Interplay Learning, a provider of skilled trades training, secured funding from Goldman Sachs Alternatives and acquired Industrial Training International (ITI) to expand its footprint in key sectors. As part of this round of Investment, Interplay is adding Richard Waitumbi, managing director at Goldman Sachs, to its board of directors.
“Both Interplay and ITI have the same mission to build better careers and better lives for the workers who construct, repair and maintain the essential systems of the world. We believe that every skilled worker deserves unlimited social mobility and learning experiences,” Doug Donovan, CEO of Interplay CEO, said. “Every organization should have confidence in the preparedness, competencies and value drivers of their skilled workforce. By joining forces and with the support of our investment partner Goldman Sachs Alternatives, we can accelerate that vision and deliver a cross-industry platform that supports these workers throughout their career journey and drives positive business outcomes for the companies that depend on them.”
“Our vision is to support corporations that not only uphold core economic principles but also serve social needs, and in doing so, prove that this approach to investing will also provide strong returns. We believe Interplay represents that investment thesis and our investment will aid it in its mission to be the formidable global leader in its space,” Greg Shell, partner and head of inclusive growth strategy within sustainable investing at Goldman Sachs Alternatives, said. “Companies worldwide have tremendous challenges in hiring and retaining skilled talent, and education systems are slow to meet this need. Interplay Learning, with its leading AI and immersive technology, enables companies to control their trade skills development destiny and powers education partners to prepare the global workforce’s next generation of skilled workers.”
