🌈 Inspiring Success Stories: How Hawaiʻi Workforce is Transforming Lives

Written By Ben Kiblinger

The journey back to the workforce—or starting a new career path—is often filled with challenges. But Hawaiʻi Workforce is is proving to be the essential stepping stone, helping residents overcome incredible barriers to find meaningful, stable employment.

Funded through the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), Hawaiʻi Workforce is an American Job Center. Hawaiʻi Workforce and its partners provide critical support to underemployed and unemployed individuals on the Big Island.

From Stay-at-Home Mom to Electrical Engineer

After 20 years Lyn Kaahihue, of Waiʻanae on Oahu, found herself starting over. “I was a stay-at-home mom for 20 years," she shared. In July 2013, she left her marriage with only two suitcases and her three children.

The Challenge: Needing education to secure her family's future.

The Solution: She enrolled at Leeward Community College and received assistance from the American Job Center.

  • American Job Center helped with tuition assistance and the purchase of books.

  • They assisted in completing her resume and getting it posted on HireNet HawaiÊ»i—a vital resource for job searching, financial services, and workplace training information.

The Result: She graduated with an Electrical Engineering degree and now works for an electrical contractor. "My family and I are doing wonderful," she proudly stated.

A Second Chance: Finding Confidence and a Career

Growing up, Kevin Aki Jr. faced homelessness and bullying that caused him to drop out of high school in the 10th grade.

The Challenge: Lack of self-confidence, life skills, and a high school diploma.

The Solution: Through a partnership between Hawaiʻi Workforce and Goodwill Industries of Hawaiʻi’s ʻŌiwi Laulima program, he got the comprehensive support he needed.

  • He earned his competency-based diploma.

  • He received workforce training and was taught essential life skills, including how to write checks and search for employment.

  • He started with a work experience program, which helped build his confidence.

The Result: He became a full-time employee with the County of Hawaiʻi’s Rapid Response Program, helping others affected by economic downturn events, like the COVID-19 pandemic. His former mentor beamed, “I'm so proud of Kevin. He has come a long way from the kid who was being bullied to this young man who’s just blossomed."

An Engine Mechanic's Career Pivot After 19 Years

Kelly Ruidas worked as an engine mechanic for Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar for 19 years. When the company closed its operations, he found himself suddenly displaced.

The Challenge: Starting a new career in his 40s.

The Hawaiʻi Workforce Solution: Kelly took advantage of the Displaced Worker Program through the American Job Center on Maui. He enrolled in an online program with the University of Hawaii–West Oʻahu.

The Result: He graduated with a degree in Public Administration. Kelly's advice for others is clear: “If you have the desire to change your career after so many years, just do it. The resources are available to you; all you have to do is put in the work."



From Retail to County Employee

Cora Balocan's job at Kmart was shut down. She sought assistance from the American Job Center on Kaua‘i for training.

The Challenge: Needing new skills after a retail career ended.

The Solution: Cora took courses in business basics and computer skills at KCC's Office of Continuing Education and Training.

  • The AJC then provided Cora with a six-month on-the-job training program at the County of Kaua‘i.

  • The program was beneficial for the employer, who could “select the right person for the job" and provide direct training.

The Result: Cora was hired full-time by the County of Kaua‘i immediately following her training. It was a perfect fit, and as she says, “It feels great. It’s rewarding."

Finding a Vocation with a Disability

Chris Gaoiran grew up with a love for cooking. For him, a key barrier to employment was having a disability.

The Challenge: Gaining vocational skills and securing a stable job.

The Solution: Chris joined the Work Hawaiʻi Youth Program, which helps at-risk youth. Through a partnership with Windward Community College and the Disability Employment Initiative:

  • The program helped pay for his uniform, shoes, and a knife set.

  • Chris earned a CULINARY certificate, which "opened up a lot of possibilities."

The Result: Chris quickly landed a job! He completed his paid work experience on a Friday and was hired as a regular, full-time employee the following Monday. "AJC taught me how to be prepared. It feels great having a job," Chris concluded.

🎯 Your One-Stop Shop for Workforce Success

The American Job Centers are a true one-stop shop for job seekers and employers. This collaboration of local and state organizations is dedicated to addressing the diverse workforce needs of Hawaiʻi, whether you are:

  • Displaced workers

  • Youth or Older workers

  • Formerly incarcerated or homeless persons

  • Individuals with disabilities

Their goal is straightforward: to help every job seeker find employment and access the training, education, and support to succeed in the workforce.

Are you interested in visiting Hawaiʻi Workforce on the Big Island or connecting an American Job Center location on Maui, Kauaʻi, or ʻOahu, or would you like to learn more about a specific program mentioned in these stories?

Ben Kiblinger