HI SR68

Legislature supports the Thirty Meter Telescope Observatory Corporation's development of a Workforce Pipeline Program to prepare local workers for employment at the telescope project and other high-tech industries in Hawaii.

Workforce Pipeline Program will strengthen STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) skills through scholarships, internships, and mentorships from elementary school through graduate school on Hawaii Island.

Program will involve partnerships with the Department of Education, Hawaii Community College, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Imiloa Astronomy Center, independent schools, charter schools, and community organizations.

Telescope observatory operations will require approximately 120 full-time jobs after construction, with the project committed to hiring local workers in engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative positions.

Legislature encourages the Thirty Meter Telescope Project to identify apprenticeship opportunities with relevant trades and develop preliminary curricula for students interested in STEM fields.