How is Interplay Learning responding to the ever-changing needs of the FM world?

Interplay is transforming FM training by giving organizations a faster, more scalable way to build skilled talent. As the industry grapples with a shrinking labor pool and increasing technical demands, our platform offers a modern solution: immersive, on-demand training that allows teams to upskill quickly, consistently, and at scale. Even green or inexperienced workers can start building hands-on skills from day one, reducing the need for prior technical knowledge or long job shadowing periods. This approach helps organizations close critical skill gaps, open the labor pool and create in-house career growth opportunities that improve retention.

By empowering teams to develop the skills they need in a fraction of the time, we’re helping the industry move from reactive staffing and outdated training models to a proactive, sustainable approach to workforce development.

 

In what ways does Interplay help FM professionals reduce operational disruptions and improve performance?

FM teams are under constant pressure to minimize downtime, keep systems running efficiently and meet rising service expectations, all while dealing with staffing issues and skill variability. Interplay Learning helps teams meet these challenges head-on by equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to act quickly, troubleshoot accurately and work proactively rather than reactively. Through simulation-based, hands-on learning, technicians can safely practice real-world procedures, hone diagnostic thinking, and build job-ready skills, before ever stepping into the field. This leads to fewer mistakes, faster resolutions and improved overall performance.

Just as importantly, our platform makes it easy for teams to cross-train across different trades skills like HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and safety. In today’s facilities maintenance environment, flexibility is everything, especially when staffing is tight. Cross-trained technicians can step into different roles as needed, helping teams remain agile and avoid costly bottlenecks. This versatility doesn’t just improve operational resilience, but it also boosts employee engagement and retention by opening new pathways for career growth. With Interplay, maintenance teams don’t just get better at their current jobs; they’re prepared for what’s next.

What role does technology like VR and simulation play in modern facilities training?

Technology is reshaping how maintenance teams learn, and Interplay is at the forefront of that shift. Virtual reality (VR) and 3D simulation take training beyond passive learning and into active skill-building. Technicians can immerse themselves in real-world scenarios — whether it’s diagnosing a rooftop unit or safely performing lockout/tagout — without the risks or logistical hurdles of on-the-job training.

This kind of immersive learning accelerates readiness, boosts retention, and helps teams prepare for high-stakes situations before they occur. As facilities environments become more automated and tech-driven, simulation-based learning ensures the workforce evolves in step.

In what ways does Interplay Learning bring peace of mind to FMs?

Interplay Learning provides facilities managers with peace of mind by directly addressing their key operational challenges, such as unplanned downtime, skill gaps, and high turnover. Through our immersive, simulation-based training, we enable technicians to develop critical maintenance skills faster, ensuring they can accurately diagnose issues and perform preventive maintenance procedures with greater efficiency and accuracy. This approach minimizes downtime, extends the life of equipment, and reduces the frequency of emergency repairs caused by human error.

Our career development platform also tackles retention challenges by offering structured learning paths that empower employees to grow within their roles. This leads to higher job satisfaction, increased engagement, and a more stable workforce. By reducing turnover, FMs can avoid the disruption and additional costs associated with constantly onboarding new staff.

Lastly, Interplay’s scalable, on-demand training reduces the need for outsourcing and ensures that technicians can handle complex systems in-house. With our training, managers or supervisors can confidently ensure that their maintenance teams are well-equipped to handle everything from routine inspections to emergency troubleshooting, improving performance while keeping costs under control.

Tell us Interplay’s “why” in the FM world.

Interplay’s "why" in the FM world is centered around our commitment to building better careers and better lives for facilities management professionals. By bridging the experience gap, we provide a path for technicians to grow their skills, regardless of their starting point. Whether they are new to the field or seasoned workers looking to advance, we empower them with the knowledge and hands-on training they need to succeed in an increasingly complex industry.

Our mission is to help organizations develop in-house talent, reduce turnover, and ensure a more resilient, capable workforce, ultimately improving not just the operations of facilities, but the lives and careers of the people who maintain them. Through immersive training solutions, we’re enabling maintenance teams to gain the expertise and confidence needed to tackle challenges, reduce downtime, and improve operational efficiency — all while paving the way for personal and professional growth.