Free Workforce Trainings Expanded to More Hawai’i Residents
More Hawaiʻi residents are now eligible to apply for free short-term trainings leading to industry credentials in the resilient sectors of healthcare, technology and the skilled trades through the Hana Career Pathways program. The University of Hawaiʻi Community Colleges’ program that has been serving unemployed and underemployed residents was recently expanded to include those who are currently employed.
The Hana Career Pathways program connects students with work-based learning opportunities such as paid internships and guaranteed interviews with local employers, and also prepares students to apply for registered apprenticeships and related degree programs.
More than $2 million in Hana Career Pathways funding from the U.S. Department of Education is available for tuition this year. Eligible applicants receive tuition assistance for courses and other training costs such as books and industry certification exam fees. The program is free for most eligible participants, since many of the trainings provide a 100% tuition subsidy to cover all costs. Wrap-around services are also offered to students including college and career advising, referrals to community partners with supportive services, and other financial assistance.
