New acquisition brings additional virtual reality capability for 3T Energy Group

3T Energy Group has acquired virtual reality and software specialist Neutron VR to strengthen its technological capabilities.

This is the latest acquisition for 3T Energy Group, which purchased offshore trainer Survivex last year and also includes energy training specialist AIS Training and simulator developer Drilling Systems. Operating from three training centers in Aberdeen, Newcastle and Grimsby and with offices in Bournemouth, Houston, Dubai and China, the deal will help 3T Energy to advance its vision to transform training in the global energy sector through technology.

Neutron’s skills will be used to enhance 3T Energy’s products and services portfolio, which includes advanced full-size and mobile simulators, v-learning and integrated software to manage training programs.

All 16 personnel from Neutron VR will be retained and relocated to 3T Energy Group’s Newcastle headquarters with the company’s founders, Dinesh Kumar and Richard Coates, taking on the senior roles of Chief Technology Officer and Director of Technology Operations, respectively, within the company.

Neutron was set up in November 2014 to bring virtual reality and specialist software services to the commercial sector. Both Dinesh Kumar and Richard Coates had previously worked for games developer, Eutechnyx, so were experienced in creating striking visuals and immersive experiences. These unique skills, teamed with a strong background in software development, helped the company achieve rapid growth and win prestigious contracts with major multi nationals such as McDonald’s UK and Global, Galliard Homes, Samsung UK and Equinox Gyms. All of Neutron’s existing contracts will continue and be transferred into 3T.

“The team within Neutron will help us develop cutting-edge, technology-driven, virtual reality products and services for the global energy sector, which will truly revolutionize the way training is delivered,” Paul Stonebanks, President of 3T Energy Group and founder of AIS, said. “Products such as augmented reality, mobile apps and integrated software platforms have huge potential to make training more engaging, more cost-effective and much easier. Using technologies like this, we intend to help the global energy sector work smarter, safer and more efficiently.”

“We had been working closely with AIS Training for a number of years, helping it develop unique training and competency management systems so knew the company well,” Mr Kumar, Co-founder of Neutron and CTO at 3T Energy Group, said.  “We were very much at a crossroads with Neutron and needed to secure additional investment if we wanted to grow further. However, when the option to join 3T came up instead, it provided us with a fantastic opportunity to be part of a global group with technology at its heart.”

“Virtual reality and digital technologies offer enormous potential for the training industry that is currently relatively untapped,” Mr Kumar added. “Through, 3T we intend to bring new and exciting ways to train personnel which will make a significant difference to the global energy sector by driving higher safety standards and more competent workers.”