Shilling Forge Consulting, LLC launched a VR therapy project named Skip Rizzo to help Ukrainian refuges.

Shilling Forge Consulting brings together decades of experience across psychology, education, technology, and policy to help organizations responsibly design, evaluate, and scale emerging technologies that improve lives. Founded and led by Russell Shilling, Ph.D., a retired Navy Captain and Aerospace Experimental Psychologist, the firm reflects over 25 years of leadership across DARPA, the U.S. Department of Education, ONR, and the American Psychological Association. My work focuses on translating ambitious ideas into evidence-based programs and products that advance learning, mental health, and inclusion. ⸻ 🔹 What I Do I advise startups, philanthropies, and public agencies on strategy, research, and responsible innovation in: • AI and XR for education, mental health, and training • Serious games and immersive learning environments • VR therapy, pain management, and cognitive rehabilitation • Technology policy, ethics, and evaluation • Cross-sector program design and R&D management ⸻ 🔹 Who I Work With My partners include foundations, nonprofits, and EdTech innovators—from Sesame Workshop to the Gates Foundation, Autism Speaks, and early-stage startups. I help bridge research, policy, and practice to accelerate technologies that promote learning, resilience, and well-being. ⸻ 💡 Let’s Collaborate I believe meaningful innovation aligns purpose with evidence. If you’re building AI, games, immersive media, or education technologies designed for real-world impact, I can help you design, validate, and scale what’s next.