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University of Maine presenters showcase AI, VR and XR uses for workforce training and studio learning
Summary
University of Maine System presenters demonstrated classroom and workforce uses for AI and immersive technologies, including a $400,000 Davis Foundation grant and VR training modules in aviation maintenance and flight training that speakers said reduce cost and accelerate skills acquisition.
Trustees heard an extended presentation from University of Maine at Augusta (UMA) faculty and program leaders on integrating artificial intelligence and immersive technologies (VR/XR) into teaching and workforce training.
President Kushman and Joe Ziggus framed the initiative as part of UMA's revised strategic plan, emphasizing distance learning, neurodiversity and inclusion. Ziggus highlighted three initiatives—AI, student transfer, and neurodiversity—and noted a $400,000 grant from the Davis Educational Foundation to support AI and VR integration.
BJ Kitchen, executive director of academic services at UMA, told trustees that AI should be treated as a pedagogical tool rather than an end in itself. "AI offers pedagogical value when it helps us expand feedback, differentiate support, and make student thinking and learning more visible," Kitchen said. He emphasized the need for rubrics, accessibility, academic integrity safeguards and Title II digital-accessibility compliance when scaling tools.
Speakers then demonstrated practical applications. David Glinton (aviation maintenance) described a VR program that issues headsets to students as part of tuition and runs 15-minute modules for tasks such as toe-wire handling; instructors can monitor students through Manage XR and provide targeted prompts. Glinton said VR reduces material costs and safety risks while allowing repeat practice.
Greg Jeler (aviation program coordinator) described combining AI analysis with VR simulation to speed pilot training. He gave a case example where VR plus AI-guided lesson plans helped an international student progress toward soloing with fewer paid flight hours. Jeler cited program retention of 80% (versus a 30% general-aviation retention figure mentioned) and said the program reduced expected in‑plane training hours and expense.
UMA leaders emphasized cross-program benefit: the immersion room supports nursing, cyber-security exercises and shared observation; flight simulation and VR were shown as examples of multidisciplinary use that can lower costs and expand access. Presenters repeatedly raised concerns about ethics, privacy, labor and environmental impacts of AI, and the RFP and procurement path the system is pursuing was later discussed as a separate agenda item.
What trustees approved or noted: no procurement decisions were made in this presentation. Trustees were briefed on the systemwide AI RFP status later in the meeting and were told submissions were due March 27, with vendor presentations planned for April and a targeted June announcement.
Why it matters: leaders said AI/XR tools can improve formative feedback, create affordable repeatable practice for skill-based learning and increase access for neurodiverse learners, but they flagged legal and accessibility constraints that need policy attention as implementation scales.
