Discovering professions through virtual reality: guidance workshop

Author: Siham Lechkar, Guidance counsellor, Euroguidance Belgium French-speaking Centre

A new Virtual Reality (VR) guidance workshop has recently been established as a part of a project called Discovery360°which was created based on the needs of the users of Cité des métiers Brussels. This initiative offers a wide range of guidance activities and supports young adults aged 18 to 29 in their career guidance by helping them explore professions that are in high demand across various sectors. The workshop is held monthly with each session lasting half a day. The workshop is facilitated by trained guidance counsellors.

Tackling Misconceptions and Supporting Career Planning

The initiative responds to a need in our labour market. It aims to reduce misconceptions about certain professions and professional sectors that are in high demand.

Participants can gain a better understanding of the realities in the field, the skills required and the working environment. It also helps them make the right training choice and build their career plan. 

Immersive Career Exploration Through Virtual Reality

Using virtual reality (VR) headsets allows the participants to experience immersive workplace environments. This allows participants to explore various professions in a dynamic and engaging way. This approach helps bring career discovery to life by offering a glimpse into the tasks and responsibilities of different roles.

The session begins with the guidance counsellor introducing the goals of the workshop and explains how the VR equipment works. The guidance counsellor may also recommend other guidance workshops to help deepen participants career exploration or learn more about training opportunities based on each participant’s profile and interests.

An IT technician is present throughout the session to manage the technical aspects and address any issues that may arise.

Participants can explore a wide range of professions across several sectors including:

• Logistics: logistics manager, truck driver, forklift operator, order picker
• Construction: crane operator, roofer, electrician, quantity surveyor, machine operator, site supervisor, painter, bricklayer, carpenter
• Industry: boilermaker, welder, maintenance technician, site manager, mechanic, project manager
• Healthcare: cleaner, nurse

The list of professions is continuously expanding, with new fields such as banking, real estate, and entertainment being added regularly to reflect the evolving job market.

Participants can also practice certain skills through short interactive games. For example, they can carry out daily tasks performed by a caretaker or virtually drive a truck for 15 minutes— which offers a realistic and practical insight into the profession.

Guidance counsellors play a crucial role in supporting participants by offering more detailed information about the trades introduced during the workshop. This includes outlining the educational paths, training programs, and potential career opportunities associated with each field, helping individuals make informed decisions about their future.

Positive Early Impact and Future Perspectives

Since its launch in January 2025, the workshop has received encouraging feedback from participants. Many expressed their appreciation for the immersive experience and the unique opportunity to explore various trades in an engaging and innovative format. This immersive approach has sparked curiosity and motivation among participants, particularly those who may still be uncertain about their professional path.

Despite these promising signs, it remains too early to determine the long-term impact of the workshop on the actual enrolment in vocational training programs. A more accurate assessment will require additional time.