From Arcade Classics to Factory Floors: How Video Games Train the Next Generation of Repair Stars
The popularization of video games began in the 1970s, with the first ever game created around 1958, and today, the video game industry is worth over $100 billion. In American homes, nearly two-thirds of households have a family member who plays games regularly, and according to a report from Newzoo, 3.6 billion people are expected to play video games globally by 2025.
For decades, there’s been a skilled trade shortage; however, within the past few years, there’s been a boom in the return of trade jobs. While we can attest to the mechanic and repair trade programs seeing an 11.5% enrollment surge due to soaring college tuitions and better benefits in the trade industry, video games have inspired many to pursue repair careers and recent studies have shown that while they are often seen as a source of entertainment, they are playing a crucial role in training the next generation of technicians.
Video games, while often seen as a source of entertainment, are also a powerful tool for learning. They help develop essential skills for repair work, such as problem-solving, hand-eye coordination, and patience. Some games require players to think critically and devise solutions to puzzles, and more specifically, games like Super Mario Bros. or Guitar Hero demand precise movements and timing. The once very popular Poptropica and other games of that nature require patience, as gamers have difficult challenges or complex mechanics to master, which is a critical skill when working on a pesky piece of equipment.
Educational video games and simulations can provide hands-on experience in repair techniques. In manufacturing, VR headsets can significantly improve safety when training, allowing technicians to learn in a safe and regulated environment; Trainees can handle dangerous or monotonous tasks without the risk of real-life consequences. If we examine a more specific game, Meta’s Job Simulator offers a simulated environment to practice various tasks, and other educational softwares can teach product design and repair. This not only enhances learning but also ensures the safety of the trainees.
The next time you have a piece of equipment that needs repair, remember that the person fixing it might have honed their skills by playing video games. Don’t hesitate to bring your equipment to us. Our team is ready to use their gaming-inspired skills to get you back up and running. Call us today!