Empowering Our People, Strengthening Our Island
Cultivating a Skilled Workforce for a Thriving Hawai'i.​
Who We Are
Hawaii County Workforce Development Board (HCWDB)
The Hawai'i County Workforce Development Board (HCWDB) serves as the local policy-making body responsible for the oversight of federally funded workforce programs under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
Managed by the County of Hawai'i Department of Research and Development, our board brings together leaders from business, education, labor, and government to create a strategic vision for a vibrant, resilient, and skilled local economy. With strategic partnerships through the American Job Center Network (AJC), the HCWDB bridges the gap between education and employment to ensure every resident has the tools to succeed.
What Do We Do?
How We Serve Our Community
The Hawaii County Workforce Development Board is the engine behind our island’s economic vitality. We serve as the primary bridge between the ambition of our local job seekers and the evolving needs of Hawaii County’s employers. Our mission is to build a resilient, skilled, and future-ready workforce that reflects the unique spirit and potential of our home.
For Our Job Seekers
We believe everyone deserves the chance to build a meaningful career. We provide more than just job leads; we provide the pathway to success. Through our administration of WIOA resources, we fund high-quality, industry-recognized training programs that equip you with the certifications and technical skills required to compete for today’s best jobs. From initial career coaching at the American Job Center Hawaii Hilo to specialized training placement, we guide our service providers to ensure you have the tools to reach your professional goals.
For Our Local Businesses
A strong economy relies on a skilled workforce. We partner with local employers to understand the specific challenges you face, from talent shortages to specialized skill sets. We align our training investments with the current and future demands of our local industries, helping businesses reduce turnover, increase productivity, and grow right here in Hawaii County. When our local businesses succeed, our entire community thrives.
For Our Training Partners
We are committed to maintaining a high standard of excellence for workforce preparation. By partnering with approved Eligible Training Providers (ETPs), we ensure that public funds are invested in programs that truly deliver results. We actively recruit and vet training institutions that share our vision of a qualified, capable workforce, providing them with the platform to reach motivated students and build lasting industry connections.