Building Hawaii’s Future:

Local Construction Professionals Mentor High School Student in Hands-On Workforce Training

HONOLULU (March 25, 2025) – The next generation of Hawaii’s builders is getting a head start, thanks to a unique mentorship initiative at Kalaheo High School. A hands-on learning experience is shaping not just a campus garage—but a future career—through the guidance of industry professionals from the Building Industry Association of Hawaii (BIA Hawaii).

When Kalaheo High School student Xander set out to construct a garage for the school’s ATV and golf cart, he never expected his project to turn into a real-world workforce training opportunity. Through a partnership between Hawaii Workforce Pipeline, Inc. and BIA Hawaii, Xander has gained professional mentorship, materials, and industry expertise, bridging the gap between classroom learning and career readiness.

Local Builders Invest in Hawaii’s Future Workforce

Upon hearing about Xander’s project, BIA Education Manager Eva Marie Whitworth quickly rallied industry support. Several top construction companies stepped up to mentor Xander, provide resources, and guide him through real-world problem-solving.

Participating Organizations:

• Evan Fujimoto, Graham Builders
• Alan Shintani Inc.
• Chad Hilweh, Hilweh Builders
• Tyler Williams, Honsador Lumber
• Marc Rinker, Gentry Homes

With one-on-one site visits and direct mentorship, Xander is learning construction planning, project management, and hands-on building techniques—skills that will serve him far beyond this school project.

“This initiative isn’t just about constructing a garage—it’s about constructing career pathways for Hawaii’s youth,” said Roseann Freitas, CEO of BIA Hawaii. “As the demand for skilled labor grows, BIA Hawaii is committed to ensuring students have access to industry mentorship, real-world training, and career opportunities. By supporting students like Xander, we are investing in Hawaii’s next generation of builders.”

For Xander, the experience has been life-changing.

“It’s incredible to work alongside professionals and learn from their experience,” he shared. “I’m gaining skills I never thought I’d have in high school.”

BIA Hawaii sees this initiative as part of its larger mission to close the construction industry workforce gap by supporting students interested in skilled trades. Through programs like Pre-Apprenticeship Construction Training (PACT) and hands-on mentorship, BIA Hawaii is actively working to provide tuition-free, real-world training for Hawaii’s future workforce.

Media Opportunities

PHOTO & VIDEO ALERT: Media outlets are invited to capture visuals of Xander working alongside BIA Hawaii mentors at the construction site. On-site interview opportunities are available with Xander, mentors, and BIA Hawaii leadership.

Related Images

For media inquiries or to schedule a visit:

Eric Baranda

eric@biahawaii.org

808-629-7501

About the Building Industry Association of Hawaii

The Building Industry Association of Hawaii (BIA Hawaii) is the voice of the construction industry and Hawaii's leading not-for-profit trade organization chartered by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in 1955, with more than 300 professional members across the industry including developers, contractors, suppliers, realtors, and associate companies. BIA Hawaii is a proud supporter and advocate of housing at all price points, and our members work together to build the living spaces that kama'aina call home. Together, we educate, advocate, and grow. Industry Elite Partners are Castle & Cooke Homes, Armstrong Builders and Gentry Homes. 2025 Corporate Sponsors include Astrategy Marketing, Honsador Lumber, Hawaiian Dredging, Lung Rose Voss Wagnild, American Floor & Home, Hawaiian Electric Company, and Inspired Closets Hawaii.

Visit Facebook and Instagram to stay informed of government relations activities, industry news, and www.biahawaii.org for a membership directory, a calendar of events, and our class schedule.

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