In a vibrant gathering at Maui County's city hall, community members came together to discuss the future of education and workforce development, particularly through the lens of the STEM Works program. The evening was marked by passionate testimonies from students and professionals alike, all advocating for the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in shaping the future of Maui.

One standout moment came from a sixth grader who shared her experiences in the STEM Works program. With enthusiasm, she recounted her participation in STEM nights and health care days, where she discovered the diverse career paths available in hospitals beyond just doctors and nurses. “I learned that there are people who do accounting, marketing, and IT work too,” she said, her eyes sparkling with possibility. This young student expressed a newfound ambition to explore careers in fields like astronomy and cybersecurity, inspired by her older brother's success as an electrical engineer.

The meeting also featured a nurse who highlighted the critical role of STEM education in addressing pressing community issues such as healthcare staffing shortages. With an aging population and a looming retirement wave among nurses, she emphasized the need for programs like STEM Works to engage young minds in healthcare careers. “Their programming is just amazing,” she stated, noting a significant increase in student interest in healthcare following recent events organized by the program.

As the discussions unfolded, it became clear that the STEM Works initiative is not just about education; it is a vital tool for economic development in Maui. Community members underscored the importance of equipping the next generation with the skills needed to tackle challenges like wastewater management and road safety. The testimonies painted a picture of a community rallying around its youth, fostering a sense of responsibility and opportunity.

The evening concluded with a call to action for continued support of the STEM Works program, ensuring that more students can access these transformative experiences. As the lights dimmed in the council chamber, the message was clear: investing in education today is essential for a thriving Maui tomorrow.