Press Release: CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HAWAII INVITES BUSINESSES TO JOIN SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS TO STRENGTHEN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PIPELINE
April 13, 2026
HONOLULU, HI – The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is inviting businesses and industry leaders to participate in Sector Partnerships, a collaborative, industry-led initiative designed to strengthen Hawaii’s workforce and create pathways into high-demand careers. There are currently seven Sector Partnerships representing key industries critical to Hawaii’s economy: Clean Energy, Creative Industries, Engineering, Healthcare, Information Technology, Natural Resources, and Transportation.
“Sector Partnerships give employers a direct voice in shaping Hawaii’s future workforce,” says Lord Ryan Lizardo, VP of Education at the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii. “By collaborating with education and community partners, we are creating clear pathways for locals to pursue rewarding careers right here at home. Strengthening these connections is essential to retaining our local talent and ensuring that Hawaii’s businesses and communities remain strong and sustainable for the long term.”
Industry-led and community-supported, Sector Partnerships serve as a vital mechanism for aligning workforce development with the evolving needs of high-demand industries. By bringing together employers, educators, and community organizations, these partnerships help cultivate a strong local talent pipeline, create meaningful career pathways, and support long-term economic resilience. Central to this effort is the shared goal of providing residents with opportunities to build successful careers in Hawaii, helping to retain homegrown talent and reduce the state’s ongoing brain drain.
Upcoming Sector Partnerships Meetings
All meetings will be held virtually via Zoom from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Participants are encouraged to RSVP online at: cochawaii.org/sector-partnerships.
- Healthcare – was held Wednesday, April 8
- Engineering – Wednesday, April 15
- Creative Industries – Thursday, April 16
- Natural Resources – Tuesday, May 5
- Information Technology (IT) – Wednesday, May 6
- Clean Energy – Wednesday, May 13
- Transportation – Thursday, May 21
To join Sector Partnerships, visit cochawaii.org/sector-partnerships.