Nearly 800 students from Highlands Intermediate School and Pearl City High School explored future college and career opportunities at the first Pearl City Complex Career Connect Fair at Leeward Community College on November 7.
The event brought together about 400 eighth- and 400 ninth-graders to explore high school and college pathways through hands-on activities and conversations with 22 industry employers and 12 Leeward CC Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, including culinary arts, digital media, mechatronics, automotive technology, and courses within the Office of Workforce Development.
“I was most excited to see the digital media equipment,” said Aura, a student at Highlands Intermediate School. “When I saw it all, I thought, ‘Holy smokes!’”
Classmate Brayden shared that the event broadened his sense of possibility.
“The career fair helped me see my different options after high school. I had fun, and it was a pretty unique experience,” he said.
Connecting coursework, college and careers
The fair helped students see the clear connections between middle and high school coursework, college programs and in-demand careers in Hawaiʻi’s workforce.
“We’re always excited to welcome students to our campus and introduce them to the many opportunities available through our CTE programs,” said Ron Umehira, dean of CTE. “Leeward CC is here to support students as they begin to envision their futures and take meaningful steps toward their career goals.”
Joseph Halfmann, principal of Pearl City High School, said the fair gives students an important look at how their education connects to real-world possibilities.
“We are committed to shaping the next generation of innovators and global citizens,” said Halfmann. “This event is an important reminder to our students that the opportunities to make an impact start right here, connecting their education to the vital needs of the Pearl City community.”
Lance Tanouye, principal of Highlands Intermediate School, added, “It’s exciting to see the alignment between our schools and Leeward Community College as we work together to build pathways that support workforce development for Hawaiʻi‘s future.”
Organizers say this first-of-its-kind collaboration lays the groundwork for future opportunities that will continue to guide students as they plan for life after graduation.