MeetKai collaborates with Miami University on new workforce development initiative for manufacturing sector

AI platform MeetKai has announced a new collaboration with Miami University, aiming to improve safety training for Ohio’s manufacturing sector.

Miami University received a $1.5 million grant from the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation to launch the Safety Immersion and Gamified Hazard Training (SIGHT) initiative. The scheme aims to reduce the number of preventable injuries for the state’s 700,000 manufacturing workers. 

“This is a pivotal moment not just for Miami but for the future of Ohio’s industrial safety and competitiveness,” Fadel Megahed, Professor of Information Systems and Analytics and one of the project’s leaders, tells EITH. “This solution builds not only technical knowledge but also hazard recognition instincts — which are vital in high-stakes environments.”

Using AI, augmented reality and virtual reality (VR), the scheme aims to create effective, personalized and accessible training programs for industrial workers.

MeetKai will provide advanced VR development tools to power scalable, AI-powered training modules. Using generative AI, the platform will simulate realistic hazard scenarios and adapt to the specific environments and skill levels of individual workers.  

The SIGHT program using AI to continuously update training content, setting it apart from standard, static schemes and making it ideal for small and mid-sized companies without dedicated training staff and infrastructure. 

“We’re proud that our tools will play a part in making this training widely available, supporting Miami University’s mission to bridge education, innovation, and workforce development,”Kevin Bresnahan, Vice President of Business Development at MeetKai’s tells ETIH. 

“This is an exciting example of how MeetKai’s technology can help create practical solutions that have a direct impact on safety and job readiness in real-world industrial settings”.

Mohammed Mayyas, Chair and Professor of Engineering Technology, Associate dean for Strategic Initiatives, and a driving force behind the new Advanced Manufacturing Workforce and Innovation Hub adds: “This is a prime example of Miami’s commitment to interdisciplinary solutions and industry-connected education,” Mayyas said. “We’re aligning advanced manufacturing capabilities with cutting-edge AI to make our workforce safer, smarter, and more future-ready.”