Hawai‘i subcontractors — already essential on most jobsites — are now even more critical to project success.
Builds are bigger. Timelines are shorter. New technology and materials are revolutionizing construction overnight.
Hawai‘i’s expanding construction boom and labor deficit are magnifying these trends, fueling demand for elite subcontractors who consistently perform at the highest levels.
Who are Hawai‘i’s top subcontractors of 2025? What are their strengths? What do they bring to this year’s projects?
To find out, Building Industry Hawai‘i surveyed the state’s Top 25 Contractors of 2024 and asked them to name their choice of subcontractors in five crucial trades: HVAC/Fire Stopping, Carpentry, Concrete & Foundations, Electrical and Painting.
Along with local companies, many categories in this year’s list include out-of-state subcontractors, indicating construction opportunities in Hawai‘i are attracting interest nationwide.
Hawai‘i’s Red-Hot Subs of 2025 also reveal their keys to success, their outlook for the industry this year and the projects that are taking them to the top.
FIRST PLACE
Top 2024 Projects:
• Maui Bay Villas, Phase 2
• Molokai Hospital HVAC Replacement
• City & County of Honolulu ESPC, Phase 2: Fasi Building AHU 10 & 11 Replacement
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• Mauna Kea Beach Hotel Renovation
• Hale Mō‘ili‘ili
• Coco Palms Resort
• Maui Bay Villas, Phase 3
• The Queen’s Medical Center Emergency Dept.
Q: What are your keys to success as an HVAC/Fire Stopping subcontractor?
A: “Strong working relationships with our customers (general contractors, architects, developers, owners). Talented and skilled employees who collaborate well with the project teams and know how to problem-solve. Being timely and urgent. Strong project pre-planning.”
Q: What’s your outlook for Hawai‘i construction in 2025?
A: “Construction continues to be strong going into 2025. The biggest risk to the continued strength of Hawai‘i’s construction industry is resourcing constraints. Finding and keeping talent is increasingly difficult as the cost of living in Hawai‘i continues to increase. Additional risks include increasing residential construction litigation and escalating insurance costs.”
– Stephen Leis, President
SECOND PLACE
Top 2024 Projects:
• Victoria Place
• Daniel Kahikina Akaka VA Clinic
• Hōkūao
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• The Park Ward Village
• Honolulu Control Facility ATCT & Base Building FIA Modernization & OFDPS Replacement
• Hale Koa Hotel HVAC Modernization
• Wheeler Army Airfield Aviation Unit Operations Building
• Farrington High School Gymnasium & Music Building
Q: What are your keys to success as an HVAC/Fire Stopping subcontractor?
A: “Our keys to success as a subcontractor are teamwork and communication with general contractors. Our team and staff working collaboratively with general contractors are keys to our success.”
– Joseph Barrios, Executive Vice President
THIRD PLACE (TIE)
Kekoa Nicolas
Top 2024 Projects:
• Kilolani Spa at Grand Wailea
• Marriott Vacation Club, Waikiki
• Hilton Waikoloa Village Palace Tower
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• Ālia 888 Ala Moana
• Hawai‘i Public Housing Authority, Phase 1A
• ‘Iolani School Arrillaga Student Center
• Odex Kapolei LLC Sales and Distribution Facility
• Honouliuli WWTP, Phase 1C
Q: What are your keys to success as an HVAC/Fire Stopping subcontractor?
A: “Honesty and transparency with the general contractor. Collaborating with the team to deliver a product that is on-time and within budget.”
– Kekoa Nicolas, Hawaii Division Leader
THIRD PLACE (TIE)
Top 2024 Projects:
• Asia Pacific (a medical facility specializing in plastic surgery)
• Pearl Hotel
• Lima Ola
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• UH Mixed-Use Student Housing
• Hyatt Place/Hyatt House at Ho‘opili
• Marriott Ocean Club
• Kauanoe O Kōloa
• Aloha Iā Halewilikō
Q: What are your keys to success as an HVAC/Fire Stopping subcontractor?
A: “To succeed as a mechanical subcontractor, focus on delivering high-quality workmanship and maintaining strong relationships with clients and suppliers. Invest in skilled labor and effective project management to ensure timely and cost-efficient project execution. Prioritize safety and adaptability to navigate industry changes and enhance your reputation.”
– Richard Gordon, Owner/COO
ALSO NOMINATED: Commercial Plumbing Inc., Honolulu Fire Protection LLC, Kauai Mechanical Inc., Nu Era Air Conditioning, Standard Sheetmetal Mechanical Inc.
FIRST PLACE
Lito Alcantra
Top 2024 Projects:
• Victoria Place
• Grand Wailea
• Wailuku Apartments
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• Ulana Ward Village
• The Park Ward Village
• Ālia 888 Ala Moana
• Kahoma Village
• Hale O Pi‘ikea
Q: What are your keys to success as a carpentry subcontractor?
A: “We value quality, integrity, responsibility in getting our work done and on time. We also make it a point to communicate as a team.”
– Lito Alcantra, President
SECOND PLACE
Top 2024 Projects:
• Sky Ala Moana
• Makamae by Gentry
• Lima Ola
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• Kalae Ward Village
• Ka Haku
• Hyatt Place/Hyatt House at Ho‘opili
Q: What are your keys to success as a carpentry subcontractor?
A: “For 50 years, we have provided quality work, honesty, integrity and working closely with our GC partner to deliver and install our work complete and without issues. As a manufacturer and installer, we have control over the entire process from submittals to punch list. We are the only company in Hawai‘i that can provide this for one of the most visible parts of a residential project, and we have a vested interest in making this go smoothly and efficiently. Our customers like that. Customer satisfaction is our objective.”
– Brent Matson, President
THIRD PLACE (TIE)
Top 2024 Projects:
• Kai Olino, Phase 1
• Lima Ola
• Aloha Iā Halewilikō
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• Rice Street
• Kauanoe O Kōloa
• Kai Olino, Phase 2
Q: What are your keys to success as a carpentry subcontractor?
A: “We’re always committed to do what we say we are going to do. We work well with all of our other trades because we understand that construction consists of numerous moving parts, and we have the knowledge and experience needed to adjust accordingly.”
– Patrick Gill, President
THIRD PLACE (TIE)
First Pacific Builders LLC
808-738-4988
firstpacificbuilders.com
Top 2024 Projects:
• Montage Kapalua Bay Hotel
• Halekulani Hotel
• Kali‘u Sales Office
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• MKH Finish Carpentry
• Hale Mō‘ili‘ili
• Montage Kapalua Bay Hotel
• Odex Kapolei LLC Sales and Distribution Facility
Q: What are your keys to success as a carpentry subcontractor?
A: “A combination of reliability, quality craftsmanship and clear communication. Meeting deadlines and consistently delivering top-notch work builds trust with general contractors and clients, setting the subcontractor apart from the competition. By combining a skilled workforce, good financial management and a dedication to continuous improvement, subcontractors can establish a reputation for excellence and secure a steady flow of opportunities, leading to long-term growth and success.”
– Anacleto Alcantara Jr., CEO / RME
ALSO NOMINATED: BEK Inc., Coastal Construction Co. Inc.,
Island Heritage Builders Inc., M2K Construction LLC,
S&G Construction Inc.
FIRST PLACE
Wasa Electrical Services Inc.
808-839-2741
wasahawaii.com
Top 2024 Projects:
• Kona Village Resort
• The Park on Ke‘eaumoku
• Daniel Kahikina Akaka VA Clinic
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• Honouliuli WWTP, Phase 1C
• School Street Affordable Housing
• Hōkūala Hotel
• USGS Hilo Research Facilities
• Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
Q: What’s your outlook for Hawai‘i construction in 2025?
A: “[We] forecast 8 percent to 10 percent growth with our new president’s policies. Military, infrastructure and affordable housing will be driving the growth.”
– Ronald Yee, President, CEO, COO
SECOND PLACE
Top 2024 Projects:
• Maui Bay Villas, Phase 2
• Grand Wailea Spa
• Kapalua Village Temporary Housing
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• Baldwin High School
• Maui Bay Villas, Phase 3
• Wailea Beach Resort
• HM45 Beach Club
• Kahoma Village
Q: What are your keys to success as an electrical subcontractor?
A: “Listen carefully to your client’s expectations and most important items and focus on solutions.”
– Frederic Steineck, President
THIRD PLACE
MH Electric Construction Inc.
808-833-8499
[email protected]
Q: What are your keys to success as an electrical subcontractor?
A: “Being humble, responsive and responsible.”
– John Yoo, President
Top 2024 Projects:
• Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility Building 149, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH)
• Bachman Hall, UH-Mānoa
• P-013 Communications/Crypto Facility, JBPHH
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole
• SUBPEA B661, JBPHH
• Building 118, Wheeler Army Airfield
• Building PN 93668, Wheeler Army Airfield
• Building 2077, Schofield Barracks
John Yoo
ALSO NOMINATED: A-1 A-Lectrician Inc., American Electric,
Cache Valley Electric Co., Electricians Inc., Higher Power Electric LLC, Jack Endo Electric Inc., M. Wanatabe Electrical Contractor Inc.,
Paul’s Electrical Contracting LLC, Ron D Electrical LLC
FIRST PLACE
McClone Construction Co.
206-437-9091
(Hawaii Area Manager)
mcclone.net
Top 2024 Projects:
• Parkway Village at Kapolei
• The Park Ward Village (Ongoing into Q2 2025)
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• Parkway Village at Kapolei
• Kuilei Place
• Ālia 888 Ala Moana
• School Street Senior Affordable Housing, Phase 1A
• Kalae Ward Village
Q: What are your keys to success as a concrete and foundations subcontractor?
A: “McClone Construction Company has always focused on the efficiency of our field operations … Our local engineering and management teams work hard to ensure our carpenter/labor teams are provided accurate concrete outline drawings and formwork system plans that allow streamlined flow from pour to pour. This helps us to achieve schedule commitments and turn over quality concrete structures to our clients.”
– Chris Moes, Hawaii Area Engineering Manager
SECOND PLACE
Kelikai Inc.
808-841-8284
kelikai.com
Top 2024 Projects:
• Kalae Ward Village
• ‘Iolani School Arrillaga Student Learning Center
• HPHA School Street Senior Affordable Housing
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• Sand Island WWTP
• Kuilei Place
• P-956 & P-973 Bachelors Enlisted Quarters, Marine Corps Base Hawaii
• Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort
• Laieloa Stream Bridge
Q: What are your keys to success as a concrete and foundations subcontractor?
A: “The two main keys to our success over the years are [attention to detail and communication]. In the drilling and grouting world, every project is a little different, and one small detail that is missed can ruin a job and cause potential delays. … Discussing with our GCs the path ahead and any potential roadblocks or bottlenecks really helps all parties keep things moving and staying productive …. The more communication the better!”
– Damien Enright, President
THIRD PLACE
Healy Tibbitts Builders Inc.
808-487-3664
healytibbitts.com
Top 2024 Projects:
• P-209 Dry Dock 3 Replacement (aka Dry Dock 5), JBPHH
• Apra Embarkation Facility, Naval Base Guam
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• X-Ray Wharf, Naval Base Guam
• Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz, Guam
• Pohoiki Boat Ramp
Q: What are your keys to success as a concrete and foundations subcontractor?
A: “Healy Tibbitts has a long-term view for its subcontract pursuits. As both a prime contractor and a subcontractor, Healy Tibbitts has a wealth of experience and knowledge that goes beyond its typical deep foundation and dredging subcontract work. Healy Tibbitts is a proven problem-solver and always collaborates with the prime contractor, owner and designers to provide cost-effective and time-saving solutions for project issues.”
– Rick Heltzel, President
ALSO NOMINATED: Robert A. Bothman Construction,
Edwards & Sands Construction Co., Elevated Construction LLC, Foundations Hawaii Inc., Largo Concrete Inc., Pacific Foundation Inc., Reef Development of Hawaii Inc.
FIRST PLACE
Jade Painting Inc.
808-677-5233
jadepainting.com
Top 2024 Projects:
• Amazon Warehouse, Sand Island
• Molehu Homes, Ho‘opili
• Walmart, Kunia
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• Ala Moana Hotel
• Montage Kapalua Bay Hotel
• Hawai‘i Convention Center
• BYU TVA Housing Project
• Hilo Lagoon Center
Q: What’s your outlook for Hawai‘i construction in 2025?
A: “We are optimistic about 2025’s promising future! With a positive economic outlook, substantial government investment and decreasing interest rates, the painting industry is poised to thrive through the vital development of residential and commercial projects.”
– Donald Ka‘anapu Jr., Estimator/Project Manager
SECOND PLACE
JD Painting & Decorating Inc.
808-841-7100
jdpainting.com
Top 2024 Projects:
• Waioha II and Nanea II, Koa Ridge
• Maunakea Towers
• The Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort, Lihue
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• Pālolo Homes
• Hoku‘ula Maui
• Maui War Memorial Stadium
• Kōloa Village
• Uahi Ridge
Q: What are your keys to success as a painting subcontractor?
A: “One key to success as a subcontractor is helping to create a positive work environment on the jobsite. Practice and promote proper safety protocol to ensure everyone’s well-being. Perform the work in a manner that reflects your company’s standards and expectations.”
– Sheldon Ibara, Business Development Manager
THIRD PLACE
The Zelinsky Company
808-682-1321
zelinskyhawaii.com
Top 2024 Projects:
• Romer House Waikīkī
• Kapalua Village Temporary Housing
• Honouliuli WWTP, Phase 1B
Upcoming 2025 Projects:
• Moana Surfrider, Waikiki Beach
• Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club
• Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
• Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa
• Sand Island WWTP, Phase 1
Q: What are your keys to success as a painting subcontractor?
A: “Our success is largely attributed to the effective communication between our field personnel and office staff, as well as maintaining a strong working relationship with the clients. We uphold professionalism through quality, fairness and transparency.”
– Alee Bowden, Project Manager
ALSO NOMINATED: Akira Yamamoto Painting Inc., BEK Inc.,
Quillopo Painting Inc., W.E. Painting Inc., Yama’z Painting Service LLC
