What's Being Discussed

University of Hawaii Presentation: UH System President Dr. Wendy Hensel will brief the Council on plans to unify the university's ten campuses into a single workforce system, expand AI skills training, offer stackable job-related credentials, and strengthen partnerships with employers.
Federal Reserve Presentation: A researcher from the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco will share findings on Hawaii's workforce, focusing on lower-income households, job trends, and how artificial intelligence may affect local workers.
Legislative Representatives for 2027: The Council will consider replacing outgoing member Tui Scanlan with member Chris Burnett as one of two designated representatives who handle legislative matters during the state legislative session.
Executive Director Performance Review Process: The Council will discuss how to set up a formal annual review of the Executive Director's performance, as required by its own bylaws starting in early 2027.
Contract Focus Shift: The Council will consider changing the focus of its contract with UH Community Colleges from agriculture to manufacturing and advanced manufacturing as a workforce priority area.

Decisions Expected

Approval of minutes from the September 10, 2026 meeting
Vote to designate Chris Burnett as a legislative representative for the 2027 session
Vote to authorize the Chair and Vice Chair to develop an Executive Director evaluation framework
Vote on shifting the UHCC contract focus to manufacturing

Who Should Pay Attention

Job seekers and workers, especially those in lower-income households or industries affected by AI
Employers looking to partner with UH or community colleges on workforce training
Students and adult learners interested in job credentials and career pathways
Manufacturing industry stakeholders in Hawaii