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

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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

• What are the biggest opportunities in workforce development within the skilled trades sector?

  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.

• What are the key challenges facing the skilled trades workforce in Hawaiʻi?

  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.

• How can early exposure and education improve skilled trades workforce development?

  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.

• What is the role of clean energy in skilled trades workforce development?

  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.

• What strategies can improve job quality and satisfaction in the skilled trades sector?

  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.