Power Pathways Program empowers Maui's future energy workforce

Developing the next generation of skilled energy professionals requires more than classroom instruction, it takes meaningful, hands-on experiences that connect people to purpose. That is exactly what Hawaiian Electric's Maui Power Pathways Program, now in its second year, set out to accomplish, in partnership with the University of Hawaii Maui College (UHMC).

Designed to introduce local residents, living on Maui, Molokai and Lanai, to careers in power generation, the 10-week workforce development program provides participants with immersive, real-world experiences inside Hawaiian Electric's power plants, where they work alongside experienced employees to gain technical knowledge, industry exposure, and a deeper understanding of the essential role electric utilities play in serving the community for the islands they call home.

For Katelyn "Katie" Pelangka, the program offered far more than career exploration.

"I had no idea anything about the power plant or what goes on behind that fence," she shared. "The past 10 weeks have been very interesting."

Like many residents, Katie had never seen the work that happens behind the scenes to provide safe, reliable electricity for Maui. Through the program, she gained firsthand experience working alongside operators at the Kahului Power Plant during both day and evening shifts, witnessing the teamwork, technical expertise, and dedication required to keep the island powered 24/7.

The opportunity also introduced her to career pathways she had never known or considered. After spending 12 years as a pharmacy technician and later utilizing her commercial driver's license while supporting the Lahaina wildfire debris removal effort, Katie was searching for a stable career that offered opportunities for growth and long-term success.

"I heard really good things about Hawaiian Electric," she said. "I wanted a career that I could grow with, for stability and a career that is sustainable where I don’t have to work two or three jobs."

As the weeks progressed, however, Katie realized the program was about much more than finding a job. It came with more knowledge, including being mindful about energy consumption and conservation.

"It gave me a whole different outlook on electricity," she said. "Now I go home and make sure the lights are off to save energy when I’m not in need of it. I know there's a crew working very hard to keep the power on for our community."

Her perspective shifted from simply seeing electricity as something people rely on every day to understanding the commitment, teamwork, and expertise required to provide an essential service that supports our homes, businesses, hospitals, schools, and the broader Maui community.

"It's very humbling," she reflected. "You think it's as simple as pushing a button, but then you see all the effort and everything that goes into generating power, and how everyone works together as a team."

Throughout the program, participants also discovered the many career opportunities available within Hawaiian Electric, from operations and maintenance to mechanics, welding, and other skilled trades. For Katie, it reinforced that Hawaiian Electric offers not only meaningful careers, but opportunities for continuous learning, advancement, and service.

This year's cohort also marked an important milestone with its first female participant joining the program. Katie hopes her experience encourages others to consider careers in the energy industry.

"I feel like anybody can do it," she said. "If you put your mind to it and you're willing to learn, someone is always there to help you. That's what stood out to me, the teamwork."

As Katie looks ahead to pursuing a career with Hawaiian Electric, she hopes others will take advantage of the opportunity if given the chance.

"This was such a rewarding experience," she said. "You don't realize everything that goes into keeping everyone's lights on until you see it firsthand."

By investing in local residents through programs like Power Pathways on Maui, Hawaiian Electric is helping build the next generation of skilled energy professionals while creating meaningful experiences and career opportunities that strengthen both the company and the communities it serves.