Owens Corning University is taking contractor training to the next level with the launch of OCU VR, a new virtual reality learning platform designed to help roofing crews build skills, improve retention and practice real-world installations anytime, anywhere—before ever stepping onto a roof.

At the center of the initiative is the proprietary OCU VR Headset Bundle, which allows crew members to train anytime and in any weather conditions. The bundle includes a Pico 4 Ultra Enterprise headset, two controllers, a charger and a setup guide to ensure users can begin training quickly and easily. The program is available in both English and Spanish.

A More Efficient Approach to Learning

OCU VR was developed to help crews not only learn critical roofing skills but also apply and retain them on the job. The immersive experience places users in realistic scenarios covering key roofing topics such as shingle offset installation, ridge ventilation, flashing techniques and deck inspections.

Research has shown the effectiveness of VR-based training, with studies indicating employee retention rates can improve up to 80% one year after VR instruction, compared to just 20% one week after traditional training. By allowing users to actively practice techniques in a simulated environment, OCU VR reinforces proper installation methods before they are performed in the field.

Easy to Use and Built for Continuous Learning

Getting started with OCU VR is designed to be simple and seamless. Platinum and Preferred Contractors can log in to their OCConnect accounts to purchase the OCU VR Headset Bundle. Each shipment includes a step-by-step setup guide that walks users through powering on the headset, logging in and launching their training experience.

The platform offers both a guided “learn mode,” which walks users through each process while explaining the importance of proper installation, and an assessment mode that evaluates performance. Assessment scores are transferred back to OCU, and users can download and print certificates of completion upon successfully finishing a course.

OCU VR is also designed with long-term, ongoing education in mind. As new courses aligned with the OCCraft curriculum are developed, they will be automatically added to OCU VR headsets via Wi-Fi, ensuring crews have access to the latest training content without additional setup.

Platinum and Preferred Contractors can order the OCU VR training bundle through OCConnect. Additional information is available at Owens Corning’s website or by contacting ProDesk@owenscorning.com

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