By Staff Reports
(HONOLULU) – The City & County of Honolulu’s Department of Community Services, WorkHawaiʻi Division, will host a free Hiring Event on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Blaisdell Exhibition Hall.
This event is a key component of the Federal-to-Municipal Workforce Transition Initiative, launched by Mayor Rick Blangiardi last month as a strategic effort to address two critical challenges: the unexpected displacement of federal employees and the urgent need to fill vacancies across City departments. With many skilled federal workers facing job losses, the City is taking proactive steps to counter job displacement by creating employment opportunities and strengthening its workforce. The City’s Department of Human Resources will be onsite to assist job seekers in navigating career opportunities with the City & County of Honolulu, ensuring a smooth transition for those looking to apply their expertise in service to our local community.
“Our City workforce is the backbone of the services we provide to the people of O‘ahu, and we are committed to strengthening it with dedicated, talented individuals,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi.“This hiring event is an incredible opportunity for job seekers to explore rewarding careers, including with the City, where they can make a real difference in our community.”
More than 80 employers representing government agencies, businesses, and non-profits have signed up to participate. Job seekers will also have access to a Resource Center provided by WorkHawaiʻi, offering laptops and printers for resume editing, printing, and online applications. Admission is free for both job seekers and employers, with public parking available for $8 at the Blaisdell Center.
The event will also feature the Career Advancement Speaker Series, where business professionals, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders will share insights on career growth, starting a business or non-profit, and navigating professional life in Hawaiʻi.
“Our goal is to make job opportunities accessible to everyone, including those who can’t attend weekday job fairs due to work, school, or family obligations,” WorkHawaiʻi Administrator Leinaʻala Nakamura said. “Hosting our annual hiring event on a Saturday at the Neal Blaisdell Center allows us to connect with a broader pool of job seekers, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to take the next step in their careers.”
Career Advancement Speaker Series Schedule
- 10 a.m. – Cheryl Ann Vierra, Director of Owner Relations, Ala Moana Hotel
- 11 a.m – James Kiko, Founder & President, bEASTside Kitchen
- 12 p.m. – Maile Kaipo, Owner, I Mana Ka ʻŌiwi & Maile Girl Designs
- 1 p.m. – Paul Chen, Talent Acquisition Manager, First Hawaiian Bank
- 2 p.m. – Mari & José Villa, CEO & COO, Villa Business Consulting
Find more information about the Hiring Event at https://www.honolulu.gov/hiringevents
About the DCS – WorkHawaiʻi Division
The WorkHawaiʻi mission is to develop a quality workforce for Honolulu’s businesses and to empower individuals to meet the current and future needs of employers so that our local economy continues to grow. Services include: no-cost Hiring Events; GED preparation and work experience for youth and adults; short-term rental subsidies for working individuals; vocational training tuition assistance; and direct outreach to long-term unhoused and unemployed individuals. For more information on programs and other resources, call WorkHawaiʻi at (808) 768-5701 or fill out the online WorkHawaii Program Interest Form.