Exploring the Future of XR: CMST116 Visits MXTreality

Poster for MXTReality featuring individuals wearing VR headsets and gloves, interacting with augmented and virtual reality elements such as 3D models of buildings, drones, and cruise ships. The poster includes the text "MXTReality," "Augmented Reality," "Virtual Reality," and the website "www.mxtreality.com," along with the MXTReality logo. The background shows Seattle landmarks, including the Space Needle.

Today, students from CMST116: Introduction to XR and the Metaverse, taught by Bruce Wolcott and James Riggall, participated in a field trip organized by the Bellevue College XR Lab to MXTreality, a Seattle-based leader in immersive technology solutions.

The purpose of the visit was to provide students with a real-world perspective on how extended reality (XR) is being used to address practical challenges across industries. Guided by Jeff Rayner, students were introduced to a range of professional XR projects currently in development at MXTreality.

Key highlights of the visit included:

  • Driver training simulations created for King and Pierce County, utilizing VR to safely and effectively prepare new bus drivers for real-world conditions.
  • A virtual reality bungee jump experience designed for the Space Needle, offering users a realistic simulation of a high-adrenaline jump from one of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks.
Two people are using a driving simulator setup. One person is seated in front of a monitor, holding a steering wheel and pressing pedals, while the other person is standing beside them, assisting with the keyboard and controls. The monitor displays a realistic driving simulation with a dashboard view of a truck on a road. The setup includes a desktop computer, steering wheel controller, pedals, and various cables, all placed in a room with blue accent lighting.

Throughout the session, students had the opportunity to engage directly with the technology, ask questions about project development processes, and learn how VR and AR applications are being designed for sectors such as transportation, tourism, education, and accessibility.

This visit provided valuable exposure to the professional XR industry, offering students insight into the growing role of immersive technology in solving real-world problems. It also reinforced many of the concepts covered in the CMST116 course, bridging the gap between classroom learning and practical application.

The XR Lab extends its sincere thanks to Jeff Rayner and the team at MXTreality for sharing their expertise and inspiring the next generation of immersive technology developers.

A modern, curved wooden shelf filled with various virtual reality (VR) headsets, controllers, product boxes, and educational materials. The display includes brands like Oculus, Pico, and MXTReality. Some sections also feature books, a trophy, and decorative items like a disco ball. The shelf is lit with purple accent lighting, and a workspace with people and computers is visible in the background.

Last Updated May 19, 2025