The Mixed Reality Lab (MxR) was established at the University of California Institute for Creative Technologies in 2008, with the goal of exploring emerging human-machine interactions and coming up with innovative hardware, platform, and system solutions along the way. The resulting research in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) pushed immersive technology out of the lab and introduced it to the public, directly impacting the development of high-end VR headsets like the Oculus Rift and inspiring the creation of low-cost VR headsets like Google Cardboard. MxR has since broadened its scope to include immersive content design, adaptive optimization techniques for virtual assets, intelligent system integration into virtual experiences, complex data visualization, and next generation interface development. From training and operations, to education and entertainment, MxR continues to create impact through rapid prototyping and thoughtful approaches to human centered design.