HONOLULU (KHON2) — A major workforce development event is underway this morning, introducing hundreds of students to career paths in the construction industry.
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WakeUp2Day’s Chris Latronic reported live from the lower Halawa parking lot at Aloha Stadium, where he spoke with the Director of Public Affairs for Pacific Resource Partners about the growing need for construction workers across the state.
The 16th Annual Hawaii Construction Career Days, organized by the Hawaii Department of Transportation, is taking place today and tomorrow, September 19 and 20, 2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Aloha Stadium.
This event provides middle and high school students with a hands-on look at the various career and educational opportunities available in Hawaii’s construction industry.
It is part of the current administration’s efforts to prepare students for future careers.
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“Our department is proud to give back to our community,” said Ed Sniffen, Director of the Department of Transportation. “Our young people will see the wide range of jobs available in construction, which is vital for keeping Hawaii’s industry thriving. We’d also like to thank the Federal Highway Administration, our corporate and union sponsors, and the many volunteers who made this event possible.”
Over 1,700 students and teachers are participating, each receiving a backpack filled with personal protective equipment, including a hard hat, safety goggles, and earplugs to ensure safety while navigating the event.
Students will have the chance to explore heavy equipment like excavators, crane simulators, and scissor lifts, all under close supervision.
The “Trades” area will feature representatives from various unions, including carpenters, painters, electricians, laborers, sheet metal workers, masons, operating engineers, plumbers, and roofers. Students can familiarize themselves with hand tools associated with these trades.
Throughout the day, attendees can visit booths with information on educational opportunities and career pathways in the construction field.
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Representatives from the University of Hawaii College of Engineering and Honolulu Community College will also be available to answer questions about their programs.
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