HCATF Opens New Training Center in Kapolei
The Hawaii Carpenters Apprenticeship & Training Fund (HCATF) is proud to announce the opening of its new 46,000-square-foot training facility in Kapolei Business Park. Unveiled on August 5, the $16 million investment is a testament to HCATF’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge technology and training to the next generation of skilled workers in the building industry.
Innovation Meets Tradition
Construction of the state-of-the-art facility began in May 2020 and was completed in July 2021, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of apprenticeship training in Hawaii. The project was a collaboration between Avalon Development, Ushijima Architects, and Ralph S. Inouye, Ltd., showcasing the best of modern design and construction techniques. A brief ceremony to mark the opening included key figures such as HCATF Executive Director Edmund C. Aczon, Ron Taketa, and Conrad Murashige, with a traditional blessing by Kahu Kordell Kekoa and Christine Camp of Avalon presiding as master of ceremonies.
Commitment to Excellence
The new facility is a leap forward in enhancing the efficiency and quality of training for Hawaii’s carpenters and millwrights. With the construction industry rapidly evolving with technological advancements, HCATF is ensuring its members are ahead of the curve. “We are committed to producing highly trained union members who will strengthen the quality and efficiency of our industry,” said Aczon during the ceremony.
Expanding Opportunities
The additional space and resources provided by the new facility will allow HCATF to increase its apprenticeship capacity and diversify training programs. The center currently averages over 400 recruits annually in carpentry and drywall and is set to expand enrollment further. Additionally, the introduction of a new millwright program underscores the commitment to broadening the scope of skilled trades training available in Hawaii.
Economic and Industry Impact
As Hawaii continues to experience a construction boom, the industry’s role as a pivotal economic force is undeniable. With tourism as its partner, the construction sector serves as a vital engine driving the state’s economy. The new training center is not just an investment in facilities and technology but in the future workforce that will sustain and innovate the building industry in Hawaii for years to come.
The Takeaway
HCATF’s new training center in Kapolei is more than a building; it’s a beacon for the future of skilled trades in Hawaii. As we embrace this new era of training and technology, the facility stands ready to support the apprentices and journeymen who will continue to build and maintain the vital infrastructure of our state. It’s an investment in the people and the future of Hawaii’s construction industry.
