SENATORS AWARD OUTSTANDING INTERN AT THE OPERATION HIRE HAWAIʻI CENTRAL OʻAHU RECRUITMENT EVENT
- Hawaiʻi State Senate
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
WAHIAWĀ, HAWAIʻI – As part of Operation Hire Hawaiʻi the Department of Human Resources Development (DHRD) organized the Central Oʻahu Recruitment Event, which was held at the Wahiawā Value-Added Product Development Center (WVAPDC). The event brought together 25 state departments, with eight agencies conducting on-site interviews to address critical staffing needs across the government. More than 200 attendees participated, resulting in 50 same-day interviews.
Director Brenna Hashimoto and DHRD employees emphasized the importance of coordinated recruitment strategies and cross-department collaboration to attract and retain talent in high-demand fields.
“The CORE event in Wahiawā was a powerful demonstration of what’s possible when departments across state government come together with a shared commitment to public service. With over 230 attendees, 50+ onsite interviews, and strong community engagement, we saw firsthand the impact of making civil service opportunities more accessible,” said Director Brenna Hashimoto of the Department of Human Resources Development, “I’m especially proud of the collaboration among our teams and the thoughtful outreach that brought so many qualified candidates through the door. This event not only connected people to meaningful careers—it also reaffirmed our mission to serve the people of Hawai‘i with excellence and heart.”
During the recruitment event, Angela Lindberg was recognized as the Outstanding Intern for the City and County of Honolulu. Angela completed her internship at the Wahiawā Correctional Facility and has since accepted a permanent position with the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
Awarding of the Senate Certificate
(L:R Deputy Director Brian Furuto, Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz, Director Brenna Hashimoto, Antonio Toalifi, Director Jade Butay, Senator Brandon J.C. Elefante and Maricar Pilotin-Freitas)
The event also showcased the State’s commitment to developing future public sector leaders through the Hele Imua Program, a 12-week paid internship administered by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR). This program provides eligible candidates with hands-on experience in high-need occupations across both state government and the private sector. Across the State, 130 Hele Imua interns have been hired for full time positions within State departments.
“My experience in the Hele Imua Internship Program truly shifted the course of my professional life. I entered the program focused on pursuing medical school, and even after being accepted, I discovered that my true passion was in teaching substance abuse treatment to incarcerated men. My mentor, Cy Kalama, always reminded us that ‘this is not hard work, it is heart work,’ and that wisdom changed the way I saw my role and the impact I could make. Receiving the Ka Liko Lawelawe Award was an incredible honor, but the greatest gift was finding a purpose that speaks to both my heart and my future.” said Angela Lindberg of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
“Angela’s service to our population is excellent and truly embodies the "ALOHA" spirit both cultural and a way of life deeply rooted in Hawaiian values,” said Antonio Toafili of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, “Working with Hele Imua has always felt collaborative, uplifting, and rooted in genuine community spirit. We are truly grateful for everything they do.”
“We are deeply thankful to the Legislature for recognizing the value of Hele Imua and for providing state funding support. With sustained backing, we can address workforce needs across the State,” said Director Jade Butay of the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.
"Hawai‘i must continue to support residents in finding meaningful careers at home. Programs like Hele Imua, which connect internships to full-time employment, are vital to keeping our communities strong," said Senator Brandon J.C. Elefante(District 16 – ‘Aiea, ‘Aiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City), Chair of the Senate Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs. "I’m especially inspired by participants like Angela Lindberg, from the City and County of Honolulu, who is receiving the Ka Liko Lawelawe Award for Outstanding Intern for her dedication and impressive work within the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Most notably, it’s encouraging to see engaged community members thrive in public service and contribute to the safety of our state."
“As a community member of Central O‘ahu, Angela brings both skill and heart to her service, and I’m pleased to see her recognized with the Ka Liko Lawelawe Award,” said Senator Donovan M. Dela Cruz (District 17 – Portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "Angela's success shows what’s possible when we invest in local talent and create clear pathways into public service careers—strengthening our workforce to meet community needs and maintain consistent delivery of public services.”
The State continues to strengthen pathways into public service through strategic recruitment, interagency partnerships, and expanded internship opportunities. These efforts are essential for retaining local talent and ensuring State vacancies are being filled.