Mahalo to the engineers of Hawaiian Electric
by Robert Yang | Feb. 23, 2023
I have a great deal of respect for engineers. In fact, my father, who’s 64, is a mechanical engineer. He should retire next year, but he won’t. He loves his work and finds the challenge of solving complex problems and working with his hands to be way more fun than living the retired life. Hawaiian Electric engineers have that same passion and excitement for their work when I ask them to explain what they do.
Every February, we shine a spotlight on engineers during National Engineers Week because their skills, dedication and passion help move the world forward. This year, it’s Feb. 19–25. At Hawaiian Electric, our engineers find new ways to safely generate and deliver energy to power our customers’ homes and businesses. They work to modernize our island grids so that they’re more reliable and resilient.
Because engineers are vital to providing electrical service to our customers, we actively promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education. Our engineers often play a pivotal role in mentoring the next generation of engineers. Some are coaches and mentor robotics teams. Others volunteer at engineering-related events or at community science centers like the Kenyan K. Beals Robotics Center.
Our company supports STEM initiatives through grants, sponsorships and donations. We’re a consistent supporter of VEX Robotics, FIRST Lego League Challenge, Lacy Veach Day of Discovery, Onizuka Day of Exploration, Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day and other STEM-related events. We’ve built a strong relationship with the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s College of Engineering, as engineers serve as mentors, lecturers, and also judges during build competitions. Recently, we donated $15,500 to Ke Kula O Piilani and $20,000 to Ma Ka Hana Ka Ike. They are both education programs on Maui that integrate STEM education with Hawaiian Knowledge and aina-based learning.
As the population and economy grows in Hawaii, so will the demand for more energy. Our island grids will need to support this growth and our engineers will be the ones to meet the challenge. If you’re an experienced engineer looking for a new challenge, we would love for you to join our team. We offer engineering roles on the energy delivery and power supply side of the utility. You can apply on our website. There are also summer internship positions offered on the Careers site. Students enrolled in an engineering program can apply and receive hands-on experience working on professional-level projects, while receiving mentorship from a Hawaiian Electric engineer.
Engineers build the world around us and we enjoy the benefits of their work every day. Thank you to all the engineers at Hawaiian Electric. Happy National Engineers Week!
Robert Yang is a digital communications and social media specialist at Hawaiian Electric Company.
