Training Highlights

'Pipeline to the Plumbers Union' Program expands to Maui Island

Recent high school graduates from schools across Maui were selected based on their outstanding performance in the Building Trades Program at their schools to participate in the Maui Pipeline Program. (l-r) Jackson Hussey, Angelice Medeiros, Pono Lee, Jayson Pascua, Axel Diaz, Isaac Madarraga, Akira Amby, Josiah Nakihei.

The 'Pipeline to the Plumbers Union' program was held for the first time on Maui from June 2nd through June 6th for eight high school seniors. The inaugural 'Maui Pipeline' provided students on Maui with the opportunity to participate in the hands-on training initiative and potentially serve as a stepping stone into the Union. The students were selected from four different high schools across the island by their high school teachers based on their performance and their interest in the building trades.

"Each of the eight students came from one of Maui's four district high schools, marking our presence and outreach on the island,"" said Westin Alcover, Assistant Training Coordinator. The eight students represented Baldwin High School (Wailuku), Maui High School (Kahului), Lahainaluna High School (Lahaina), and King Kekaulike High School (Kula).

During the week-long program, students explored each trade through hands-on training in Plumbing, A/C and Refrigeration, Fire Sprinkler Systems, and Welding, while also earning CPR and First Aid certifications. Business Manager Val Ceria and Business Agents Matt Brady, Sam Barrett Jr., Benji Panis, and Sheung Man Wong volunteered their time to share their experiences and mentor students throughout the program.

A graduation ceremony capped off the program, where families celebrated the students' hard work. "This was a great first run," said Business Agent Benji Panis. "It gave Maui students real exposure to Union opportunities—and to our contractors."

The Pipeline to the Plumbers Union program is a relatively new initiative. It was held for the second time on Oahu in March. Although it is a new program, its impact on these students, our community, and the opportunity it offers as a pathway into our Union is invaluable.

"Positive responses from teachers, parents, and the students themselves give us confidence that the word will spread, and this will increase awareness of the opportunities that our Union provides," said Westin Alcover.

The Maui Pipeline was made possible through a grant from Maui College, and the support of many generous sponsors and volunteers.

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The Training staff with the eight students after receiving their diplomas in a graduation ceremony, honoring completion of the program. (First Row Kneeling l-r): Dean Kobashigawa – Head Training Coordinator, Isaac Madarraga, Josiah Nakihei, Akira Amby, Westin Alcover – Asst. Training Coordinator, Troy Taniguchi – Asst. Training Coordinator. (Second Row Standing l-r): Ronden Numasaki – Asst. Training Coordinator, Axel Diaz, Jackson Hussey, Pono Lee, Jayson Pascua, Angelice Medeiros, Suzzette Barios – Training Staff.
Published: Jul 20, 2025
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