This talk was given at Future Tech 2026.

In this session, we'll dive deep into how to design and implement flexible, customizable AI avatars that can take on a variety of roles within immersive VR training environments. From software architecture to practical applications, you’ll gain insights into how AI-driven avatars can be dynamically adapted to different training scenarios, enhancing realism and engagement.

Saskia Groenewegen

Immersive Technologies Lead at Sopra Steria

With over 20 years in immersive technologies, Saskia is a recognized leader in the XR field. As Technical Lead for XR at Sopra Steria, she drives the development of cutting-edge VR/AR solutions, collaborating with clients to deliver innovative applications. A five-time Microsoft MVP for Mixed Reality and a Sopra Steria Codesmith, Saskia is also an active speaker and community leader. She chairs the SIGGRAPH Immersive Pavilion for 2025, co-organizes the Global XR Community, and hosts the Lost in a Lightfield podcast. Saskia regularly speaks at industry events and user meetups, sharing her expertise on XR and immersive technologies.

Arco Nederveen

Bridging AI and XR to build intelligent immersive experiences.

Arco is an experienced XR developer with over ten years of experience working on AR and XR projects for clients across multiple industries. He studied AI in Groningen and has a background in computer vision, driven by a strong interest in artificial intelligence. He now applies this AI expertise to enhance and innovate XR projects.

Building Flexible AI Avatars for Immersive Training

Saskia Groenewegen

Arco Nederveen

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