Maui Economic Development Board promotes STEM Works for future healthcare workforce

In a vibrant gathering at Maui County's city hall, community members came together to discuss the future of education and workforce development, particularly through the lens of the STEM Works program. The evening was marked by passionate testimonies from students and professionals alike, all emphasizing the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in shaping the future of Maui.

One standout voice was that of a sixth grader, who shared her experiences in the STEM Works program. With enthusiasm, she recounted her participation in STEM nights and health care days, where she discovered the diverse career paths available in hospitals beyond just doctors and nurses. “I learned that there are people who do accounting, marketing, and IT work too,” she said, reflecting on how these experiences opened her eyes to possibilities she had never considered before. The young student expressed a desire to follow in her older brother's footsteps, who is now an electrical engineer on Maui, and she urged the community to continue supporting STEM initiatives so that more children can explore similar opportunities.

Cameron Rogers, a local nurse and advocate for the Maui Economic Development Board, echoed these sentiments. He highlighted the pressing issues facing Maui, such as wastewater management and housing development, which require skilled professionals in STEM fields to address. Rogers noted the alarming statistics regarding the aging nursing workforce and the increasing demand for health care services, underscoring the need for programs like STEM Works to inspire the next generation of health care professionals. “Their programming works,” he stated, referencing a recent event that saw a significant increase in student interest in health care careers.

The testimonies shared during the meeting painted a hopeful picture of a community committed to nurturing young talent. As the discussions unfolded, it became clear that the future of Maui relies on fostering a skilled workforce equipped to tackle the challenges ahead. The call for continued support of STEM education resonated strongly, leaving attendees with a sense of urgency and optimism for what lies ahead.