Hawaiʻi Skilled Trades Workforce Analysis
May 2023
Created by: SMS Research, Chamber of Commerce Hawaiʻi, Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, Harold K.L. Castle Foundation
This report examines the current and future job opportunities within Hawaiʻi's skilled trades sector, focusing on occupations such as construction, plumbing, electrical work, and clean energy trades. It is intended for educators, policymakers, industry leaders, and workforce development organizations. By analyzing labor market data and stakeholder feedback, the report aims to highlight key workforce trends and provide actionable recommendations to align training and education programs with industry needs. This effort will help ensure that Hawaiʻi's workforce is well-prepared to meet the growing demands of the state's infrastructure and clean energy goals.
KEY INSIGHTS
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Construction and Extraction: High demand for occupations such as carpenters, electricians, and plumbers, with competitive pay and growth potential.
Clean Energy: Significant growth in occupations related to clean energy, such as Solar Photovoltaic Installers, driven by Hawaiʻi’s clean energy goals.
Apprenticeships: Numerous apprenticeship programs available, providing earn-and-learn opportunities, avoiding traditional tuition costs and enabling quick entry into the workforce.
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High turnover rates and inconsistent employment due to the short-term nature of projects.
Skill gaps and lack of alignment between educational programs and industry needs.
Aging workforce and difficulty attracting younger generations to the trades.
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Improve alignment between local training providers and the Department of Education for outreach and professional development.
Market careers in the trades more effectively, emphasizing high wages and benefits.
Expand pre-apprenticeship programs for high school students through industry partnerships.
Address Student Readiness: consider developing math readiness courses tailored to preparing students for entrance exams for various skilled trades apprenticeships.
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Clean energy projects are expected to create significant employment opportunities, particularly in Solar Photovoltaic Installation, battery storage, and renewable energy maintenance.
Upskilling the current workforce in new technologies is essential for continued employment and supporting Hawaiʻi’s clean energy goals.
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Integrate community-defined job quality criteria into workforce programs.
Provide solutions for financial assistance for expenses such as books, equipment, transportation, and childcare.
Promote sector partnerships for better collaboration and development of new training programs.
