Workforce and Economic Development

Building a skilled, thriving, and globally engaged Hawaiʻi Island community through economic diversity, workforce development, and community engagement.

ʻIliahikū

About Our Name

Ka ʻIliahi Kū Hoʻoilina o Keawe (The Lasting Fragrance of Keawe) poetically honors Keaweaheulu, a trusted advisor and strategist to the young Kamehameha. Just as ʻiliahi (sandalwood) retains its fragrance long after it is gone, Keaweaheulu’s wisdom and counsel left an enduring impact, influencing Kamehameha’s rise and shaping future generations. This metaphor highlights the vital role of advisors in guiding emerging leaders and the far-reaching, generational influence of strategic guidance.

Just like Keaweaheulu, Vibrant Hawaiʻi's network of work based learning Intermediaries serve as strategists and advisors to emerging leaders and our future workforce: bridging gaps between education and employment by connecting students with hands-on experiences, employability skills, and opportunities to build meaningful connections within their chosen career pathways. The program prioritizes equitable access for students in rural and under-resourced districts, ensuring opportunities are available to all.

Key Features of Work Based Learning:

Place-Based Intermediaries: A multi-disciplinary team of local organizations serve as intermediaries that support and maintain WBL networks. These organizations include ʻEwalu Industries, Mālaʻai, and the Hawaiʻi Science and Technology Museum, and together with Vibrant Hawaiʻi, will serve every public middle school and high school on Hawaiʻi Island. For students interested in Digital Design/Film and Media Production, Vibrant Hawaiʻi partners with Nā Leo TV to offer industry-specific learning online and island wide.

Expansive WBL Activities: From guest speakers to job shadowing and from workplace tours to internships, Intermediaries provide a diverse menu of options for students to engage in real-world learning experiences.

Adulting 101 Workshops: Young professionals offer in-classroom training to prepare students for internship placements and workforce readiness, while also developing essential life skills.