The Kind of Grand Opening that Changes a Town: VRmont Studios

by Jess Willis

I don’t usually write about grand openings — because most don’t really feel grand to me. Full of good intentions? Always. Full of hope? Absolutely. Worth supporting locally? Of course. But write about it? Rarely. 

That is, until this weekend.

In a local building that I’ve watched slowly come back to life, Black River Innovation Campus held a Grand Opening for their newest project @VRmont Studios, Vermont’s first (and only) destination for virtual reality, drone sports, and STEAM education, right here in Springfield, Vermont.  My initial instinct was to pop in solo to congratulate the team, but instead I opted for the real test: an unplanned Willis family adventure with my four kids (5, 8, 9, and 11) to see how they’d interact with the space.

One hour later — they didn’t want to leave.

From a VR escape room we are still gushing over, to a drone soccer demo, to exploring a maker-space with 3D printers, laser cutters, and LEGO robotics, there was truly something for everyone. Watching my kids try something brand new, collaborate, laugh, and problem-solve together in what is practically our backyard was so powerful.  It was also a great reminder of what experiences like this make possible. It’s exactly the kind of energy that’s making this small Vermont town of mine feel alive and full of momentum again. I’m still completely blown away that this resource now exists in walking distance from our house!

This wasn’t just a fun afternoon (though it was absolutely a total blast with my kids). It felt more like a sign - a proof point for the revival efforts taking place an the people and vision behind them.  It is learning that feels exciting, and creativity that I can already envision developing into real skills and future opportunities for our kids. 

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