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Places and Online Communities to Learn and Network About AR/VR in British Columbia, Canada
Post date :
Apr 8, 2022
With hundreds of immersive technology companies headquartered in Vancouver, it is now one of the world’s largest AR/VR sectors. It also houses the largest cluster of VFX and animation studios. So, it comes as no surprise that the AR/VR community in the region is flourishing. If you’re looking to build a career in AR/VR, it offers plenty of opportunities for learning and networking. Here’s a list of organizations and communities focused on AR/VR that you may want to consider joining. We’ve also added a list of events in 2023 that’ll help you gain more knowledge and become more visible in the local tech scene.
Organizations and communities for AR/VR enthusiasts in British Columbia, Canada
Virtual Reality Augmented Reality Association (VRARA)
VRARA, a global association for people interested in AR/VR, has a local chapter making an impact in Vancouver. Vancouver-based members are mostly professionals engaged in innovative pursuits, academic research, and other initiatives related to immersive technologies. Sign up as a member to join events, collaborate with peers, or lead committees.
Help advance the augmented reality industry by joining the XR community in AWE Nite Vancouver. Part of the Augmented World Expo, AWE Nite Vancouver focuses on connecting and empowering its local community by hosting meetup events, conferences, and online discussions.
DigiBC-The Creative Technology Association of British Columbia is an exclusive community of people in the creative tech sector which includes AR/VR and virtual production industries. As a DigiBC member, you become part of its Member Directory, which allows you to connect with other members, promote your business, and find tech talents. You also gain access to the latest market research and gain support from the creative technology industry in BC.
The largest member-led tech association in British Columbia, BC Tech supports members in growing and scaling their tech companies or initiatives. Its membership is open to students, entrepreneurs, tech companies, and virtually anyone who is passionate about tech, including immersive technologies like AR and VR.
A coalition of leaders in tech, community, and culture, the Frontier Collective is putting the spotlight on the thriving tech industry in Vancouver. It provides support for tech startups, local artists, and cultural hubs. It hosts events that bring together local talents, seasoned investors, small business owners, large corporations, and government leaders.
Vast potential for career growth in British Columbia
Recognized as a leading VR/AR ecosystem, British Columbia offers plenty of opportunities for people seeking growth in the tech sector. The resources we have shared above are just a handful of the many organizations, forums, events, and conferences that open avenues for learning and networking in the region.
To accelerate your career in AR/VR, equip yourself with new skills by taking XR courses from the University of British Columbia Extended Learning. 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. Aside from mastering core concepts and honing practical skills, course participants also gain access to an exclusive community of peers and experts in the tech industry.