Thirty-seven University of Hawaiʻi students took a meaningful step toward future careers in sustainability at a workforce development event held April 14, at UH Mānoa. The event brought together graduate and undergraduate students from across the UH system to explore internship and job pathways with local professionals working in Hawaiʻi’s sustainability sector.
“I had a great time seeing my classmates and gathering with other like-minded students to discuss future career opportunities,” Madison Lee, a UH Mānoa student, said. “I had the privilege to hear the perspectives of many accomplished panelists, more specifically that no matter what you study, or how long it may take to pursue, or wherever you decide to end up—you will always be able to integrate sustainability and resiliency if you remain determined.”
Hosted by the Institute for Sustainability and Resilience at Mānoa and Office of the Vice President for Academic Strategy, the event featured a panel discussion and open forum with sustainability professionals from across Oʻahu. Speakers shared career insights and internship opportunities while answering students’ questions about entering the field.
“It was a great experience to interact with current and prospective ISR students who are interested in making a difference,” said Jeremy Kimura, director of the Fresh Water Sector at Ulupono Initiative. “I look forward to the next opportunity to share my knowledge with these young professionals so that they can build on my experiences working towards a thriving water future.”
The event was part of the University of Hawaiʻi Internships initiative, which helps students transition from college to career by connecting them with real-world experiences across the state. Funded by the Strada Educational Foundation, the initiative supports the UH System Strategic Plan, which prioritizes workforce development as one of its four main imperatives.
