VR Headsets Now Included with Every 6th Student Course Registration Through Google Partnership

Jim Stover September 12, 2025 No Comments
Significant progress has been made in the development of our Virtual Reality training program. From integrating headsets with the LMS to building immersive modules on Transformers, Print-to-Model, and Model-to-Print training scenarios, the groundwork has been laid for a next-generation learning experience. Beta testing with both internal and external SMEs is underway, and systems for headset logistics and device management are already in place.

But the real headline is this: thanks to a groundbreaking partnership with Google, headsets will now be available to training programs at no cost. When six students are registered for the Virtual Reality, Branch Circuit Wiring course, your program will receive one free headset—and for every additional six students, another headset will be provided (while supplies last).

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Ensuring a Smooth Start to the New School Year: Update Respondus LockDown Browser

Jim Stover August 14, 2025 No Comments

As the new academic year rapidly approaches at many training centers, administrators in managed computer environments are reminded to prioritize updating Respondus LockDown Browser to the latest version. This proactive step is crucial for ensuring a seamless and secure online assessment experience for both students and instructors from day one.

Maintaining the most current version of LockDown Browser ensures compatibility with learning management systems and incorporates the latest security enhancements and feature improvements. Outdated versions can lead to technical difficulties, impacting the flow of online exams and potentially causing frustration for users.

Taking the time to deploy the newest version across your managed devices before the start of the semester will minimize potential disruptions and contribute to a stable and reliable testing environment.

For detailed instructions on how to update the LockDown Browser within your environment, please refer to the following article: LockDown Browser Lab Edition

6-24-2025 TMS Service Disruption

Jim Stover June 24, 2025 No Comments

During a routine system update on 6/24/2025 at 11:00 AM Eastern, we identified a database migration that stalled during the release process causing subsequent healthcheck failures and resulting in the decision to rollback. The rollback was completed without issue and the TMS is back online as of 1:08 PM Eastern. There was no disruption to the LMS during this time period. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

📣The 2025–2026 Training Essentials Catalogs Are Here!

Jim Stover April 9, 2025 No Comments

The electrical training ALLIANCE is excited to announce that the Training Essentials Catalogs for Inside Wiremen and Linemen programs for the 2025–26 school year are now available!

Want a sneak peek at what’s new? Flip to the first few pages of the catalog to see all the updates and fresh additions we’ve lined up for the upcoming school year.

🗓️ Reminder: All pricing and content go into effect July 1, 2025.

Highlights include:

  • New courses like Electrical Theory 3: Alternating Current, Motor Code Calculations, and Harassment Prevention 2025
  • Streamlined course navigation with mobile-friendly tools and built-in LMS support
  • Program updates across Inside, Installer/Technician, and Residential
  • Easy access to eBooks, and ordering through the online bookstore

🔗 Download the catalog through the Bookstore and start planning for the new school year today! Printed copies will be mailed to training locations. For additional printed copies, place your order through the bookstore.

Let’s power up 2025–26!

MFA Service Error Preventing Login to the LMS – 04/03/2025

Jim Stover April 4, 2025 No Comments
A database connection error with the MFA communication service prevented some users from accessing the LMS. The service provider detected the error at 8:10 PM pm EDT, April 3, 2025 and resolved it at 8:27 PM EDT, April 3, 2025. We apologize for any inconvenience. Only users utilizing email MFA were affected. It is recommended that all users configure SMS text or authenticator app verification as additional options to receive MFA authentication.
If you are aware of anyone still experiencing this issue during login, please instruct them to clear their cache before trying again. For instructions on how to clear your cache, click HERE

The NEW Testing Platform and Process – Coming Early July!

Danielle Filippone July 1, 2024 No Comments

After much anticipation….

The New Testing Platform and Process (TPP) is all new and shares nothing with its predecessor. It is built on the same platform as the quiz engine that has been used by the PTSI Learning Management System courses since the debut of the OLS almost a decade ago.

Overview

Test delivery will be through a lockdown browser called Respondus (full details at web.respondus.com). Respondus Lockdown Browser disables keyboard shortcuts, right-click menus, and more. It also makes opening new windows and applications impossible during a test. It forces students to focus on the test simplifying proctoring. Proctors are not tied to their computer, but free to walk around and monitor progress or answer questions.

Note: A link to download Respondus will be provided on the LMS under the EXAMS section

TPP only allows online tests. No paper tests will be available using the new system. TPP will scramble the question order, but students in a group will all see the same questions.

Use of either local program computers or student personal computers is at the discretion of the local program.

      • TPP exams are supported on Mac, Windows, Chromebook, and iPad operating Systems – Phones are not supported.
      • Keeping up to date machines and browsers is always important.


Test Availability Timeline

The New Testing Platform and Process and existing testing platform will coexist, and individuals who prepare and/or administer tests will need to be fluent in both. Here is a breakdown:

    • All new CML courses released in 2024 and after will only have tests available on The New Testing Platform and Process
    • CML courses are delineated with “ – CML” in their course title
    • Existing CML courses will be available on both platforms
    • All Outside Program tests will be available on both platforms
    • All other courses are only available on the existing Assessments system but will be added to the New Testing Platform and Process in the following order:
        • Inside, Installer/Tech, Residential Core
        • Inside, Installer/Tech, Residential Advanced
        • Substation, Underground Cable Splicing and Underground Distribution
        • All remaining courses

Still Have Questions?

Details about preparing and administering tests using the new system will be covered in a webinar scheduled for July 2nd, at 3:00 PM Eastern.