Sommario
In high-tech companies, onboarding new technicians is often a complex, lengthy and costly process. Trainees are required to read extensive standard operating procedures, study technical manuals, watch hours of training videos, and perform practical tasks where even small errors can compromise delicate components. At the same time, companies need faster and more effective training pathways, but often lack the tools to optimise them.
To address this challenge, VAFER – Voice Agent For Electronic Repairing – was created. Developed by R2M Solution in collaboration with Gruppo FOS, it leverages artificial intelligence and voice technologies to transform the way companies train their technicians. The goal is to enhance learning quality and make the onboarding process smoother, more personalised and less resource-intensive.
VAFER introduces a completely new approach that combines intelligent skills assessment with real-time voice support during hands-on sessions.
The objective is twofold:
- truly understand what the trainee already knows, avoiding unnecessary training repetition;
- guide new technicians during practical work, thanks to an AI voice that supports them without interrupting their workflow.
The result? A shorter, more targeted and less stressful onboarding process, with tangible impacts on cost reduction, efficiency and work quality.
A more accurate and intelligent skills assessment
The first pillar of VAFER is its advanced two-step skill assessment system.
The process begins with automated CV analysis using AVANTI, R2M’s platform already adopted in various corporate contexts to map competencies. This provides an initial snapshot of the trainee’s professional profile.
Next, VAFER conducts an AI-guided voice interview that explores specific technical aspects that cannot be identified through a CV alone.
The outcome is a detailed and verifiable report that the trainee can review before final validation.
This approach enables mentors to personalise the training pathway, avoiding unnecessary modules and focusing on areas that require deeper understanding.
Real-time voice support during practical training
The second pillar of the project is the live voice assistance provided by the VAFER agent during hands-on activities. Through simple voice commands, trainees can:
- retrieve the next step of a procedure
- receive alternative explanations for complex operations
- verify the correct sequence of tasks
- quickly access standards, checklists and certified manufacturer information
The major advantage of the voice interface is the ability to receive support without looking away from the workbench — crucial for delicate operations such as assembling and repairing electronic boards. This reduces frustration, mental load and the risk of errors, promoting more natural and effective learning.
A step forward for SME digitalisation
VAFER directly addresses the growing need among SMEs to integrate intelligent assistants into industrial training. With the support of DIH Lombardia, an expert in enterprise digital maturity, and the contribution of the WASABI team on the OVOS framework, VAFER is set to become a reference solution for adopting AI voice technologies in the manufacturing world.
Conclusion
With VAFER, onboarding in high-tech companies becomes more human, more effective and more intelligent.
Artificial intelligence does not replace mentors: it empowers them, reducing the cognitive load on trainees and enabling more precise, personalised and engaging training.
R2M Solution is proud to lead this pioneering project toward a future where voice interaction becomes a fundamental component of technical work and Industry 4.0.
