Interplay Learning

Founded in 2016 by Doug Donovan, Interplay Learning provides a platform (“SkillMill”) with 3D simulation and virtual reality training solutions for the HVAC, plumbing, electrical, solar, multi-family maintenance, and facilities maintenance workforces. The company seeks to create an online training platform like LinkedIn Learning that is focused on essential trades and develops “comersive” learning, which combines immersive learning with a human connection. All content is created in-house and is available to enterprises and individuals on a subscription basis. In December 2020, the company expanded into the higher education market. As of February 2021, the Interplay Learning platform had 110,000 users. The company had more than 2,000 customers that included small- and medium-sized businesses who use the platform for employee onboarding and training, and community colleges and high schools with vocational programs.

In June 2021, the company received IACET accreditation, qualifying the training on SkillMill for annual Continuing Education requirements by state licensures and other credentialing bodies. (The International Association for Continuing Education and Training [IACET] is a non-profit association dedicated to quality continuing education and training programs and is the only standard-setting organization approved by the American National Standards Institute [ANSI] for continuing education and training).

Key customers and partnerships 

In January 2022, the company partnered with North American Technician Excellence (NATE) to launch an online training platform for HVACR technicians—NATE Training Academy. 

In June 2022, the company announced that United Air Temp (UAT), a plumbing services solution provider, introduced Interplay Learning’s on-demand simulation and VR training courses in its training academy.

Funding and financials

In February 2021, the company raised USD 18 million in Series B funding to expand into new markets and grow the platform’s course catalog, adding trades such as telecommunications and utilities.