Project Team: Zoe Liu, Barry Yuan, Ethan Wills, Alvin Li, Zelin Chen
Instructors: Derek Ham, Scott Stevens
Spring 2026
Designed for teens and young adults with little prior exposure or confidence, this project explores how immersive storytelling and gamified mechanics can spark interest in welding through VR. Built for Meta Quest 3, the experience places players in the role of a spaceship maintenance worker repairing asteroid damage using adapted welding interactions. Rather than teaching full technical mastery, the game focuses on building familiarity, confidence, and curiosity around the craft.
In collaboration with Professor Dina El-zanfaly from CMU’s School of Design and community partner Industrial Art Workshop, the work also investigates how narrative framing can increase engagement in XR-based welding simulation experiences.