independent skilled trades academies where none existed before. Graduates earn industry-recognized certifications.

Austin, Texas-based Interplay’s training platform enables rapid upskilling and empowers new technicians to be job-ready within weeks, not years. Featuring hands-on 3D simulations, expert-led videos, knowledge checks, and personalized learning paths, Interplay’s immersive platform is more scalable and engaging than traditional training. Leveraging advanced technologies like AI and VR, Interplay is reshaping the future of online skilled trades training, delivering highly effective learning experiences that result in better careers and better lives. Since 2016, the company has trained more than 250,000 people using immersive learning technology and has worked closely with nearly 2,000 businesses and educational organizations.

Industrial Training International said it is a global leader in the design and delivery of learning solutions for organizations conducting crane, rigging, and load handling activities. Founded in 1986, the company originally specialized in instructor-led training, field services, and consulting. ITI has since grown to produce live online, and on-demand courses delivered via the ITI Learning Hub and has been recognized with industry association awards for its virtual reality crane simulator solution. For more information about ITI, visit www.iti.com

Zack Parnell, former CEO of ITI, will serve as executive vice president at Interplay Learning.

“I’m so thankful for the trust you’ve placed in ITI to prepare your people for their work, thereby establishing ITI as the clear global leader in the design and delivery of learning solutions for cranes, rigging and mobile equipment,” said Parnell. “ITI and Interplay share the vision that you deserve confidence and intelligence in the preparedness, skill levels, and value drivers of your skilled workforce. I’m thrilled to announce this next chapter.”