Exploring STEM Pathways: How University of Hawai‘i Interns are Shaping the Future at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard

On June 12, 2025, high school students from the University of Hawai‘i’s JESSE program visited Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. This hands-on experience aims to inspire young minds to consider careers in engineering and STEM fields that support the U.S. Navy’s operations in the Pacific.

The Joint Enrollment, Summer STEM Experience (JESSE) program helps students explore science, technology, engineering, and math while earning college credits. It connects them with mentors and real-world experiences, encouraging early interest in these in-demand fields. According to the University of Hawai‘i College of Engineering, this program fosters a love for STEM, a field that is increasingly essential for our tech-driven world. You can learn more about JESSE here.

The visit, organized by PHNSY & IMF’s STEM outreach program, is part of broader workforce development efforts. It’s crucial for preparing the next generation of engineers to bring new ideas that keep the Navy strong.

“Our JESSE interns get to see the opportunities available right here at home,” said Kim Perez Hult, director at the University of Hawai‘i College of Engineering. She highlighted the strong partnership between the shipyard and the university, emphasizing the career growth possibilities in engineering.

The day kicked off with a presentation in the shipyard’s iLAB Collaboration Room. Students learned about the shipyard’s mission, workforce needs, and various career paths, including the SMART Scholarship funded by the Department of Defense. They also participated in an engineering challenge, where they worked alongside professional engineers to solve actual issues faced in the shipyard. This hands-on project allowed students to enhance their critical thinking skills.

Matt Cook, an engineer at PHNSY, noted how impressed he was by the students’ engagement. “I expected to guide them, but their questions were insightful. One even asked something I hadn’t thought of,” he shared. He hopes students took away the value of questioning and challenging assumptions.

The tour concluded with a behind-the-scenes look at the shipyard, where students saw how advanced Navy ships are maintained. It was an eye-opening experience, showcasing the importance of engineering in keeping the fleet “Fit to Fight.”

As we look to the future, the demand for skilled engineers will only grow. A recent report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 6% increase in engineering jobs by 2029, underscoring the importance of programs like JESSE in cultivating talent.

This initiative not only prepares students for careers but also strengthens the connection between education and industry, ensuring that the U.S. Navy’s needs are met with fresh, innovative perspectives.

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