Jennica Bellanca is a biomechanical engineer with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). She earned a bachelor’s degree in bioengineering, and dual master’s degrees in bioengineering and mechanical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh. Ms. Bellanca has been working in the mining industry for more than 12 years as a human factors, safety researcher. Her work has primarily focused on virtual reality (VR) and simulation, hazard recognition, collision avoidance, and haul truck health and safety. She is currently leading a collaborative effort to develop and evaluate a VR application for mine rescue training.