The 59th annual (HICSS), hosted by the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa , convened global thought leaders at the Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa Maui, January 5–9. It brought together more than 1,300 scholars, industry experts and policymakers from more than 42 countries.

Widely recognized as one of the world’s premier forums on digital and socio-technical systems, HICSS once again served as a showcase for the future of information technology and systems science.

This year’s conference received 1,559 research paper submissions, of which 727 were accepted following a rigorous peer-review process. Authored by more than 2,150 researchers, the accepted papers spanned artificial intelligence and data analytics to digital government, cybersecurity, healthcare system, and the future of work.

“As conference chair, I am continually impressed by the depth, rigor and relevance of the work presented at HICSS,” said Tung Bui, professor of information technology management and the Matson Navigation Company Chair of Global Business. “Emerging technologies—especially generative [which can create new content] and agentic AI [which can take action or make decisions]—were at the center of many discussions. Equally important were conversations about how these technologies reshape work, education and their unintended consequences for marginalized and underserved communities.”

The conference also brought a boost to the local economy. Among the more than 1,300 attendees, at least 30% were accompanied by family members. Organizers estimate the event generated roughly $5 million in revenue for the state during the first 10 days of the year.

More on HICSS

Founded in 1968, HICSS is the longest-running working scientific conference in information technology management. Its distinctive working-conference format emphasizes interaction, debate and collaboration, fostering close engagement between academic researchers and industry practitioners. Over its 59-year history, HICSS proceedings have generated more than 21,000 published papers and exceeded six million downloads worldwide. Google Scholar consistently ranks HICSS among the most cited conference series in its field.

HICSS will celebrate its 60th anniversary in January 2027 at the Hilton Waikoloa Village on Hawaiʻi Island, marking six decades of global impact in advancing systems science and responsible digital innovation.

A University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa team won the Best Novelty and Impact Award at an international hackathon for a project designed to transform how community health workers (CHWs) support patients during and after remote check-ins.

The winning project, “,” acts as a “digital co-pilot,” utilizing speech analysis and artificial intelligence to flag possible signs of hidden distress. The system analyzes both what a patient says and how it is said—through the tone and pacing of a patient’s speech—to detect possible signs of emotional or mental distress and sends a discreet alert to the CHW along with a context aware suggestion to guide a more supportive response.

The goal of Aurion is to reduce missed emotional cues and workload of CHWs so that they can focus more on giving people the care they need. Beyond real-time support, the tool streamlines post-conversation administrative workflows. The tool is designed to reduce post-conversation paperwork for CHWs by about 70% by automatically filling out forms for them.

The ����Ӱҵ Mānoa team included:

• Akib Sadmanee (PhD student in and a master’s graduate)
• Quang Loc Lam (PhD student in and a master’s graduate in economics)
• Fahim Yasir ( data systems analyst and a master’s graduate in )

“We wanted to create something that could make a real difference, especially here in Hawaiʻi,” Sadmanee said. “Tools like this have the potential to improve care in communities where access and distance can be real challenges.”

The hackathon was held December 5–6, at the ����Ӱҵ Mānoa Campus Center, and was part of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Automatic Speech Recognition and Understanding (ASRU) Workshop held December 6 to December 10 at the Hyatt Regency, Waikīkī. The event brought together students, researchers and professionals to develop solutions to real-world challenges in speech and language technology.

The team presented its work during the main ASRU 2025 program verbally in front of judges and also as a poster to the general audience, and received a certificate of achievement.

Three University of Hawaiʻi at ����ԴDz� teams were among nine honored as winners of the 10th Annual (HACC), held on November 22 at ����Ӱҵ West Oʻahu.

The event, organized by ����Ӱҵ and the (ETS), brought together students, amateurs and professionals to develop solutions for real government and community needs.

College division winners:

1. OPEN TO WORK (����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz�), led by Junle Yan, for the ETS Project Review App
2. Nintendo DS (����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz�), led by Samantha Limon, for ����Ӱҵ Pathfinder AI
3. 3 Lil Minions (����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz�), led by Lionel Derrick Roxas, for Department of Human Resources Development’s AI Screener

Finalists presented projects addressing four challenges from ����Ӱҵ and state partner agencies: an ����Ӱҵ screening tool for job applicants, a standardized IT project review platform, ����Ӱҵ’s HR Navigator and ����Ӱҵ Pathfinder AI.

Nearly 120 attendees watched teams showcase applications focused on improving hiring processes, modernizing government tech systems and helping students navigate academic and career pathways. A total of $18,000 in prizes was awarded across high school, college and professional divisions.

Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke praised participants for applying creativity to issues that affect Hawaiʻi residents daily, emphasizing the challenge’s role in inspiring the next generation of innovators.

“Over the past 10 years, the HACC has shown how creativity and technology can directly improve the lives of Hawaiʻi’s people,” Luke said. “Seeing these students and young professionals tackle real government challenges gives me tremendous hope for the future. Their ideas, energy and dedication will help build a stronger, more innovative Hawaiʻi.”

The University of Hawaiʻi has launched an important workforce development initiative to highlight career-relevant credentials that students can earn alongside their ����Ӱҵ degree—credentials that give graduates a competitive edge in the job market.

These Industry-Recognized Credentials (IRCs) are highly sought after by employers and are nationally portable, certified by third-party agencies. They cover fast-growing fields such as healthcare, skilled trades and IT. IRCs can boost career readiness, help workers stay current with industry changes, and open doors to a wide range of jobs.

����Ӱҵ already offers some IRCs. Honolulu Community College’s associate in science degree in the Computing, Security, and Networking Technology program (CSNT) prepares students for a variety of entry-level IT positions. Certain CSNT courses also prepare them to take specific industry certification exams such as the Cisco Certified Network Associate, COMPTIA A+ and Security+.

����Ӱҵ System Director of Workforce Development Christine Beaule said, “This exciting collaboration between ����Ӱҵ, the Hawaiʻi Department of Education, the State and industry partners will help signal which credentials are most in demand for students and lead to good jobs.”

In addition to IRCs, ����Ӱҵ is also recognizing Industry-Valued Credentials (IVCs)—badges, certifications or licenses that may not have national recognition but are highly valued by local employers. ����Ӱҵ is inviting faculty and program administrators to identify programs where students already earn IRCs or IVCs, or where new ones could be integrated.

Proposals can be submitted starting this fall through a , with guidance available from the Office of the Vice President for Academic Planning and Policy (avpapp@hawaii.edu).

provides guidance to Hawaiʻi’s current and future workforce on the industry-recognized or industry-valued credentials most often requested by potential employers. Workforce development is also a core pillar of the ����Ӱҵ System’s strategic plan.

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) transforms higher education, the University of Hawaiʻi is launching a new systemwide office to meet the challenge and establish itself as a national leader. The ����Ӱҵ Office of Academic Technology and Innovation (OATI) will guide the integration of emerging technologies and AI across all 10 campuses, serving as the hub for strategy, implementation and oversight in teaching, learning and operations.

Housed within the Office of the ����Ӱҵ President, the office will be overseen by Ina Wanca, the ����Ӱҵ Chief Academic Technology Innovation Officer. Wanca will work closely with campus leaders, ITS and the Institutional Research and Analysis Office and serve as the primary liaison between academic leadership and ITS.

OATI will support the consolidation and alignment of academic technology, advance AI adoption and transformative initiatives across the system and establish governance frameworks to ensure the responsible, ethical and equitable use of technology.

“The Office of Academic Technology and Innovation is a critical step forward in ensuring ����Ӱҵ is not just adapting to emerging technologies but leading their thoughtful and strategic integration,” said ����Ӱҵ President Wendy Hensel. “This office will help us realize the full potential of AI and academic innovation to support student success, faculty excellence, and operational efficiency.”

With AI adoption moving at different paces across ����Ӱҵ’s ten campuses, OATI will create a single framework ensuring all investments, tools, and innovations drive a common vision for teaching, learning, and research.

“This new office turns that shared vision into reality,” said Ina Wanca. “By ensuring equal access to modern tools, building AI literacy for students and faculty and linking innovation to workforce readiness, we will prepare Hawaiʻi’s learners and educators to thrive in the AI era while honoring the values that define our university system.”

OATI will also support the AI Planning Group announced June 25 in developing a university-wide AI strategy aligned with institutional goals.

“With the AI Planning Group and OATI working together, we can align priorities across all campuses and move quickly from ideas to implementation,” said Kim Siegenthaler, Senior Advisor to the President.

The office will also help lead implementation of the $7.4 million, five-year subscription to EAB Navigate360 and EAB Edify, approved by the ����Ӱҵ Board of Regents on June 16. The platforms use predictive analytics to alert faculty, advisors, and support staff at the earliest sign a student may be at risk. The systems have proven successful in closing student achievement gaps and improving retention and graduation rates.

The University of Hawaiʻi is making it easier for students to build their futures right at home, thanks to a groundbreaking new partnership with Google Public Sector.

The new Hawaiʻi Career Pathways platform under development uses Google Cloud’s cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) tools—like Vertex AI, BigQuery, and Gemini—to help students chart a path from classroom to career. By analyzing a student’s background, skills, interests and goals, the platform creates a personalized profile that matches their academic journey with in-demand jobs in Hawaiʻi.

Students also get support from Gemini, Google’s advanced AI assistant, to explore options and make informed decisions. The goal? To help students stay in Hawaiʻi, land fulfilling jobs, and strengthen the local workforce.

Embracing the AI-powered future

At ����Ӱҵ, preparing students for today’s rapidly changing world includes giving them hands-on experience with emerging technologies. That’s why ����Ӱҵ is expanding the use of AI tools in classrooms and campus operations.

“Our partnership with Google Public Sector is a game-changer for ����Ӱҵ students,” said ����Ӱҵ Chief Information Officer Garret Yoshimi. “By leveraging cutting-edge AI tools like Gemini, we’re not only preparing them for the jobs of tomorrow but also strengthening our local workforce and ensuring that our graduates can thrive here in the islands.”

Students and staff already have access to Google AI Essentials, a free online course that teaches the basics of AI, how to use AI tools responsibly, and how to get the most out of them in everyday work and study. Plus, the Vertex AI Model Garden, with over 200 AI models including Google’s Gemini, is opening new doors for innovation and creativity.

����Ӱҵ and Google have a long history of working together. ����Ӱҵ was one of the first universities in the country to adopt Google Workspace for Education, which continues to support teaching, learning, and collaboration across all 10 ����Ӱҵ campuses.

The University of Hawaiʻi is playing a key role in preparing local students for careers in Hawaiʻi’s growing technology sector. Through Good Jobs Hawaiʻi, a statewide workforce development initiative supported by ����Ӱҵ, students gained hands-on experience in user interface (UI), user experience (UX) and graphic design, thanks to a partnership with local creative agency Co. and Zippy’s.

With few tech firms based in the islands, many aspiring designers are forced to move to the continental U.S. to gain entry-level experience. Piʻikū Co. aims to reverse this trend by equipping kamaʻāina with practical skills tailored to the needs of local companies. Rather than outsourcing its design work, Zippy’s partnered with Piʻikū Co. to bring Hawaiʻi students in-house to support its digital and signage projects, giving students real-world exposure while strengthening �Ჹ�ɲ���ʻ��’s tech pipeline.

Michelle Tran, a local graduate of Kailua High School, struggled to find tech work after returning to Oʻahu from Claremont, California. That changed when she completed an eight-week internship through Piʻikū Co. She now works as a full-time UI/UX designer on Oʻahu.

“The Piʻikū internship played a very important role in my UX journey,” said Tran. “It was my first time working directly with a client, and I learned so much about client management.”

Programs like these directly support the ����Ӱҵ System Strategic Plan, which prioritizes workforce development and aims to reduce brain drain by keeping talent in the islands.

The Regents’ Medal for Excellence in Research is awarded by the University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents in recognition of scholarly contributions that expand the boundaries of knowledge and enrich the lives of students and the community.

Sloan Coats

Sloan Coats is an assistant professor in the Department of Earth Sciences and an affiliate of the International Pacific Research Center at the ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz� School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology. Coats joined ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz� in November 2019, after holding postdoctoral and positions at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and the National Center for Atmospheric Research, as well as faculty roles at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.

His research combines advanced statistical techniques, climate models and both observed and paleoclimatic data to investigate climate variability and change across timescales. A key aspect of Coats’s work is its interdisciplinary nature, reflected in his contributions to diverse fields such as glaciology and seismology.

In addition to his research, Coats is a passionate advocate for the broader research community at ����Ӱҵ. He co-directs the NSF-funded Earth Sciences on Volcanic Islands Research Experiences for Undergraduates program, which provides undergraduate students with hands-on research experience in Earth sciences.

Matthieu Dubarry

Matthieu Dubarry is an associate researcher at the Hawaiʻi Natural Energy Institute (HNEI) in the ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz� School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology. With more than 20 years of experience in renewable energy, he specializes in lithium-ion battery research.

He joined HNEI in 2005 as a postdoctoral fellow, analyzing the usage data from a fleet of electric vehicles. He was appointed to the faculty in 2010, where he has focused on battery testing, modeling and simulation.

Since 2014, Dubarry has led his own research group, supported by funding from federal agencies and industry partners. He is recognized for pioneering data-driven techniques to non-destructively assess lithium-ion battery degradation.

His work has produced a suite of software tools for predicting battery lifespan at both the cell and pack levels. His diagnostic model, ʻalawa—named for the Hawaiian word meaning “to diagnose with insight”—has earned global recognition and is used by universities and companies around the world.

Rick Kazman

Rick Kazman is the Danny and Elsa Lui Distinguished Professor of Information Technology Management at the ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz� Shidler College of Business. His research focuses on software architecture, analysis tools and technical debt. He helped develop several influential methods and tools, including the Architecture Tradeoff Analysis Method, Titan and DV8, which are widely used to evaluate and improve the structure and maintainability of software systems.

Kazman has authored more than 250 publications, holds three patents and has written nine books, including Software Architecture in Practice, Technical Debt: How to Find It and Fix It and Designing Software Architectures: A Practical Approach. His work has been widely adopted by Fortune 1000 companies and cited more than 30,000 times, according to Google Scholar.

A leading figure in his field, Kazman currently serves on the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Computer Society’s Board of Governors. His contributions continue to shape industry best practices and advance the discipline of software engineering.

A University of Hawaiʻi at ����ԴDz� law student is gaining national recognition for using technology to expand access to justice. Benjamin Leider, a third-year student at the at the University of Hawaiʻi at ����ԴDz�, has been named one of . The honor celebrates future legal leaders making a difference in their communities.

His standout achievement: developing a Chrome extension that helps people clear their criminal records. The tool automatically determines eligibility for expungement and fills out the required forms, saving time, cutting through red tape and offering hope to those who can’t afford legal help.

“Ben perfectly combined the technology and legal requirements to make the app work,” wrote The National Jurist in its April issue.

From coding class to courtroom impact

Leider began building the application after enrolling in Richardson’s “Coding for Lawyers” course. He later joined Innovator-in-Residence Matthew Stubenberg on a legal tech project aimed at improving the expungement process in Hawaiʻi. From designing legal logic trees to coding and testing the software,

Leider played a lead role in bringing the tool to life. The application had its soft launch at a free legal clinic in September 2024, helping 72 people start the expungement process on the spot. Its success caught the attention of the Hawaiʻi Office of the Public Defender, which asked for an added feature to assist with bench warrant recalls, a request Leider implemented earlier this year.

In the profile, Leider encouraged future lawyers to pursue purpose-driven careers. “Look at the job market and your skills; choose your path accordingly. If you want to make a difference in the world or in society, go with what moves you, and be determined,” he stated.

Leider is currently developing an AI-powered mock trial simulator that lets users upload case materials and participate in interactive trials—blending technology and experiential learning in a way that could transform legal education.

“We could not be happier for Ben,” said Law School Dean Camille Nelson. “His engagement has been as innovative as it has been transformative. He is an exemplary recipient of this national recognition.”

The University of Hawaiʻi is offering free access to online AI and career skills training for students, faculty and staff across all 10 campuses through December 2027, thanks to its participation in the National Association of System Heads (NASH)-Google Community of Practice. The initiative is part of a growing movement to expand AI literacy and workforce readiness in higher education.

����Ӱҵ joins 75 campuses nationwide in offering self-paced, online learning through Coursera, featuring two and nine in areas such as data analytics, IT support, cybersecurity and project management.

These micro-credentials, developed with input from employers and faculty nationwide, are backed by the American Council on Education. Upon completion, participants earn digital badges that can be added to résumés and professional profiles—badges that are recognized by more than 1,500 employers seeking candidates with these specific, in-demand skills.

Interested ����Ӱҵ community members can explore the offerings and sign up at hawaii.edu/its/coursera.

����Ӱҵ has secured 3,500 renewable course licenses, meaning 3,500 members can be enrolled in a course at any given time through 2027. As each participant completes a course, the license becomes available for someone else in the ����Ӱҵ community.

“Our participation in this initiative reflects the university’s commitment to equip students for the jobs of today and tomorrow. ����Ӱҵ graduates with demonstrated skills such as data analytics, regardless of their degree, are more competitive in the job market today. We hope our community takes full advantage of this opportunity,” said Christine Beaule, ����Ӱҵ System director of workforce development.

Plans are to develop a faculty learning community by fall 2025 to encourage interested faculty members across the ����Ӱҵ System to integrate career certificate programs into existing courses. Workforce development is one of the four imperatives of the ����Ӱҵ System’s Strategic Plan for 2023–2029.

College students and recent graduates interested in launching or advancing careers in information technology are invited to a special Employer Meet and Greet hosted by . The event will be held on April 24, 4—6 p.m. in the ��ā‘ʻ�Բ� Building on campus.

In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce Hawaiʻi and the Pacific Center for Advanced Technology Training (PCATT), this event goes beyond a typical career fair.

“This is not a typical ‘career fair’,” said Debasis Bhattacharya, ����Ӱҵ Maui College professor of IT and program director of applied business and information technology. “This will be an active session where local students and recent graduates interested in the IT field will meet and speak directly with employers actively seeking to fill IT positions at their companies, all in a casual and friendly environment.”

Confirmed employers include:

• Amentum
• Network 2000
• Ohana Pacific Health
• Hawaiʻi Off Grid (Architecture & Engineering)
• Pacific Millworks
• Hawaiian Electric

����Ӱҵees are encouraged to bring several copies of their resumes and come with questions about career opportunities, certifications and educational pathways in the IT field. Free parking is available at ����Ӱҵ Maui College’s main lot off Wahinepio Avenue.

The event also features career support from HR professionals with SHRM Hawaiʻi–Maui Educational Foundation, who will offer resume assistance and mock interview practice on-site.

“This is an excellent opportunity to connect with both local and national IT employers, expand your professional network, have your resume reviewed, get career advice, and learn about pathways into IT careers through certifications and degrees,” said Bhattacharya.

. For more information, contact Vanessa Rogers at vrogers@cochawaii.org or Juli Patao at jpatao@hawaii.edu.

More than 35 University of Hawaiʻi students from three campuses (����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz�, ����Ӱҵ Hilo and ����Ӱҵ Maui College) gained hands-on experience tackling real-world challenges at the , held April 4–6, at ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz�.

Participants formed interdisciplinary teams to build data-driven solutions using Google Cloud AI tools, including Vertex AI. Five challenge topics pushed students to apply diverse skills toward local and statewide resilience efforts, such as climate data visualization, educational content generation, conversational AI and immersive technology for science communication.

The first-place team, Untrained Parameters, created the Hawaiʻi Climate Explorer—an interactive web app that visualizes temperature and rainfall data from the Hawaiʻi Climate Data Portal, a project led by ����Ӱҵ experts. The team included PhD students Federica Chiti and Dhvanil Desai (), Fahim Yasir (), Gerardo Rivera Tello (), and master’s student Yada Ponpittayalert ().

“This was an incredible experience, highlighting the potential of large language models (a type of AI-trained model) for multimodal applications, even within a limited prototype developed in just three days,” said Rivera Tello.

BruhMode earned second place with GenEDU, an AI-powered educational content generator. Third place was awarded to Kani, developers of a climate-focused chatbot. TurtleyAwesome, won the Visualization Challenge with Sheldon the Turtle, a 3D AI-powered museum-style guide for climate data.

Prizes ranged from MacBook laptops and iPads to AR glasses and Google Cloud Platform credits.

Hosted by ����Ӱҵ System Information Technology Services (ITS), and , the three-day event was led by the ITS Research Cyberinfrastructure team and supported by the National Science Foundation-sponsored , , Google Cloud and the Burwood Group, Inc.

Mentors from ITS, the Burwood Group, and Hawaiʻi Mesonet and Change Hawaiʻi supported students throughout the hackathon, offering technical guidance and real-world insights.

“This hackathon gave students an incredible opportunity to apply cutting-edge AI tools to real-world challenges that directly impact Hawaiʻi,” said ����Ӱҵ ITS Director of Research Cyberinfrastructure Sean Cleveland, who led the event and also served as a program mentor. “Their creativity, teamwork and passion for innovation were truly inspiring to witness.”

The University of Hawaiʻi Maui College invites prospective students nationwide to register for the cutting-edge cybersecurity workforce development program Hawaiʻi Immersive Workforce, funded by a $500,000 U.S. National Security Agency grant.

����Ӱҵ Maui College, in partnership with the University of New Haven, is offering a free, fully online, skills-based training program designed to prepare participants for careers in four critical infrastructure sectors: energy, government facilities, finance and telecommunications. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

The training consists of live weekly Zoom lectures at 4:30 p.m. HST (attendance is required). Scholarships cover tuition, course materials, and certification exam vouchers. Participants may earn certificates, badges, credits toward a certificate of competence and prepare for industry-recognized certifications (CompTIA Network+ and Security+). They will also connect with faculty and industry experts in AI and cybersecurity. The cohort has a maximum of 30 students.

“This is an important upskilling opportunity for in-demand cybersecurity jobs,” said Principal Investigator Debasis Bhattacharya. “Veterans, transitioning military, military spouses and first responders are strongly encouraged to apply.”

Program Details

Participants who complete the program will earn a certificate of competence from ����Ӱҵ Maui College after taking the following courses:

• Summer Session II (July–August 2025): ICS 101—Digital Tools for the Information World (3 credits)
• Fall Semester 2025: ICS 169—Introduction to Information Security (3 credits), mapped to Google Cybersecurity Certification
• Spring Semester 2026: ICS 184—Introduction to Networking (3 credits), mapped to CompTIA Network+ Certification
• Fall Semester 2026: ICS 171—Introduction to Computer Security (3 credits), mapped to CompTIA Security+ Certification

This initiative complements the ����Ӱҵ Community Colleges program by offering introductory and immersive cybersecurity certificates tailored for state and local employees, small businesses and nonprofits.

The University of Hawaiʻi at ����ԴDz� hosted an international cybersecurity symposium, providing students with hands-on exposure to the latest advancements in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI). The two-day event in February, held at Campus Center, featured leading experts, industry professionals and researchers discussing the evolving landscape of cyber threats and defense strategies.

“Cybersecurity is key for Hawaiʻi as we work to diversify our economy through research, innovation and technology. This symposium brought together thought leaders from academia, government and industry to tackle emerging cybersecurity challenges while also building global collaborations that strengthen our research capabilities,” said symposium organizer and ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz� (ICS) Associate Professor Mehdi Tarrit Mirakorli, who also gave a presentation on Volt Typhoon, a hacking group that has infiltrated critical U.S. infrastructure networks. “By fostering these partnerships, we are positioning Hawaiʻi as a hub for cybersecurity excellence and resilience in the Indo-Pacific region, attracting investment, and creating high-skilled job opportunities.”

����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz� students had the opportunity to engage with leading-edge research and participate in discussions on cybersecurity policy. Presentations from experts highlighted emerging threats and best practices, with an emphasis on securing critical infrastructure, identity access management and the role of AI in cybersecurity innovation.

Derek Garcia, a ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz� ICS PhD student said, “It was a great opportunity to learn about cutting-edge research in the cybersecurity field and help expose graduate and undergraduate students to pursuing research as a career path. The plethora of research presented by ����Ӱҵ faculty shows that the demand for cyber research is there, and conferences like this are a great place not only for students to get inspired about potential research projects but also to connect and collaborate with professors to make it happen.”

Interconnected disciplines

����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz� faculty members across a variety of disciplines showcased their contributions to research and industry collaboration. Assistant Professor Emile Loza de Siles explored the legal implications of AI and cybersecurity strategies, Curt Dodds from the detailed efforts to secure critical astronomy research cyberinfrastructure, Sean Cleveland from Information Technology Services provided an overview of ����Ӱҵ’s research cyberinfrastructure resources, Associate Professor Roger Chen discussed transportation security, Associate Professor Christina Karamperidou presented on climate-resilient and cyber-secure data centers, and ICS Assistant Professor Anthony Peruma discussed challenges of securing mobile applications.

“Bringing together a multidisciplinary group of ����Ӱҵ experts highlights the complex and interconnected nature of cybersecurity, ensuring that solutions address not just technical challenges, but also legal, policy and industry-specific concerns,” Mirakorli said.

The Chief Information Security Officer panel, moderated by Westly Group, a venture capital in California, brought together top security executives from Hawaiʻi to discuss the real-world challenges of cybersecurity leadership, risk management and AI-driven security solutions. In addition, industry leaders from companies such as Palo Alto Networks, IBM, Flashpoint and Kry10 participated in expert panels and discussions on emerging cyber threats.

The Hawaiʻi Tech Days of Spring 2025, designed to enhance student learning and foster job growth in the tech and cyber sectors, kicks off on February 12. In 2024, more than 400 students participated in the Tech Days of Spring, and about 600 students participated in the Tech Days of Fall.

Co-sponsored by the University of Hawaiʻi and the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, in partnership with 15 local organizations, this biannual series aims to address the growing demand for skilled tech professionals in Hawaiʻi.

“����Ӱҵ has long supported initiatives connecting our youth with exciting tech careers,” said Garret Yoshimi, ����Ӱҵ vice president for information technology and chief information officer. “Through Hawaiʻi Tech Day events, we foster industry-academia partnerships, equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in Hawaiʻi’s thriving tech sector.”

“We are thrilled to collaborate with ����Ӱҵ and our partners to equip the next generation with essential tech and cybersecurity skills,” said Sherry Menor-McNamara, president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii. “This collective effort is vital for our state’s economic prosperity and innovation.”

Highlights for Tech Days of Spring 2025:

• IT Community Advisory Board Launch (March 12 @ Japanese Cultural Center):
  The , representing IT leaders statewide, will advise post-secondary educators on IT curriculum, ensuring ����Ӱҵ graduates meet the evolving needs of Hawaiʻi’s tech industry.
• Resume Review Day (March 27 @ ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz�):
  Students can receive expert resume guidance from industry professionals, learning how to tailor their resumes for tech job applications.

Tech Days of Spring 2025 runs through April 8.

Hawaiʻi Tech Days of Spring 2025 schedule

• Tech Minds Meetup
  Wednesday, February 12, 4–6:30 p.m.
  Location: Walter Dods Jr. RISE Center (1810 University Avenue)
  Sponsored by ����Ӱҵ System, Builders VC, CIO Council of Hawaii, Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (PACE), ThriveHI
• Careers in IT and Cyber Fair
  Thursday, February 13, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
  Location: ����Ӱҵ West Oʻahu Campus Center Multipurpose Room
  Sponsored by ����Ӱҵ System, ����Ӱҵ West Oʻahu, ����Ӱҵ Community Colleges, Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii
• Technology and Innovation Day
  Thursday, February 20, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
  Kapiʻolani Community College
  Sponsored by: ����Ӱҵ System, Kapiʻolani CC
• Careers in Tech and Intelligence Fair
  Friday, February 21, 1–4 p.m.
  Location: ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz� Campus Center Ballroom
  Sponsored by ����Ӱҵ System, The Association for Computing Machinery at ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz�, Pacific Intelligence and Innovation Initiative, Chamber of Commerce Hawaii
• IT Pathways Summit
  Wednesday, March 12, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
  Location: Japanese Cultural Center
  Sponsored by ����Ӱҵ System, CIO Council of Hawaii, Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii, Hawaiʻi Department of Education, Hawaiʻi P–20, Pacific Center for Advanced Technology Training
• Resume Review Day
  Thursday, March 27, 2–5 p.m.
  Location: ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz� Campus Center Rooms 307-309
  Sponsored by ����Ӱҵ System, The Association for Computing Machinery at ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz�
• Leeward Community College Internship and Job Fair
  Tuesday, April 8, 12–2 p.m.
  Location: Leeward CC, Education Building Room 201
  Sponsored by ����Ӱҵ System, Leeward CC
• DoD Meet and Greet on Maui
  Time tbd
  More information coming soon!
  Sponsored by ����Ӱҵ and Chamber of Commerce Hawaii

The state of Hawaiʻi and the University of Hawaiʻi at ����ԴDz� became the epicenter of global innovation, hosting two high-profile conferences that drew over 1,500 researchers from around the world.

The 8th (HARC) and the 58th (HICSS) brought together some of the brightest minds in accounting and digital technology to exchange ideas, tackle challenges, and push the boundaries of their respective fields.

HARC 2025

From January 3–5, more than 335 participants gathered at ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz� for HARC. Hosted by the at the , the conference featured 11 sessions over three days. A total of 411 papers were submitted for consideration, with 245 papers accepted and registered for presentation. Additionally, 175 global and national universities were represented among 17 countries.

“In just eight years, HARC has firmly established itself as one of the top three most impactful accounting research conferences globally,” said Hamid Pourjalali, conference chair, A. Don Corbin Distinguished Professor of Accounting and director of the ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz� School of Accountancy. “The conference provides a unique platform for scholars worldwide to exchange ideas, build collaborations and contribute to advancing accounting research. With intellectually rigorous presentations and vibrant discussions, HARC fosters a stimulating environment where participants can share insights, receive constructive feedback and further refine their work.”

From its inaugural conference with 168 attendees and 89 accepted papers, the event has more than doubled in size, demonstrating its growing influence and appeal within the academic community. HARC 2026 is scheduled for January 3 to 6 at ����Ӱҵ ����ԴDz�.

HICSS 2025

HICSS, held January 7–10, welcomed over 1,200 researchers, scientists and academics to the Hilton Waikoloa Village. There were 1,516 research papers submitted, and 736 were selected for presentations.

����Ӱҵees participated in symposia, workshops and tutorials on topics such as responsible AI, quantum computing, data analytics and governance, information security, and ICT integration in healthcare. These sessions complemented the expansive research papers, which span over 7,500 pages and delve into theoretical, conceptual, and practical dimensions of digital transformation.

“As a leading international forum, HICSS brings together a multidisciplinary community of scientists dedicated to advancing system sciences and their impact on business, government and society,” said Tung Bui, conference chair and Matson Navigation Company Distinguished Professor of Global Business. “From exploring responsible AI to fostering equitable technological solutions, the research and dialogue at this year’s conference reflect the innovation and rigor that define HICSS as a premier platform for advancing system sciences worldwide.”

A highlight of HICSS 2025 was the exploration of the “intelligence horizon” in keynotes by thought leaders from OpenAI and Meta. Discussions centered on advancements in AI and the progression toward artificial general intelligence (AGI), which promise to reshape the global hardware industrial base into collaborative innovation ecosystems, paving the way for the next decade of digital transformation.

HICSS sponsors include the Shidler College of Business, National Security Agency, Association for Information Systems and MyEducator. HICSS 2026 is slated for January 6 to 9 at the Hyatt Regency Maui.

More than 800 students, educators and professionals participated in the —a series of free events in September and October aimed at helping students and jobseekers connect with local tech companies and grow the industry. The University of Hawaiʻi and the Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii have sponsored the event since 2023, offering networking and career exploration opportunities in the tech and cyber sectors.

Kyla Lee serves as the president of the Association for Computing Machinery at ����Ӱҵ and was the chairperson for the Tech Days Student Advisory Committee. The senior, who is majoring in computer science, said Tech Days were invaluable for connecting students with real-world opportunities and innovative Hawaiʻi tech companies.

“Being part of events like Tech Days has opened my eyes to the incredible range of paths available and has helped me connect with professionals who are eager to support students,” Lee said. “These experiences allow us to gain hands-on insights and create networks that are crucial for launching successful careers in the tech industry.”

• Related ����Ӱҵ News story: IT, cybersecurity opportunities through Tech Days of Fall, September 3, 2024

This fall, Tech Days also worked with the founder and organizers of Honolulu Tech Week, to put even more focus on tech opportunities for the next generation. The kick-off event for Tech Days was aligned with the grand opening of the ����Ӱҵ Cybersecurity Clinic, and the launch of a new product by a local tech start-up with ����Ӱҵ roots.

“����Ӱҵ is committed to preparing our students and connecting them with the good paying jobs in the IT/Cybersecurity sector,” said ����Ӱҵ President David Lassner. “We are grateful to our industry partners for their collaboration and support, which helps many students with practical experiences, internships and employment.”

Other Tech Days co-sponsors included the CIO Council of Hawaii, CyberHawaii, the Hawaii Defense Alliance, the Pacific Intelligence Innovation Initiative, Honolulu Tech Week, Association of Computing Machinery, Information Technology Management Association, the Pacific Center for Advanced Technology Training, ThriveHI, the Hawaii Annual Code Challenge , the Hawaiʻi Department of Education and the Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship.

The collaboration between educators and industry supports workforce development, one of the ����Ӱҵ System Strategic Plan’s four imperatives.

A University of Hawaiʻi project to enhance cyberinfrastructure adoption, capacity and training in the Pacific region earned a .

Cyberinfrastructure refers to the integrated computing systems, data storage and management facilities, advanced instruments, visualization environments and the people who operate and manage them. They are all linked together by software and high-performance networks to improve research productivity and enable breakthroughs not otherwise possible.

Led by the ����Ӱҵ System, the project will offer services, education and research programs to engage faculty, researchers and students in advanced cyberinfrastructure.

“This cyberinfrastructure initiative is crucial for advancing our region’s technological capabilities and ensuring we remain competitive in the global digital landscape,” said Sean Cleveland, ����Ӱҵ System interim director of cyberinfrastructure and project principal investigator. “By investing in local talent and encouraging collaboration among institutions, we are not only advancing scientific research and education but also creating a foundation for innovations that will benefit our workforce and communities.”

The project will support collaborative research across disciplines by providing access to computational resources, data repositories and communication networks that will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of scientific and engineering research, scholarship and education. Cyberinfrastructure is the backbone of modern research and innovation, enabling large-scale data analysis, simulations, and collaborative work in various fields, which could potentially lead to the development of better weather predictions, innovative tech jobs and improved healthcare.

This effort is expected to create pathways for increased adoption and capacity of cyberinfrastructure, supporting long-term regional research growth.

“Building human capacity to support advanced cyberinfrastructure is the critical catalyst to sustaining long-term growth in leading edge computational and data centered research throughout the Pacific region,” said ����Ӱҵ Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer Garret Yoshimi. “Collaboration among our partners will effectively extend the beneficial impacts throughout our research communities.”

The project will strengthen regional research capabilities by hiring cyberinfrastructure professionals at partner institutions that will work collaboratively to support cyberinfrastructure needs in the region. The project aims to train and embed more than 200 undergraduates and 15 graduate students that will apply advanced cyberinfrastructure technologies and methods to cutting edge research projects.

The initiative will also introduce more than 100 workshops along with new curriculum modules to increase cyberinfrastructure awareness and skills across numerous research domains. This comprehensive approach aims to cultivate a skilled workforce addressing Pacific regional needs and driving innovation in fields such as life sciences, data science, environmental science and engineering.

Project leaders anticipate that the model of shared cyberinfrastructure expertise, leading practices and strategies developed will be shared with other communities and institutions nationwide, extending the impact beyond the Pacific region.

Also involved in the project are experts and co-principal investigators Helen Turner from Chaminade University of Honolulu, Vincent Dela Cruz from University of Guam and Maytal Dahan and Joe Stubbs from the Texas Advanced Computing Center.

The State of Hawaiʻi was allocated more than $149 million to deploy or upgrade high-speed internet networks to ensure that everyone has access to reliable, affordable, high-speed Internet service.

The University of Hawaiʻi was tapped to lead parts of the Connect Kākou effort in the state that will leverage more than $400 million in federal grants and matching funds to ensure the state’s long-term connectivity. The recent allocation is part of the overall efforts.

Hawaiʻi’s Initial Proposal for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program—a cornerstone of the —was approved by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) in July.

“Strengthening and upgrading our broadband pipelines is crucial to keep us connected to each other and the rest of the world,” said ����Ӱҵ Vice President of Information Technology and Chief Information Officer Garret Yoshimi said. “Hawaiʻi’s location in the Pacific means we depend heavily on internet access, which will be integral to all our future endeavors.”

Once deployment goals are met, any remaining funding can be used on high-speed Internet adoption, training, and workforce development efforts, among other eligible uses.

This approval enables Hawaiʻi to request access to funding and begin implementation of the BEAD program—a major step toward closing the digital divide and meeting Biden’s goal of connecting everyone in the U.S. with affordable, reliable, high-speed Internet service.

“Ensuring that every person in Hawaiʻi has dependable access to affordable high-speed internet service is crucial to our state’s economic, educational and social progress,” said Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke. “The Biden-Harris Administration and the NTIA have been exceptional partners in our efforts to develop and build the necessary infrastructure to bridge the digital divide across the islands—from Hanalei to Hilo, mauka to makai, and everywhere in between. Today’s announcement marks a monumental milestone for our Connect Kākou initiative. With this unprecedented federal funding, we are making a significant leap towards eliminating barriers and tackling inequities within our communities.”

The BEAD program is a $42.45 billion state grant program authorized by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

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Free summer training classes are now available for sign up through University of Hawaiʻi Community Colleges’ Good Jobs Hawaiʻi initiative. These training programs offer individuals the chance to upskill and attain industry certifications, opening doors to employment opportunities, paid internships, and apprenticeship pathways. Registration is now open for a variety of online and in-person classes with varying durations though goodjobshawaii.org.

Trainings that will be offered starting in May 2024 include:

• Creative Industry jobs: Intro to esports careers and digital art fundamentals
• Technology jobs: Help desk technician prep, CompTIA A+, AI in the workplace and AWS cloud certifications
• Clean Energy and Skilled Trade jobs: Carpenter pre-apprenticeship, renewable energy and commercial driver’s license
• Healthcare jobs: Certified personal trainer, certified nurse aide and medical assisting
• City & County of Honolulu jobs: Police Academy prep, certification in court interpreter training,
• Microsoft Office and plant propagation for nursery workers

Since the launch of Good Jobs Hawaiʻi in 2023, more than 4,000 residents throughout the state have enrolled in free training offered through the program.

“The Good Jobs Hawaiʻi initiative is focused on ensuring our state’s economic future has a skilled and local workforce ready to meet the demands of our high-growth industries,” said Erika Lacro, vice president for ����Ӱҵ Community Colleges. “These free training classes being offered to Hawaiʻi residents provide an invaluable opportunity to upskill, paving the way for a successful future filled with promising career prospects.”

Free for most participants

More than $3 million in funding is available from various funding sources for tuition. Eligible applicants receive tuition assistance for courses and other training costs such as industry certification exam fees. The Good Jobs Hawaiʻi program is free for most eligible participants, since many of the trainings provide a 100% tuition subsidy to cover all costs.

In addition to the free tuition, each participant is also supported by a Good Jobs Hawaiʻi navigator, who provides one-on-one support to ensure a student’s success. Their services include offering college and career advising, referring to community partners for support services, facilitating connections to employers, and providing various forms of financial assistance.

To apply online for current training or to learn more visit Good Jobs Hawaiʻi.

Esports, digital creative industries

In the creative industries sector, an exciting esports experiential learning pathway is set to start in fall of 2024 for students from all ����Ӱҵ campuses.

“We encourage interested applicants to apply now as seats are limited. The training will provide an unprecedented experience of academic instruction, industry mentorship, and esports internships in Hawaiʻi. The ����Ӱҵ Esports program is a three-time nominated collegiate program of the year and winner of the 2022 national award,” said Nyle Sky Kauweloa, director of ����Ӱҵ Esports.

The new online digital art fundamentals course prepares students for jobs in the rapidly evolving creative industries sector.

“This course offers a blend of introductory theory and practical skills essential for a digital media landscape that affects everything from education to digital marketing, telehealth to e-commerce, social media to esports,” said Associate Professor Adam Moura, coordinator for the New Media Arts Program at Kapiʻolani Community College.

Healthcare sector training

In the healthcare sector, a new personal trainer program hosted online for statewide participants by University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo in collaboration with ����Ӱҵ Maui College offers the opportunity to attain the industry recognized ACE (American Council of Exercise) Industry Certification.

“The training provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills required to pursue an actual personal trainer certification from an accredited organization. It equips them with the educational groundwork needed to design safe and effective exercise programs, increasing their credibility and marketability in Hawaiʻi‘s vibrant fitness industry,” said Ozan Atalağ, department chair in kinesiology and exercise sciences at University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo.

Technology fields

In the technology sector, a new help desk technician prep course leading to an internship with local managed service providers (MSPs) for Oʻahu residents will begin in May.

“The value of this training isn’t just about fixing computers, it’s about building the confidence to tackle any problem that may come your way,” said Branden Baker of InTech, one of the MSPs offering paid internships.

Financial support provided by the U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Economic Development Administration, and City and County of Honolulu. Grants from the Ascendium Education Group, Hawaiʻi Community Foundation and the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation support the ����Ӱҵ Community Colleges’ coordination with industry partners in targeted sectors identified as recession-resilient in , issued by the Hawaiʻi Executive Collaborative.