About us
VRAR Chicago brings together people who are interested in working with virtual and augmented reality technology.
The Next Evolution, also AWE Nite Chicago, produced by VRAR Chicago, is over seven years old and every month we feature a different industry and highlight current and potential implementations of spatial computing solutions within that industry. We gather an expert panel and focus the discussion on the needs of our audience, to help them take their next step forward with immersive technology. The event attracts a diverse group of professionals already working with spatial computing as well as those who are really new to it and generally takes place on the first Wednesday of each month (we avoid for holidays).
The community includes developers, business leaders, investors, students, and more. Many are actively working with VR and AR technology here in Chicago - providing consulting, business development, and technology development services. What makes us different from other groups is that we are not just interested in seeing what's out there, we are actively producing, promoting, and demonstrating VR and AR technology in our businesses and community.
We generally meet on the 1st Wednesday every month except for January and July where we host social meetups instead of stage programs. There are a few months where we move for holidays or to avoid other known Immersive Technology events. Our monthly event series will be held at 1871 in the auditorium or at 2112. Topics and panel details are schedule to be announced at least 2 weeks prior to each schedule MeetUp.
If you are interested in sponsoring, demonstrating technology, or participating on the expert panel, please email the organizer. We're also happy to answer any questions.
Upcoming events
1
AWE Nite Chicago | The Next Evolution of Utilities
4245 N Knox Ave, 4245 North Knox Avenue, Chicago, IL, USWednesday 04/01/2026
5:30pm Physical | 6:00pm Virtual (Central)
AWE Nite Chicago | The Next Evolution of Utilities
Free to Attend
This is a hybrid event where we field questions from our in-person audience, the virtual environment audience in FRAME, as well as those tuning in via YouTube.
5:30pm | In Person | 2112: 4245 N Knox Ave
6:00pm | Virtually | FRAMEvr
6:15pm | Live Stream | youtube.com/@AWEXR/streamsBeer provided by Revolution Brewing
Seltzers provided by [SYSTEM] SeltzersAbout the Topic:
Immersive technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR) are helping utility companies better visualize, maintain, and manage complex infrastructure. One practical example comes from the Toms River Municipal Utilities Authority in New Jersey, where field workers have piloted an AR system using Microsoft HoloLens and the vGIS platform. By integrating existing geographic information system (GIS) data with AR visualization, workers can see a real-time overlay of underground infrastructure—such as sewer, drainage, and energy lines—while standing above ground. The system aligns digital models with physical landmarks like sewer manholes and can be controlled with voice commands or hand gestures, allowing crews to work hands-free while accessing critical information. This shared visual interface helps multiple agencies coordinate during repairs or emergencies and reduces the risk of damaging buried infrastructure during excavation.
Immersive technologies are also transforming workforce training and knowledge transfer within the utilities industry. With an estimated 40 percent of the current utility workforce expected to retire by 2030 and demand for skilled workers increasing as grid modernization projects expand, utilities are turning to MR and VR to accelerate training. These technologies create high-fidelity simulations of real-world tasks—such as relay testing, equipment maintenance, or climbing utility poles—allowing technicians to practice safely while receiving immediate feedback. Studies have shown that AR-based training can reduce training time for entry-level technicians by up to 50 percent, while immersive learning programs can also lower training costs and improve retention. In addition, MR/VR platforms enable remote collaboration, allowing experienced engineers to mentor field technicians in real time through shared virtual environments, helping utilities retain institutional knowledge while preparing the next generation of workers to manage increasingly complex energy systems.
Join us April 1st to learn about immersive technologies in Utilities.What's The Format:
We will start with informal networking with demonstrations, then host a panel discussion to answer audience questions, and we end with more networking and demonstrations. We keep it simple and informal – this meetup is about you, our members, and not just a soap box for the host, presenters, or our sponsors. Come and get your questions answered, take your next step in Immersive Technology.5:30-8:30pm Central
5:30-6:15 PM Networking & Tech Demos
6:15-6:30 PM Welcome Message
6:30-7:10 PM Panelist Presentations
7:10-7:45 PM Panel Discussion with Q&A
7:45-8:30 PM Networking & Tech DemosHost:
Matt Wren - In-Person Host - Founder & CTO of BUNDLAR
Caroline Dennis - Virtual Host - Two-Degrees.io and XRWomenFor More Details:
https://thenextevolution.org/upcoming-events/***
Register Here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/the-next-evolution-nfp-109384632841
The Next Evolution | AWE Nite Chicago Event Series (produced by VRAR Chicago) is now and always will be 100% free to attend.
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Thanks to The Next Evolution Sponsors like UL Solutions, 2112, and beverage sponsors [system] seltzers and Revolution Brewing.We would also like to thank our Community Partners that help us continue spreading the joy of immersive technologies: FrameVR, XR Women, NVZN, Patched Reality, Two Degrees.io, and Unreal Chicago.
2 attendees
Past events
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