Jim DiMascio
Chief operating officer, Virtusphere, Binghamton, N.Y.
CAST members since 2006
CAST Education chair, 2008-present
What does your company do?
Virtusphere develops and markets a locomotion simulation interface that allows a person to walk or run within a virtual environment. Standing inside a hollow sphere and wearing a wireless, head-mounted display, the user moves freely across what appears to be an urban battlefield, a beach in Maui or just about anyplace else. Virtusphere can be used for training personnel in dangerous occupations such as the military or law enforcement, and for a wide variety of other applications in areas such as health and fitness, education and entertainment.
What’s your role in the company?
Since we’re a startup, one of my main responsibilities has been to help organize the company and launch us in November 2008. As COO, I assist in the day-to-day running of the company. I’m also responsible for marketing and sales.
Tell us about the special challenges you face in your job.
This is a disruptive technology, designed to completely change the way we train people. We have to demonstrate that there’s a better way to do things, and we have to continually remind people that this product is out there and available. Also, it’s hard for people to understand Virtusphere unless they see it in action. You can’t print a brochure or create a video that does it justice. So we have to take it where people can see and test it.
What training and prior experience led you to this point in your career?
I have an AAS in computer science from Broome Community College. I spent 18 years working at BSB Bank and Trust. My last title was administrative vice president of facilities and services—basically operations. One of my new functions, from 2000-2005, was as a community development officer, helping to develop municipal and commercial relationships. After Partners Trust bought our bank in 2005, I served as executive director of the Greater Binghamton Coalition. Then in 2008, I decided to join Virtusphere.
Why do you belong to CAST?
I’m a strong advocate of networking with peers from every kind of organization and with vendors. CAST is a great opportunity to bounce marketing ideas off your peers, but also to be able to reach out to others when you’re looking to print materials, create Web sites, etc. There is a fountain of information within the CAST membership.
What rewarding experiences you’ve had as a member of CAST?
Every month when I attend a CAST meeting, I learn something new, both from the tremendously knowledgeable speakers and from other members. I’ve had two very proud moments during my membership. One was when a large group of members volunteered at the United Way during the Day of Caring on September 11. That reminded me of what a great group CAST members are, and what a wonderful community we live in. The other was when two of the students who won our CAST scholarships in 2009 attended the Genesis awards dinner. What a wonderful reception the CAST members gave the two young ladies who won this year.
To learn more about Virtusphere, call 607-778-6923 or visit www.virtusphere.com.
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