Hawaii Workforce Development Council confirms Scott Collins reappointment with strong support

The Senate Committee on Labor and Technology convened on April 6, 2025, to discuss key nominations and testimonies related to the Hawaii Workforce Development Council. The meeting began with David Moniz from the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) introducing various supporters of the nominees.

Several representatives from labor organizations expressed their support for the nominees. Taetuli Tafai from the United Public Workers, Randy Pereira, President of the Hawaii State Federation of Labor AFL-CIO, and Carol Phillips from the Hawaii Nurses Association all voiced their backing. Additionally, Mario Higa from the Marine Firemen's Union and Randy Swindell from the Hawaii Ports Maritime Council also testified in favor of the nominees.

Benette Misalucha, Executive Director of the Workforce Development Council, reiterated the strong support for the nominees, emphasizing that they had been properly vetted in accordance with federal mandates.

The committee then moved on to consider the confirmation of Scott Collins, nominated to serve on the Workforce Development Council until June 30, 2028. Collins, who has been a member of the board since 2022, expressed gratitude for his reappointment and highlighted his experience in the public sector and union work, which he believes will be valuable in addressing workforce challenges.

The meeting continued with further testimonies from various labor representatives, all affirming their support for the nominees. The committee concluded the session without any questions from members, indicating a smooth progression towards the confirmation process.

Overall, the meeting underscored a strong consensus among labor organizations regarding the nominees for the Workforce Development Council, setting the stage for continued efforts to strengthen Hawaii's workforce.