Lethbridge Polytechnic partners with Virtualware on XR development

Apr 14, 2026 | 4:13 PM

Lethbridge Polytechnic’s Spatial Technologies Applied Research and Training (START) Centre has signed an agreement with Spain-based Virtualware to develop extended reality (XR) demonstrations using the company’s VIROO platform.

Lethbridge Polytechnic says the partnership will support immersive demonstrations aimed at helping industries adopt XR technologies.

“As applied researchers in extended and virtual reality, START’s mission is to show industry the value of effectively implementing VR and XR technologies,” said Tyler Heaton, industry liaison and research advisor at START.

“This partnership expands our toolbox and our capacity to demonstrate new applications across sectors.”

Virtualware, headquartered in Bilbao, Spain, develops 3D-driven enterprise software and operates in Hamilton, Ontario.

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According to Lethbridge Polytechnic, the START Centre will work with Virtualware to create content for sectors like public safety, construction, public health and skilled trades.

The agreement also includes the use of VIROO, a platform for developing and running immersive demonstrations.

Lethbridge Polytechnic says it will host the first VIROO facility in western Canada, allowing students and industry partners to collaborate on XR projects.

“This collaboration positions the START Centre at the forefront of immersive technology innovation,” said Michael Rosas, president of Virtualware North America.

Heaton said students will help develop and integrate XR content as part of their schooling.

The START Centre is part of Lethbridge Polytechnic’s Centre for Applied Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, which works with industry and community partners on applied research projects.

by Haven Thibert

Lethbridge Polytechnic partners with Virtualware on XR development

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