Coffee Break: Honoring the Engineers Who Shape Hawai‘i 
ILLUSTRATION DUSTIN KODA

Having been married for more than a decade, I’m well aware that Valentine’s Day is all about roses and romance.

But this month in this space, I’m giving my flowers to all the engineers who help keep our local building industry operating. National Engineers Week, recognized from Feb. 18 through Feb. 24 this year, is a reminder of the essential role they play in shaping our islands.

These folks are the unsung heroes behind every solid foundation, every innovative structure and every safe design. From new condominiums that dot metro Honolulu’s skyline to infrastructure that keeps communities connected, they help drive progress in every corner of the construction industry.

They solve problems, create solutions and ensure built structures can stand the test of time. Engineers collaborate with architects, contractors and project managers to turn ambitious ideas into reality, ensuring every project is as safe as it is groundbreaking.

If you’re looking for someone to admire this month, look no further than the engineers!

This month also offers a chance to inspire the next generation of engineers. Whether through mentorship programs, educational outreach or simply sharing your story, take the time to consider playing a role in fostering the future of our industry.

Here’s to building the future, one blueprint at a time!

PRAYERS UP

As this month’s issue goes to press, I’ll have successfully made it through a major surgical procedure. The process of diagnosing and dealing with a significant health challenge reminds me to remind all of you to stay on top of your personal well-being.

We live in a place and work in an industry where there isn’t much time to focus on ourselves. There’s always a deadline looming, a task to be completed or someone asking for a favor. But don’t forget to give yourself some space and practice self-care — whatever that might mean to you.

If all goes well according to His plan, I’ll be back in the saddle by the end of the month. See you then!

Aloha,
Jason Genegabus
Senior Editor, Building Industry Hawai‘i
[email protected]

 

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