Ha‘aheo 675

'Pipeline to the Plumbers Union'

Inspiring the Next Generation

The Pipeline to the Plumbers Union program kicked off spring break for 12 outstanding high school students on Monday, March 17, and continued throughout the week, culminating in a special graduation ceremony on Friday, March 21. These students, all currently enrolled in the Building & Construction Pathways program, were selected from Leilehua High School, Pearl City High School, Kapolei High School, Moanalua High School, and Waipahu High School.

The program serves as a "crash course" in Hawaii's piping industry, providing hands-on experience in the Union's trades classifications and one-on-one mentorship from industry experts. The entire program took place at the Training Facility in Iwilei.

"We wanted to offer a program that provides high school students with a direct career path into our trade," said Head Training Coordinator, Dean Kobashigawa. Originally implemented last year, the program has already proven to be a success, with more than half of its graduates joining the Union as apprentices.

The first day of the program focused on safety, with students earning their CPR and First Aid Certification. They then heard from Union leaders, including Business Manager Val Ceria and Business Agents Matt Brady, Benji Panis, Sam Barrett, Jr., and Sheung Man Wong, who shared personal stories about their journeys within the Union. Erinn Liu from the Trust Fund Office provided insight into the benefits available to Union members, while Gregg Serikaku, Executive Director of PAMCA, explained how contractors collaborate with the Union to ensure the best working conditions. Additionally, Jonathan Lee spoke on retirement benefits and the Retirees Club, which he leads.

Day two marked the start of hands-on training, beginning with Plumbing. Students practiced brazing and soldering copper pipes and fittings and worked with PEX and ProPress connections. They also learned how to inspect and lay out drain piping using a locator and inspection camera. The morning session was followed by guest speakers from Local 675 signatory plumbing contractors, including Commercial Plumbing, Furuta Plumbing, and Hi-Tech Plumbing, who shared insights into their careers and achievements.

On day three, students focused on Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, completing an AC split unit installation.

Day four introduced them to Fire Sprinkler Systems, and on the final day, Business Manager Val Ceria led a Welding demonstration. Students learned to cut steel on a flat bar using a torch and practiced stick welding. This hands-on experience was a highlight of the program, leading up to the special graduation ceremony attended by parents, teachers, and even the Vice Principal of Leilehua High School. Each student received a certificate of completion and their CPR/First Aid Certification Card. Business Manager Val Ceria also delivered closing remarks to celebrate the students' achievements.

Several students shared their experiences:

Mark Yadao (Junior at Leilehua High School): "I really enjoyed working with students from other schools and realizing all of the opportunities we were given. I enjoyed AC the most because it was like a puzzle—figuring out how to connect the unit was really fun."

Ikaika Armstrong (Senior at Moanalua High School): "I liked learning about all the benefits the Union offers. It's like a full circle, and all the Union officers are very supportive. I'm just glad to be here— it's a blessing, not everyone gets this opportunity. I'm thinking about joining the Union after high school and pursuing a career in AC."

Dean Kobashigawa, Head Training Coordinator, along with Training Coordinators Ronden Numasaki, Westin Alcover, Troy Taniguchi, and staff members Suzette Barrios and Marilyn Alterado, worked tirelessly behind the scenes leading up to the event and throughout to ensure it ran seamlessly. The success of this program would not be possible without the dedication of the Training team, and volunteers who generously gave their time and resources to mentor the next generation. "The only reason we can continue to grow this program each year is because of our entire Training team. I couldn't do it without them," said Dean Kobashigawa. "We are incredibly fortunate to have volunteers and donations that make this opportunity possible for the students."

Excitingly, this year the program will be expanding to Maui, offering the Pipeline to the Plumbers Union program during the school's summer break for students on the island. This expansion will provide even more young people with the opportunity to explore a promising career in the piping industry.