The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s College of Engineering recently held its 26th annual banquet at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, attracting students, faculty, alumni, and industry leaders. This gathering was a chance to celebrate the college’s contributions to innovation and community.
The night kicked off with a project expo. Students showcased hands-on work in areas like aerospace, robotics, sustainability, and artificial intelligence. Some standout projects included bioinspired soft robotics, student-built satellites, and autonomous drones. These projects align with the university’s sustainability goals and offer a glimpse into real-world engineering applications.
After welcoming remarks from Dean Brennon Morioka, UH President Wendy Hensel, and Governor Josh Green, an awards ceremony took place. Awards were given to individuals who made significant contributions to the engineering community. Dayna Nemoto-Shima and Brandon Shima received the Outstanding Service Award. Greg Hiyakumoto was celebrated as a Distinguished Alumni, and Bharath Kadaba earned the Dean’s Award of Excellence.
Dean Morioka emphasized the importance of connecting talent to opportunities. He stated that the partnerships formed at events like these are vital for the local economy. They empower students and foster a culture of solving problems within Hawaiʻi.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of a significant student project focused on unexploded ordnance (UXO). This interdisciplinary effort employs advanced sensing technologies and robotics to detect UXOs. Such projects are essential in addressing environmental and safety concerns long-standing within the community.
Kamalani Goo, a leader of the UXO project, shared, “Connecting with the community is crucial. They understand the issues better than anyone else.” This sentiment echoes a trend among younger generations who are increasingly valuing community engagement and sustainability in engineering solutions.
The event closed with a live auction and networking opportunities, reinforcing a commitment to advancing engineering in Hawaiʻi. The college expressed gratitude to its donors and industry partners, whose support provides scholarships, mentorship, internships, and career development to students.
In recent years, a study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers found that about 60% of internships lead to job offers, highlighting the importance of such partnerships. This event not only celebrated achievements but also opened doors for future generations of engineers dedicated to making a difference in their communities.
For more information on the College of Engineering, visit their official website.
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