Georgia Tech Joins Virtual Reality Augmented Reality Association

Georgia Tech is proud to announce its membership with the Virtual Reality Augmented Reality Association (VRARA) — marking a significant step in advancing innovation in the fields of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). Founded in 2015, the VRARA is an international organization dedicated to fostering collaboration among industry leaders, promoting innovation, and advancing the adoption of immersive technologies. As a strategic sponsor of the VRARA’s Atlanta chapter, Georgia Tech plays a key role in advancing extended reality (XR) throughout the global ecosystem. 

As a leading higher education institution, Georgia Tech has been at the forefront of AR and VR research and development. The Augmented Environments Lab has pioneered immersive digital experiences since 1998, focusing on applications that integrate physical environments with digital augmentation. Additionally, the Office of Information Technology (OIT) has been actively exploring XR technologies to enhance teaching, learning, and research, including partnerships with the Georgia Tech Library and its Center for 21st Century Universities, the Invention Studio @ Georgia Tech, and through efforts with faculty and student groups to explore immersive ER-based collaboration and co-design — the intersection of arts and XR. 

“Joining the VRARA reflects Georgia Tech's commitment to driving innovation and supporting lifetime learners,” said Didier Contis, executive director of OIT’s Academic Research Technologies. “Our collaboration with VRARA will enable us to leverage our expertise in AR, VR, and artificial intelligence to develop innovative solutions that benefit our students, researchers, and the broader community." 

Georgia Tech’s membership with the VRARA is also expected to bolster Atlanta's reputation as a hub for technological advancements and talent, aligning with the City of Atlanta’s dedication to attracting and retaining top professionals through initiatives that promote a diverse and skilled workforce. The collaboration is also poised to create new opportunities for research, development, and collaboration, further solidifying Atlanta’s position as a leader in the tech industry. 

“Georgia Tech is one of the world’s premier universities,” said Adam Kornuth, president of the VRARA Atlanta chapter. “We couldn’t be more excited about our continued collaboration to drive strategic impact through innovation in the Southeast — and beyond.” 

With over 50 chapters around the world, the VRARA boasts a network of more than 60,000 professionals and 4,000 organizations.  

For more information about the Virtual Reality Augmented Reality Association, visit thevrara.com.