MDI and Transfr bring virtual reality career training to Minnesotans with disabilities

Minnesota-based manufacturer and social enterprise MDI has partnered with workforce education provider Transfr to deliver virtual reality career exploration and training for disabled people.

MDI provides employment and workforce development services for people with disabilities, while Transfr specializes in immersive career training simulations designed to support skills development and access to in-demand careers.

The initiative is being rolled out through Unified Work, MDI’s workforce development program focused on closing the employment gap for people with disabilities. Through the partnership, participants gain access to Transfr’s VR-based platform, which simulates hands-on experiences across a range of career fields.

VR training deployed through Unified Work

Since the launch of the partnership in September 2024, more than 200 individuals across Minnesota have completed over 500 virtual training experiences. The platform includes more than 30 work simulations across sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, construction, agriculture, and logistics. Users also have access to a mobile-enabled web experience that features detailed career profiles for more than 100 occupations.

Jeanne Eglinton, vice president of employment services at MDI, said:

“Powered by MDI, Unified Work has an exciting vision to expand constructive, employment-advancing opportunities for people with disabilities through these VR work experiences. Our collaboration with Transfr better equips our team to support people with disabilities in understanding the many different work possibilities available to them, while also continuing to create new opportunities to experience workforce satisfaction and success.”

Focus on accessibility and future workforce goals

Transfr’s platform offers simulations in English and Spanish, with closed captioning to support diverse learning needs. The company’s broader model links training content with career planning and provides educators with curriculum resources and professional development support.

The program aligns with Unified Work’s goal of delivering one million new learning experiences by 2030. However, details on the longer-term rollout strategy, funding model, or external evaluation metrics have not yet been disclosed.

Bharani Rajakumar, founder and CEO of Transfr, said:

“MDI is an important partner with a critical mission that makes real, positive impacts on thousands of people every day. As a workforce education company focused on the next generation of workers, we’re honored to align with MDI in helping individuals with disabilities advance their careers. Transfr is committed to expanding employment opportunities in underserved communities, and we encourage others to follow the example of partnerships like this that create meaningful experiences and make a real difference in people’s lives.”