For seven members of HCATF’s inaugural UBC Military Veterans Program Hawaii cohort, September marked both an ending and a beginning.
After eight intensive weeks of training at HCATF’s Kapolei facility, Aron Cabacungan, Joreese Jackson, Joel Ormeno, Shemaiah Peretania, Nehemiak Ross, Davion Smith and Jason Terwilliger became the first graduates of UBC MVP Hawaii.
The milestone was about much more than completing a training program. It represented the beginning of a new path after military service.
Building on Skills That Already Matter
With more than 100,000 veterans across Hawaii, the UBC MVP Hawaii program is an approved Department of Defense SkillBridge pre-apprenticeship designed to prepare transitioning service members for careers in the skilled trades.
Participants receive hands-on construction training and industry-recognized certifications while preparing to move directly into apprenticeship opportunities in the construction trades. The program builds upon strengths veterans already bring with them, including teamwork, discipline, leadership and a commitment to getting the job done.
“The UBC MVP Hawaii program gave me a clear direction for what comes next after military service” – Shemaiah Peretania, graduate
Peretania credited the program with giving him the training and opportunity to transition into a union apprenticeship, where he can continue developing his career and providing for his family.
