Introducing “The Future of Work 2024” Conference
If you have been following our recent posts, you may be aware that we are committed to understanding, shedding light on, and addressing the complex challenges faced by workers in our state. As we meet with community organizations, government agencies, or my neighbors on Hawaiʻi Island, we are consistently impressed by the strong relationships, the dedication to finding solutions, and the willingness to take risks on new approaches when stakeholders come together in one place to unite around a common need.
This is why we are excited to share details about an upcoming inaugural event being hosted by the State of Hawaiʻi Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaiʻi, and the state Workforce Development Council: the Future of Work 2024 Conference. Scheduled for Monday, October 30 from 7:30 a.m. to noon at the Sheraton Waikiki, this conference is a unique opportunity for all stakeholders in Hawaiʻi's job market to learn about emerging trends within and across our key industries. It seeks to delve deep into the ever-evolving landscape of work, especially as we navigate global trends like AI, the gig economy, and the ramifications of the post-COVID-19 era. For those who would prefer to watch from home, there will be an option to watch live via webcast, as well.
So, why is this event important? In addition to its carefully planned schedule and diverse range of speakers, the conference provides an opportunity for us to come together around current labor market projections and think about where our workforce is going and how we can best prepare and support our workers.
Hawaiʻi's employment ecosystem, with its diverse sectors from tourism to technology, offers a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Factors like high living costs, wage disparities, and the impact of tourism on local wages require urgent and comprehensive addressal. The Future of Work 2024 Conference promises deep dives into these areas, offering critical insights from esteemed leaders such as Mufi Hanneman (Tourism), Jennifer Sabas (Defense), Cheryl Wathall (Construction), Carl Hinson (Healthcare), Ed Barnabas (Technology), Mark Glick (Energy), Ryan Yamane (Public Sector) and Dr. Paul Brewbaker, who will present a crucial 2024 Economic Forecast.
The Future of Work 2024 Conference is an essential gathering for all stakeholders in Hawaiʻi's job market. The diverse range of perspectives it offers provides a vital foundation for understanding the employment landscape. As attendees ourselves, we will be thinking a lot about ways in which our soon-to-be released “A Good Job in Hawaiʻi” framework can provide actionable ways for industry and employers to be responsive to the needs of workers across our state. If you have the chance to attend and see us there, say hello: we would love to hear your thoughts on the role of worker voice in shaping the future of work in our state.
