As 2024 continues to show no signs of slowing down, we spring ahead into March with a prime opportunity to help shape the career trajectories of a new generation of construction professionals — but we also need the local industry to get involved in order to succeed in this mission.

In an ambitious move to bridge the gap between education and employment, the American Job Center Hawaii (AJCH) presents a hiring event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 16 at Dole Cannery. The collaborative effort supported by the Hawai‘i Department of Education and at least 13 high schools is poised to potentially transform the lives of more than 450 local students with the opportunity to step into the workforce with a clear path to full-time employment.

With jobs at the AJCH hiring event expected to command salaries of at least $18 per hour, these roles are expected to not just employ recent graduates, but also empower them with the ability to dive into careers with on-the-spot interviews and job offers on April 16.

According to organizers, hundreds of students are expected to attend and learn more about on-the-job training, apprenticeships and details on creating a tangible path to a satisfying career. What’s still needed are local construction industry professionals willing to participate and provide employment opportunities to these motivated graduates.

This day is about showing these young adults their community believes in them, values them and is ready to invest in their future. It’s a commitment to our youth, their growth and the sustainable development of our workforce.

Here’s to shaping the careers of tomorrow’s leaders. My thanks to the NUCA Hawaii Chapter, which represents our local utility and excavation contractors, for bringing my attention to this important event.

Aloha,
Jason Genegabus
Senior Editor
[email protected]