through increased events, strengthening one-on-one relationships, and enhancing community ties. Membership remains central to the association’s vitality. Numbers have rebounded post-pandemic, returning to pre-2020 figures, driven by clear demonstrations of value and targeted benefit programs. Among these benefits are significant savings for small businesses, including group-rate medical insurance through local insurer HMAA and an affordable 401(k) partnership with Transamerica and Morgan Stanley. These initiatives underscore the association’s commitment to supporting the backbone of Hawaii’s economy—the small businesses. Education and training stand prominently in the association’s offerings. Their Construction Training Center of the Pacific, established in 2009, provides critical safety and skill-building programs. Courses range from OSHA certifications to specialized training in scaffolding, fall protection, and first aid, alongside leadership development tailored for industry-specific management skills. ADDRESSING THE EMPLOYMENT GAP One standout initiative is the Pre-Apprenticeship Construction Training (PACT) program, launched to address the chronic shortage in skilled tradespeople. PACT provides underserved populations with comprehensive, hands-on training, empowering participants with practical skills in construction, safety protocols, blueprint reading, and sustainable building practices. Since its relaunch, five cohorts have graduated, with many quickly securing stable, lucrative employment in Hawaii’s thriving construction sector. “PACT not only addresses workforce shortages but also provides meaningful pathways out of poverty,” highlights the association’s spokesperson. The program is reshaping perceptions about trades careers, emphasizing the lucrative and immediate benefits compared to traditional college pathways laden with debt. CONSTRUCTING A BRIGHT FUTURE Looking forward, the association foresees significant challenges and opportunities. The critical focus remains addressing Hawaii’s workforce housing 42 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 08
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx