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Places and Online Communities to Learn and Network About AR/VR in Ontario, Canada
Post date :
Feb 2, 2022
Ontario, one of the largest IT clusters in North America, has become a hub for tech experts and enthusiasts. With AR/VR technology transforming virtually all sectors in Canada, Ontario has also become home to a thriving AR/VR community. Those looking for opportunities for learning and career growth will find the city a veritable treasure trove. If you are one of them, here is a list of organizations and events you shouldn’t miss.
Organizations and online communities for AR/VR enthusiasts in Ontario, Canada
Virtual Reality Augmented Reality Association (VRARA)
The global association for VR and AR has a Toronto chapter where individuals interested in immersive technologies can attend partner-hosted events, collaborate with innovators in the area, join research teams, and participate in many other activities.
The AR/VR Network is a community group for faculty and staff of UofT actively involved or planning to engage in AR/VR projects. Group members share experiences and learn from one another as they promote the use of immersive technologies for teaching and learning. This group is exclusive to the University of Toronto faculty, staff, and students.
Toronto VRC is a growing community of creators exploring and utilising the vast potential of virtual reality. Members can join online discussions and monthly events to connect and interact with game designers, software developers, filmmakers, artists, and other creators.
Be an active member of VRTO, the organization that hosts one of the largest AR/VR conferences in Canada. Join the group in VRTO Meetups to take part in meaningful discussions focused on challenges, threats, and opportunities in virtual and augmented reality. The group also holds various local events throughout the year.
OVRA is a student-run organization focused on empowering young tech talents and paving growth for them in the tech industry. The group facilitates and fosters collaboration between students and companies in the AR/VR space. They also conduct events, contests, and initiatives with corporate partners.
AR/VR Conferences and Workshops in Ontario in 2023
OCAD University, Toronto | July 19-20, 2023
After the success of VRTO 2022, AR/VR enthusiasts are looking forward to another two-day event filled with new opportunities for learning and building career networks. VRTO will once again bring together experts and think tanks in immersive technologies, business, education, and other sectors.
Toronto, Canada | September 20-21, 2023
Listen to researchers, scientists, educators, and practitioners as they share their experiences and discuss the latest trends and innovations in various aspects of mixed reality technology. Understand the challenges the industry faces and help find solutions for them.
Learn and Network to Grow Your Career in Tech
With the industry evolving fast, AR/VR enthusiasts must always stay up to date with emerging technologies, the latest trends, and forecasts. Being part of niche communities and connecting with others in the industry is a great way to do so. Use the resources we have shared above to learn and network. To further grow your career in this sector, consider taking XR courses from the University of Toronto. In partnership with Circuit Stream, the university offers online cohort-based programs in XR Development with Unity, Interaction Design and Prototyping for XR, and Unity Development Bootcamp. Course participants also gain access to an exclusive community of peers and experts in the tech industry.
