Konecranes Adopts VR Crane Simulator to Expand Training Capacity

May 6, 2026 - Konecranes has adopted Industrial Training International’s (ITI) VR Crane Simulator to expand customer training capacity through the Konecranes Training Institute while reducing the need to remove equipment from service during training.

The announcement was made by Interplay Learning, which said the simulator is being integrated into instructor-led training programs. According to the release, the addition of virtual reality simulation allows Konecranes to train up to twice as many crane operators per session.

Konecranes said the new approach combines VR simulations with traveling master trainers, allowing hands-on training to reach more customer sites, including remote locations and facilities with limited space. The company said the format also reduces reliance on crane availability during training sessions.

“Through the Konecranes Training Institute, we’re focused on making training more accessible and practical for our customers,” said Darlene Crowder, director, sales and marketing, Konecranes Training Institute. “Integrating VR simulations allows us to deliver safe, hands-on training in more environments, to more people, while reducing the need for customers to take equipment out of service.”

The simulator is used as an intermediate step between classroom instruction and live equipment operation. Trainees can perform lifts, navigate scenarios and practice in a repeatable environment before moving to field applications.

According to Konecranes, the approach also allows instructors to present more scenarios in less time, which can increase repetition and participant exposure to operating conditions without affecting production schedules.

“ITI’s VR Crane Simulator makes it possible to train in ways that just aren’t realistic with live equipment,” said Amy Schroeder, director of training, Konecranes. “Most facilities can’t take cranes out of production regularly, and you can’t safely recreate high-risk scenarios like overloads, side pulls or equipment failures during training. ITI’s VR Crane Simulator removes those barriers, giving trainees the chance to experience critical situations in a controlled, repeatable environment, even when equipment or facilities aren’t available.”

Konecranes said it has incorporated the VR simulation technology into several training programs, including overhead crane operator, crane operator and rigging train-the-trainer and mobile crane operator courses.

“Konecranes is setting an example for how OEMs can rethink how they support their customers,” said Doug Donovan, CEO, Interplay Learning. “By combining instructor-led training with immersive simulation, they’re expanding access to hands-on learning while helping customers maintain productivity and address the growing shortage of skilled crane operators.”