Companies on the Rise | Inside Hawaiʻi's Leading Employers

Hawaiʻi's workforce is changing — and the companies, people, and skills shaping what comes next are coming together. This multi-format event brings together organizations driving Hawaiʻi's innovation economy for an inside look at the industries transforming our state. Hear directly from company leaders as they share what they're building, the skills powering their growth, the talent they value, and what makes their teams unique places to grow a career. The experience is designed around three conversations: Skills Driving Hawaiʻi → What the market needs Hear from industry leaders about the skills, capabilities, and workforce trends shaping Hawaiʻi's future. Company Story Stage → Who is building it Discover the organizations behind Hawaiʻi's innovation economy — their missions, cultures, challenges, and why people choose to build their careers with them. Connect & Grow → How people can connect and act on it Join interactive conversations and networking opportunities designed to help attendees explore pathways, build relationships, and take their next step. Who should attend: Whether you're exploring your next career move, building new skills, considering a transition, or curious about where Hawaiʻi's economy is headed, this event offers a unique opportunity to learn from the organizations shaping the future of work across the islands. Tech professionals at any career stage · Active job seekers and passive explorers · New graduates and emerging talent · Career changers and workforce upskillers · HWIT members and the broader HTW community Free to attend. Donations welcome! 1:00 – 1:30 PM: Welcome & Framing Event Hosts set the stage, introduce the format, thank sponsors, and orient attendees to the experience ahead. 1:30 – 2:30 PM: Closing the Gap — Panel C-suite and kama’āina talent leaders share real intelligence on the 2026 hiring market, skills in demand, and how Hawaiʻi talent can position itself to win. 2:30 – 3:00 PM Break Light Refreshments and Networking 3:00 – 4:00 PM Company Story Stage + Community Vote Companies deliver high-energy pitches: why we exist, who thrives here, what we’re building, and why you should build it with us. Audience votes for community recognition. 4:00 – 4:30 PM Closing Remarks Day recap, group photo and transition into breakout sessions and networking. 4:30 – 5:30 PM Breakouts + Main Space Networking Four concurrent breakout sessions run alongside open networking in the main space.