National Grid has introduced an AI-powered digital avatar named Aimee Silva to support the training and knowledge sharing of its engineering apprentices as the company upgrades the electricity network across England and Wales. Developed in collaboration with frog, the creative consultancy arm of Capgemini Invent, Aimee is designed to preserve and disseminate the expertise of National Grid’s experienced workforce to younger engineers.
Aimee, installed at the electricity transmission training centre in Eakring, Nottinghamshire, offers apprentices 24/7 access to a vast repository of technical and practical knowledge drawn from the company’s engineers. The avatar interacts with users on a large screen, responding to questions that range from basic topics apprentices might hesitate to ask about to more advanced engineering subjects. Aimee’s design includes a full human height figure equipped with a hard hat and high-visibility workwear, reflecting National Grid's workplace culture. The avatar also uses gestures and emotional cues to create a conversational and engaging learning experience.
Priscilla Li, head of strategy, data, AI, and technology at frog, explained that Aimee is intended not only to safeguard the existing knowledge within National Grid’s skilled workforce but also to scale this expertise for future generations. Sam Fry, a digital product, project, and programme leader at frog, noted that trainees use Aimee both to explore new topics and to test their own understanding of previously acquired knowledge.
The AI avatar underwent a 12-week trial, yielding promising results. According to the trial data, 82 percent of apprentices reported learning something new within five to ten minutes of interacting with the avatar. Additionally, 98 percent said that engaging with Aimee helped support their learning or revision, and 94 percent found the experience highly engaging. These outcomes helped dispel initial concerns that the avatar might be perceived as a gimmick.
The development team emphasized the importance of creating an authentic and culturally relevant avatar rather than a generic digital assistant. Li highlighted that each organisation has a unique identity, and capturing that character was crucial in making Aimee relatable and effective for National Grid’s apprentices.
The project illustrates how artificial intelligence can be applied to facilitate skills development and knowledge retention within industrial training environments. By providing apprentices direct access to institutional expertise, National Grid aims to maintain a strong, knowledgeable workforce capable of supporting the ongoing modernization of the country’s electricity infrastructure.