Times listed in EDT.
Highlights
Learn how augmented reality applications and multi-modal eBooks are being used at MidAmerican Energy Company to improve both the efficiency and effectiveness of training programs for the next generation of new collar workers.
Overview
In this session, MidAmerican Energy Company will showcase how it reduced training time while simultaneously improving retention by leveraging new technology and mobile applications on tablets, phones and computers. Trainers use technology in classrooms or virtually to accelerate learning and share lessons learned. They have enabled new employees and apprentices to learn at their own pace and practice operational or maintenance processes in a safe and secure environment.
Company
MidAmerican Energy Company, headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, serves more than 795,000 electric customers in Iowa, Illinois and South Dakota, and 774,000 natural gas customers in Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska and South Dakota. www.midamericanenergy.com
Presenter
Chris Biernacki is the senior director of client and corporate development at Index AR Solutions, which creates eBooks and augmented reality mobile applications for a variety of industries. In his current role, he works closely with the workforces of Index’s clients to tap into their expertise while creating new training approaches and techniques. Before joining Index, Biernacki spent three years providing engineering and support services at Mirion Technologies, a world leader in nuclear measurement technology. Biernacki also served as a nuclear engineer and health physicist at Newport News Shipbuilding, supporting the refueling and overhaul program for the 90,000-ton U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier as well as inactivation of the U.S.S. Enterprise. He holds an MBA from the College of William & Mary and a bachelor's degree in physics from Radford University, where he minored in both mathematics and chemistry. 
Michael Hoff is the director of health and safety at MidAmerican Energy Company. In his current role, his organization of safety professions, industrial hygienists and nurses are responsible for the administration of safety programs, safety training, occupational health services and strategic plans aimed to reduce the likelihood and severity of employee injuries. Before this role, Hoff served various roles at MidAmerican Energy Company, including the director of business optimization and innovation, delivering technology and process improvement solutions, and several operational roles within the gas delivery business unit. He holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Iowa State University, where he minored in nuclear engineering.
