HSTC HSTI AFCEA HVCA PTC HTCA AITP IEEE HTDC HSDC NELHA MEDB HIEDB KEDB EH HARC HCIA

The Hawaii technology industry is supported by many associations and organizations, both formal and informal. Many local associations have affiliations with national and international associations. These connections are important for a State 2,500 miles away from the continental U.S.

Each major island group also form organizations in their region. The internet age provides excellent tools for long distance interaction. However, there’s something about personal interactions that moves initiatives forward.

While the institutional and state government organizations provide a solid base, it’s the informal groups that keep the industry energized. Using innovative Web 2.0 tools such as Facebook, Ning, and an online rack of the top news of the day, these technologies are the most informed and networked group in the state. Add Twitter and this group operates in real time.

» Continue reading “ACRONYM Soup”

Large national corporations such as IBM, Motorola, Computer Sciences Corp, Raytheon and Pioneer Hi-Bred International dominated the early years in Statehood.   Hawaii start-up companies that survived the 2-5 year early stages are growing and many are successful.  Not all companies survived, but entrepreneurs continue to find opportunities and start new companies.

» Continue reading “Start-up, Growth Company and Large Corporation”

Hawaii was once described as a “sleepy little town”. This comment was probably made when only one hotel resided on Waikiki beach. Over time another hotel popped up, then another; harbor facilities were expanded to accommodate the ships; then the airports were built for the planes. Over 7,000,000 visitors travel to Hawaii annually.

Cranes popped up around Honolulu as real estate development grew. Thousands of homes were built on Oahu and the development continued on Kauai, Maui and Hawaii islands.

Tourism and construction are major industries in Hawaii today.

The innovation and technology industry did not experience the same dramatic growth. “Emerging” best describes its development. However, similar initiatives that shaped the tourism and construction industries are evident in the tech sector.

» Continue reading “Build It and They Will Come”

Hawaii is celebrating the 50th anniversary of Statehood this year.  Hawaii joined the Union on August 21, 1959. Members of the 50^th Anniversary of Statehood Commission have planned a year-long celebration of events and activities that honor the past, respect the present and look to the future. Acknowledging that the future lies within our children, the Commission, along with the support of the Hawaii State Department of Education and the Hawaii Association of Independent Schools have been focusing on outreach programs to students K-12.

» Continue reading “Fifty Years of Technology Development in Hawaii”