An apparatus and method for simulating a mobile robot at a work site, wherein the apparatus comprises: one or more sensors for mapping an environment of a work site; and a processor configured to execute instructions to operate the apparatus to: display images of the environment captured by the one or more sensors on a display; perform mapping of the environment based on inputs of the one or more sensors; detect one or more objects in the environment generate graphics of a virtual mobile robot for displaying in the environment displayed on the display; and receive user input to control movements of the virtual mobile robot in the displayed environment, wherein the virtual mobile robot is configured to move in the displayed environment to overcome the one or more objects detected in the environment.