At the Hawaii Carpenters Apprenticeship & Training Fund (HCATF), we’re thrilled to recognize and celebrate the achievements of our newest group of journeymen who successfully completed our rigorous apprenticeship program. We celebrated these talented individuals on June 1st, 2024, at our Journeymen Recognition Ceremony, commending their achievements as they step into their new roles as professional tradesmen and women, ready to make a significant impact in the industry.
A Rigorous Path to Success
As any HCATF apprentice or graduate knows, the road to becoming a journeyman is no easy feat. Our programs combine rigorous classroom learning with physically demanding hands-on training, as well as hard work out in the field.
This year’s graduates completed their intensive curriculum over several years, starting with basic carpentry skills and progressing to mastering advanced construction and project management techniques by the end of the journey.
“Thorough training starting with the basics ensures each of our journeymen are well-prepared to tackle the complexities of modern construction projects,” commented HCATF’s Executive Director Edmund C. Aczon. “Our comprehensive curriculum ensures there are no gaps in their skills and abilities. This makes them true masters of their crafts and sets them a cut above any competition.”
Graduation Highlights
This year’s Recognition Ceremony was held at our state-of-the-art Training Centers in Kapolei and was a momentous occasion filled with joy, inspiration, and camaraderie. Families, friends, and industry leaders gathered to honor the new graduates and acknowledge their unwavering commitment, hard work, and dedication throughout their training journey.
The ceremony featured a breakfast buffet, generously provided by the Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters, as well as tours of the facilities, which showcased displays of class projects constructed during hands-on training. Honorees and their guests later assembled in the ballroom to hear from industry leaders who are instrumental to HCATF’s programs. Training Coordinator Leo Clemete led the celebration with a heartfelt invocation, followed by remarks from Aczon.
Inspirational Words
During the ceremony, Aczon delivered an inspiring message to the new journeymen, highlighting the vast opportunities that lie ahead in their careers. He encouraged them to embrace ongoing education and professional growth, emphasizing that their dedication and perseverance will pave the way for a successful and fulfilling future. His words resonated deeply, reinforcing the belief that their hard work will yield remarkable results.
Special guests at the event included Eric Reiny of the Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters; Conrad Murashige, Chairman of Shioi Construction & HCATF Co-Chair; Jade Butay of the Workforce Development Division – Director of Department of Labor & Industrial Relations; and Dr. Karen C. Lee, Chancellor of Honolulu Community College. Each of these speakers congratulated the honorees, acknowledging their hard work both in classes and on the job. The newest journeymen were encouraged to continue their education and advancement through HCATF, opening the door to further leadership opportunities with their new, hard-earned status in the industry. The program flowed flawlessly and the words of wisdom were well-received, thanks to emcee, Gina Mangieri.
Impact on the Community
The impact of these new journeymen extends beyond the construction sites. By providing high-quality training and creating job opportunities, HCATF apprenticeship programs help strengthen the local economy and support community development. The success of our graduates also serves as an inspiration for future apprentices, showcasing the potential for growth and advancement within the industry.
With Hawaii’s construction industry booming due to a surge in development projects across the islands, there is a high demand for skilled carpenters, drywallers, and millwrights. To meet this growing demand, we are dedicated to expanding our programs and partnerships. We encourage aspiring carpenters to explore the opportunities available through our apprenticeship programs and join us in building a stronger, more resilient Hawaii.
We are also committed to supporting the professional development of our apprentices and journeymen through continuing education, upgrade courses, and specialized training. We take pride in our HCATF ‘ohana and look forward to seeing their contributions continue to shape our community.
Congrats, Grads!
Congratulations once again to the Class of 2024 Journeymen. Your hard work and dedication have paved the way for a brighter future in Hawaii’s construction industry. The entire HCATF team eagerly anticipates the remarkable contributions that these talented individuals will make to the industry. Equipped with skills, knowledge, and passion, they are poised to shape the future of carpentry in Hawaii and beyond. Your achievements are a testament to your hard work and unwavering dedication. May your journey as professional carpenters be filled with fulfillment, growth, and continued success as you leave an indelible mark on the construction industry.
