Forging a Skilled Workforce to Meet Emerging Readiness Requirements

Strengthening and Expanding Careers, Fortifying the Defense Industrial Base and Securing Hawai‘i’s Role in the Indo-Pacific Region

Hawai‘’’s strategic location in the Indo-Pacific demands a highly skilled trades workforce to sustain U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) operations and strengthen economic resilience.

Ku‘i Hao, which means “to forge”, is advancing Hawai‘i’s workforce by training industry-ready professionals. In collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce Hawai‘i and its Military Affairs Council, Hawai‘i Defense Alliance, University of Hawai‘i, Hawai‘i Department of Education, Ku‘i Hao is equipping the next generation of skilled workers.

Why it Matters

The U.S. manufacturing sector faces a significant shortage of skilled trade professionals—a challenge that is even more critical in Hawai‘i due to our geographic isolation and strategic importance.

Ku‘i Hao creates opportunities that will:

Strengthening the defense industrial base by developing a highly skilled trades workforce critical to U.S. military operations in the Indo-Pacific.
Equipping Hawaii’s workforce with the technical skills needed for high-demand careers in machining, welding and advanced manufacturing that will allow them to live, work, and stay Hawai‘i with high-paying, meaningful careers.

Key Initiatives

Ku‘i Hao is building Hawai‘i’s workforce through the following efforts:

Training & Engagement Events: Hosting upskilling events for middle and high school teachers, and discovery fairs and competitions for students to spark interest in manufacturing careers and build foundational skills.
Advanced Manufacturing Training Facility: Establishing a state-of-the-art training center at Honolulu Community College to equip students, incumbent workers, and active duty with industry-ready skills.
Internship to Job Program: Connecting students with hands-on experience at DoD commands and private sector companies, ensuring a seamless transition from training to the workforce.

These programs are designed to foster careers that enable individuals to live, work and stay in Hawai‘i.

Join Us in Shaping the Future

Ku‘i Hao is building a workforce ready to meet the Indo-Pacific’s growing defense and manufacturing needs. By training skilled professionals and strengthening supply chains, we are reducing the tyranny of distance and ensuring Hawai‘i’s readiness for the future. Whether you’re a student, educator, or industry leader, Ku‘i Hao provides the training and expertise needed to sustain Hawai‘i’s role in national defense and economic resilience.