ClimbHI Connects Students With Hawaii Hospitality Careers
A workforce nonprofit's leadership program drew nearly 150 high school students and teachers to a Kohala Coast resort this week.
Updated on Nov. 1, 2026 in Job Fairs
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ClimbHI co-hosted the 14th annual Leadership, Exploration, Inspiration program at the Waikōloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa on Thursday. Nearly 150 high school students and teachers attended, taking part in an Exposure Fair held in a speed-dating format.
Why it matters
The program introduces students to local employers and hospitality careers across the state. Organizers expect wider participation this fall as the initiative expands beyond the Kohala Coast.
Organizers report nearly 150 attendees at Thursday's event and project about 1,000 young people and 100 businesses participating statewide this fall. The source does not provide prior-year attendance to compare against, and final fall turnout remains unknown.
The players
ClimbHI
ClimbHI is a workforce development nonprofit that runs career-exposure programs for students across Hawaii.
Hawaii Tourism Authority
The Hawaii Tourism Authority is the state agency that promotes and manages tourism in Hawaii, and it co-sponsored this event.
The details
Students engaged with industry leaders and visited Kohala Coast businesses to learn about hospitality opportunities. The Hawaii Tourism Authority co-sponsored the event, and a second Leadership, Exploration, Inspiration program is scheduled for November 13 at Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel in Hilo.
Timeline
Thursday, week of October 31, 2026: Program held at Waikōloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa.
November 13, 2026: Leadership, Exploration, Inspiration program held at Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel in Hilo.
Job Fairs
The program extends the Hawaii Tourism Authority's co-sponsored tourism workforce efforts into high schools, directing students toward hospitality careers. It follows the statewide model of the Leadership, Exploration, Inspiration program now running for the 14th year.
Students in the program gain direct exposure to local hospitality employers and open roles in their own communities. Families and schools across Hawaii may find upcoming fall events a practical way to explore job options before graduation.
The takeaway
Early exposure to local employers can help high school students see hospitality careers as realistic options at home. Students and teachers interested in future events can watch for the November program in Hilo.
What happens next
A Leadership, Exploration, Inspiration program is scheduled for November 13, 2026, at Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel in Hilo.
Further reading
Explore more Hawaii Job Fairs coverage for context on local hiring events.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Big Island Now | Big Island News and Information.
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