The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) has announced the recipients of the 2024 Workforce Development Hero Awards. The awards recognize individuals and institutions for their contributions to workforce excellence across Hawaiʻi.
“Ensuring that businesses have access to skilled workers, while helping job seekers find meaningful employment, is essential to equipping both local businesses and workers with the talent and expertise needed to thrive as Hawaiʻi’s economy evolves,” said DLIR Director Jade T. Butay.
The awards drew nominations from across the state, highlighting various efforts in advancing employment opportunities and skill development.
“Each of this year’s Workforce Development Heroes has gone above and beyond in creating pathways to opportunity,” said Workforce Development Council Executive Director Bennette Misalucha. “Their efforts have empowered individuals, strengthened communities, and contributed to the overall resilience and competitiveness of Hawaiʻi’s workforce.”
The finalists for the 2024 Workforce Development Hero Award include Michael Cardenas from MC3 Technologies, Katie Hokama from Hilo Benioff Medical Center, Tracey Kaneshige from DLIR's Workforce Development Division, Joy Korkowski from Kaiser Permanente, Diane Oda from DLIR's Workforce Development Division, Constancio Paranal III from Honolulu's Department of Economic Revitalization, Erick Pascua from DLIR's Workforce Development Division, Jenna Silifaiva from County of Maui, Jeffrey Tom from WorkHawaiʻi Job Readiness Program, Deborah Uemura (Nakashima) from Hawaiʻi National Guard Work for Warriors Program, Bridget Orsatelli from ʻŌmaʻo Ranch Lands, and Ashley Wang from Booz Allen.
A special Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to David Lassner, President of the University of Hawaiʻi. Lassner is being honored for his 46 years of service at UH. Under his leadership, UH has set records in research and graduation rates while focusing on affordable education and workforce advancement. His recent $1 million donation aims to support graduate students in technology fields.
Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz will be recognized as Legislator of the Year for his commitment to workforce development in Hawaiʻi. As Chair of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, Dela Cruz has been instrumental in initiatives like the Hele Imua Internship Program which received $5.3 million funding in 2022.
The Future of Work 2025 Conference will honor seven awardees on September 30 at the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaiʻi.