Hawai’i Recognizes Workforce Development Heroes in 2025

Hawaii Workforce Development Hero Awards 2025 – online article | September 12, 2025

The Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) announced the winners of the third annual Workforce Development Hero Awards. These awards celebrate people and organizations who strengthen Hawaii’s workforce.

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Honoring Workforce Leaders

September marks Workforce Development Month. Each year, Hawaii highlights leaders who give residents the skills and opportunities to succeed. This year’s awardees represent innovators who create pathways to employment and resilience.

DLIR Director Jade T. Butay emphasized the mission. “We want to give businesses access to skilled workers while helping job seekers secure meaningful careers. That balance is key as Hawaii’s economy evolves.”

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Building Stronger Pathways

Bennette Misalucha, Executive Director of the Workforce Development Council, praised the honorees’ impact. “Each Workforce Development Hero went above and beyond to create opportunities. Their work empowered individuals, strengthened communities, and boosted Hawaii’s competitiveness.”

The Future of Work Conference will recognize the awardees and finalists on September 24, 2025, at the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii.

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Why This Matters to RescueMeds

At RescueMeds, we see a direct link between workforce development and healthcare. Injured workers need fast access to prescriptions so they can heal and return to their jobs. Without timely care, recovery slows, and opportunities slip away.

Workforce leaders build careers. We build healthcare access. Together, we strengthen communities by ensuring workers can thrive at both work and home.

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Learn More

You can view the full list of Workforce Development Hero Award recipients in the original article. Their stories highlight how Hawaii is preparing its workforce for the future.