Gary Albitz, managing director at Imua Onipā‘a, instructs participants during a workforce development program. Photo courtesy Megan Philbin

Imua Onipāʻa recently welcomed its inaugural in-person workforce development cohort at the Kahului YMCA, marking a major milestone for the organization.

Imua Onipāʻa is a Maui-based nonprofit that works to create career pathways across Hawaii through training, mentorship and support that gives residents the skills they need to thrive in high-demand industries.

The new cohort brings together participants from Maui, Oahu and Hawaii Island for a program that seeks to build new career pathways and overcome systemic barriers.

Its launch marks the first step in an 18-month pilot designed to expand into a full Center of Excellence, and the participants are engaging in technical training, mentorship and community-based projects while preparing for careers in sectors such as technology, agriculture, energy and infrastructure.

Overall, Imua Onipā says it marks the beginning of a new chapter in advancing workforce resilience across Hawaii.

“This cohort represents the future of Hawaii’s workforce,” said Nicholas Winfrey, executive director, in a statement. “What inspired me most was the resilience and determination of each participant. Together with our partners, we’re building more than career opportunities, we’re building long-term pathways for families and communities to thrive.”

According to the organization, the day of the launch was full of energy, collaboration and breakthroughs as participants realized how Imua Onipāʻa’s blend of mentorship, skills training and partner support could help them navigate what program leaders call the “career chasm” — or the critical gap between training and sustainable, high-quality employment.

“For years, we’ve known that many talented individuals are eager to step into high-demand careers but face systemic roadblocks,” said Gary Albitz, managing director. “Seeing participants connect with resources, mentors and each other today shows that those barriers can be broken.”

For more, go to www.imuaonipaa.org.