IN THIS ISSUE

Aloha Chamber Members,

As we move forward, active engagement in the public policy process is critical, whether as an advocate or serving in the public sector. One way to get involved is to serve on boards and commissions statewide that address various purposes to shape, regulate, and monitor policies. This is an effective way to get your voice heard in government. Your voice will help improve communities today and for future generations.

Currently, the Governor’s office is seeking qualified volunteers to fill vacancies. For more information, go to www.boards.hawaii.gov. You’ll be able to see the list of various boards and commissions. If you would like to know more about a board, click the link. When applying, you’ll be able to select up to three boards. Have a letter of interest and resume ready to upload with your application. The application process is now open. If you have questions, contact Sharon Ibarra at sharon.s.ibarra@hawaii.gov or call (808) 586-0295.
 
Also, the Safe Access Oahu program goes into effect on September 13. Yesterday, the City and County of Honolulu, in partnership with the Chamber, Hawaii Employers Council, and Torkildson Katz Hetherington Harris and Knorek Law Firm held a webinar to describe the program in detail, and answer questions. The webinar can be accessed here along with additional information and resources.
 
Finally, our 171^st Annual Luncheon on October 1 has turned virtual. Please join us and our keynote speaker, Harry Moseley, Global Chief Information Officer of Zoom, for an exciting program.

Laulima & mahalo,

ADVOCATING FOR BUSINESS

Save the Date: WEBINAR - Plastic and Disposal Foodware Changes for Maui and Honolulu
Tuesday, September 28, 2021

The Chamber will host a business impact update on plastic and disposal foodware changes that will be forthcoming for Maui County and the City and County of Honolulu starting January 1, 2022. Undoubtedly, businesses are facing challenges during the pandemic and with the uncertainty in business plans going forward, let’s understand the scope of changes that will affect your business and how to prepare for them.
Maui County – On April 21, 2020, Maui County adopted Bill 52 to ban single-use plastic foodware. The bill takes effect January 1, 2022 and bans the sale or use of disposable plastic and polystyrene such as to-go containers, plates and bowls, cups (hot and cold), straws, stirrers, utensils.
 
City and County of Honolulu – C&C of Honolulu enacted Bill 40 with two parts on plastic foodware ban. Part I went into effect January 1, 2021 and Part II will be effective January 1, 2022. Part II includes the sale or service of disposable plastic and polystyrene such as to-go containers, plates and bowls, cups (hot and cold), straws, stirrers, utensils.
Save the date for Tuesday, September 28 from 9-10 am for a webinar to learn more.

SUPPORTING OUR MILITARY

Hawaii Defense Alliance is Live!

Hawaii Defense Alliance brings together industry, government, educational institutions and community resource partners to work together and help increase local business opportunities while identifying challenges to the local defense industrial base and offering solutions. https://hawaiidefensealliance.org

EDUCATION & WORKFORCE

Hawaii’s Engineering industry is buzzing with activity as industry leaders work statewide to build Hawaii’s STEM and engineering talent pipeline. The Engineering Sector Partnership - made up of 70+ local engineering firms and STEM educators - jumped right into the new school year and has been busy planning virtual and in-person activities that engage local students and raise awareness about the in-demand, fulfilling career opportunities within the Engineering field in Hawaii. The group previously identified three topics as high-priority areas to focus on: Career Awareness, Increasing Interest of Girls in STEM, and Improving Math Readiness. Through cohesive collaboration and strategic planning sessions held this summer, we are pleased to share progress in three areas:

• 26 female Engineers have volunteered to serve as guest speakers,  sharing their expertise and career advice to local students in hopes of increasing interest among female students to pursue STEM career paths. 
• Members of the Engineering Sector Partnership hosted teacher externships offering local educators a first-hand look into day-to-day operations within the industry while helping them shape future engineering curriculum for students. Mahalo to externship hosts Bowers & Kubota and GPRM Prestress. 
• 28 Engineering Sector Partnership members have signed up to offer work-based learning activities such as guest speaking, job shadows and internships through ClimbHI Bridge. ClimbHI Bridge is the online platform being used statewide by the Hawaii Department of Education to connect educators with working professionals to inspire students about future career opportunities.

BUILDING OUR MEMBERSHIP

TOGETHER, WE STAND