Researchers at Rochester Institute of Technology are using augmented and virtual reality as part of a modern training platform to help address the skilled labor shortage in manufacturing. Traditional positions in the manufacturing industry are evolving and require new skill sets to manage processes and equipment. Today's Industry 4.0 and advanced manufacturing operations require knowledge about smart technologies and automation. Using artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented or virtual reality (AR/VR) applications as a training strategy can support novice trainees in learning critical manufacturing skills, said Yunbo Zhang, an assistant professor in RIT's Kate Gleason College of Engineering and part of the research team developing the technology platform. Developing smart technology solutions can also be a means to retain the knowledge of master machinists and manufacturing engineers.