Launch Your Trades Career – Your Way!

Aloha! Are you a Native Hawaiian student at Kaua‘i Community College ready to jumpstart your career in Trades Technology? The Ka‘ika‘i A‘o Project, in partnership with Alu Like, Inc.’s NHCTEP, offers flexible, paid internships that let you learn on the job, gain real-world experience, and build the skills you need to succeed after graduation.

Why Internships Matter

Internships are a critical step in launching your career. They:

• Help you apply classroom learning to real-world projects.
• Allow you to explore your field of interest and identify career paths.
• Build professional skills and confidence before entering the workforce.
• Expand your network of mentors and industry connections.

Even students taking individual trades courses are eligible for paid work-based learning opportunities.

What Ka‘ika‘i A‘o Offers

• Hands-On Learning on Campus: Gain practical skills while complementing your coursework.
• Community-Based Internships: Work with local businesses in your field or area of interest, bridging the gap between the classroom and workforce.
• Flexible Scheduling: Internships are designed to fit around your class schedule, making it easy to gain experience without disrupting your studies.
• Career Planning & Professional Development: The Ka‘ika‘i A‘o Project supports your career growth with workshops and guidance, including:
  • Résumé and cover letter writing
  • Mock interviews
  • Career development planning
  • Job search strategies
  • Networking skills
  • Professional etiquette and workplace readiness
  • Professional Connections: Meet mentors and industry professionals who can help guide your career path.

Who Can Apply

Open to all eligible Native Hawaiian students enrolled in Applied Workforce Technology programs and/or courses, including:

• Accounting
• Automotive Technology
• Business
• Carpentry Technology
• Culinary
• Electrical Installation and Maintenance
• Electronics Technology
• Natural Science
• Select Early College or Running Start students taking general/vocational education courses but are interested in careers inApplied Workforce Technology (AWT).

Benefits of the Program

• Gain real-world experience relevant to your chosen field.
• Fill learning gaps between classroom knowledge and workforce demands.
• Develop career-ready skills to excel professionally.
• Build a strong foundation for a successful career in your field.

Take the Next Step!

Ready to launch your career on your terms? Learn more about the Ka‘ika‘i A‘o Project please contact:
Kimi Nagahisa, Career Track Coordinator
Phone: 808-245-8285
E-mail: kimiwn@hawaii.edu