A New Era in Tech Education
Omaha is innovating in tech education. The Omaha VR Pipeline (OVRP) brings together the best minds in medicine and technology to level up Omaha’s workforce. At UNeTech, the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC)’s medical expertise connects with the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO)’s tech innovation capabilities to create something new. Students create medical training tools on commercial VR technology!
UNMC’s world-class facilities provide the perfect testing ground for new VR applications. Fellows learn by doing, not just watching. What makes this program special is its focus on real-world impact. The Pipeline builds bridges between healthcare and tech: teams solve actual problems in medical training using video game-inspired engineering. This practical approach democratizes VR Healthcare Innovation. It is a simulation platform available to anyone.
At the MCC Career Fair, MCC student explores virtual reality technology while Prototype Design and Agile Product Management expert Noah Wester shares insights. Photo by Jennifer Pool.
Building Tomorrow’s VR Leaders
OVRP training goes beyond basic coding. Initially, fellows join multi-disciplinary teams working on real projects. They learn Unity for VR development, they master Scrum for project management, and get hands-on experience with the latest VR tech. Furthermore, the program offers both Unity and Scrum Alliance certifications to boost career prospects.
Similarly, teams tackle complex challenges under expert guidance. UNO’s **computer science ** faculty provide technical mentorship throughout each project phase. Fellows learn to think like developers and leaders. They manage project timelines and goals and work directly with clients and stakeholders. Additionally, each team member gains experience in different roles: coding, artwork, and testing. Thus, the program builds both technical and soft skills. These skills, therefore, prepare fellows for real-world tech careers in VR Healthcare Innovation.
From Concept to Reality: Intubation Simulation
Currently, teams are revolutionizing how medical professionals learn intubation procedures through virtual reality simulation. Specifically, fellows work directly with UNMC doctors to understand the precise movements needed. Fellows capture procedures in motion capture tech to record expert techniques. Each sprint brings new improvements to the training module.
Furthermore, the project combines technical skills with medical knowledge in ways that traditional education never could. Teams use advanced tools to evaluate medical expert’s movements. Additionally, fellows build realistic 3D models of medical tools and patients.
The simulation must feel real to be effective. Hence, every detail matters in medical training, and the objects exist in interactive 3-dimensional space. Thus, our fellows learn the importance of precision, accuracy, and detail. Finally, fellows see how their code affects real training outcomes. The pipeline connects fellows to job opportunities. The OVRP is not just training developers – it’s building tech leaders.
Preparing a New Workforce
The numbers speak for themselves. UNeTech fellows have earned 14 professional certifications. Furthermore, teams have completed 24 development sprints. Moreover, each project builds a stronger portfolio. UNeTech is now engaged with Metro Community College and UNO to connect graduates to a diverse range of employers. The pipeline connects fellows to job opportunities. The OVRP is not just training developers – it’s building tech leaders.
The OVRP opens doors to careers in healthcare tech, game development, and beyond. Graduates have real project experience. They understand both technology and business needs. Additionally, they know how to work in teams and can manage complex projects. Therefore, they bring certified skills to their employers. Finally, the program provides networking opportunities.
Through VR Healthcare Innovation, UNeTech’s building the next generation of medical technology leaders. Fellows meet industry leaders and potential employers, growing a new branch in the tech community in Omaha.
Want to be part of VR Healthcare Innovation? Visit UNeTech’s website to learn more about becoming a VR Pipeline Fellow.
A VR Pipeline Fellow leads a discussion with fellow participants, while Anna Johnston observes and engages. Photo by Jennifer Pool.
