John Nakata, a Kealakehe High School senior, was in the school’s automotive mechanics shop recently, reflecting on the time he’s spent with a cohort of fellow students the past two years, learning how to rebuild engines, take apart transmissions and other auto mechanics skills. 

“I’m going to miss this place, the environment, the people,” Nakata said.

Nakata is one of nine students completing a unique program that was a collaboration between Kealakehe High School and Hawai‘i Community College designed to place students on the fast track to automotive careers.

Note: This column appeared as part of the Kauhale News section in West Hawaii Today on April 8, 2021. 

Aloha, 

Hawai‘i Community College – Pālamanui and the University Center, West Hawai‘i have been at the current location in North Kona for almost six years after moving from Kealakekua. It’s been such a blessing to watch the connections  members of our community are making with our campus, sometimes in unique and unexpected ways.