Syncrude’s Mildred Lake and Aurora mining sites received the Immersive Technologies’ 2011 Business Improvement Award for “outstanding results with its simulator-based operator training program.” Syncrude used its simulator-based operator training program to reduce production loss, improve equipment availability and advance operator safety initiatives. The Canadian oil sands company now has the ability to measure effectiveness of its training curriculum and program. Syncrude was chosen as the 2011 recipient of this award from more than 200 Immersive Technologies’ mining customer locations in 31 countries.

Now in its fourth year, Immersive Technologies’ Business Improvement Award recognises achievements of mine sites focused on improving operational safety, efficiency and productivity achieved through strategic and focused training initiatives. Kinross’ Fort Knox was recognised as the 2010 award winner for their adoption of this strategic integrated approach to simulator-based equipment training. Syncrude adopted a comprehensive operational improvement program developed jointly with Immersive Technologies. The program identified performance goals and used targeted simulation exercises and classroom training sessions to accelerate safety, production and profitability milestones.  “Our successes can be attributed to the quality of training our operators receive from our training teams, shift trainers and mentors that include field, classroom and simulator sessions,” said Brian Fairley, Syncrude Vice President, Production. “Our leadership at Mildred Lake and Aurora mines recognise the important role played by the simulators in the development of our heavy hauler fleet and shovel operators. We have made a great deal of progress on safety, reliability and productivity with their continued support.”

“We are excited for Syncrude in receiving this year’s award,” said Cory Cook, Immersive Technologies’ Vice President North America. “Their commitment and enthusiasm to continually improve the safety and efficiency of their equipment operator’s skill sets is second to none and exemplifies the positive change and focus on training programs we are seeing from our customers globally. Utilising Immersive Technologies’ advanced simulators and training integration programs, customers have a proven method to measure the positive effect of their training programs on their site operations.” Syncrude is one of the leading producers in Canada’s oil sands with a production capacity of 350,000 barrels per day.