Episode #92: Closing The Skills Gap Through Online Learning Artwork

Voice of Business Podcast by the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii

Join the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii for weekly conversations with Hawaii's business community. Sponsored by ALTRES and hosted by Jo McGarry, this podcast will tell the story of business in Hawaii, and will address the challenges of adapting to an ever changing economy. The podcast will also serve as a valuable resource to anyone looking to grow their business, or hear the inside story of some of Hawaii’s most influential employers.

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Voice of Business Podcast by the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii

Episode #92: Closing The Skills Gap Through Online Learning

June 04, 2025 • Chamber of Commerce Hawaii

As Hawaii faces ongoing workforce shortages across critical industries, this episode explores how online education and flexible degree programs are helping to close the gap. Host Kara Doles Hughes of Leihoohie sits down with Jeannie Lum, Outreach Partnership Specialist at University of Maryland Global Campus, to discuss how upskilling initiatives are preparing local employees with in-demand skills while addressing the evolving needs of Hawaii’s economy. The conversation highlights the growing impact of remote learning in expanding access to professional development, especially for working adults balancing career and family. Through local success stories and industry-aligned programs, this episode showcases how innovative education pathways are strengthening Hawaii’s workforce and building long-term economic resilience.

As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is a statewide, non-profit organization whose mission is to serve as the advocate for business in Hawaii. Learn more online at cochawaii.org, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.