The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement is offering commercial driver license classes to assist Maui wildfire victims in rebuilding their lives and community. These classes now prioritize training in hazardous material cleanup, providing an opportunity for workforce development.
Maui Mayor Richard Bissen has announced a phased reopening plan for west Maui and its hotels, with visitors allowed starting from October 8th. This plan comes after the area has supported disaster victims and provided accommodation to the 7,800 people displaced by the wildfires.
“In total, nearly 8,000 people — roughly 80% of the population affected by the disaster — have been receiving non-congregate shelter and support services in 40 hotels and other lodging since the disaster,” noted Gov. Josh Green’s office.
Maui residents have expressed concerns about being able to rebuild their homes and lives in the wake of the devastating Aug. 8 wildfires. The town of Lahaina and cherished Native Hawaiian areas, such as the Na ‘Aikane o Maui Lahaina Cultural Center, have been destroyed.
Rebuilding and removing fire debris are major obstacles for residents, businesses, and government agencies.
“Debris removal is occurring in phases to ensure the safety and cultural sensitivities of the affected communities,” according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
The only Maui locations that remain completely closed have been historic Lahaina Town and surrounding areas impacted by the wildfires.
President Joe Biden has approved additional federal funds for Hawaii to assist with wildfire debris removal and emergency protective measures. The funding will cover 100% of eligible costs for debris removal for a continuous period of 180 days, to be selected by the state within the first nine months.
Maui officials have outlined two phases for fire recovery. The first phase, which began in mid-September, involves the removal of hazardous materials and infrastructure assessment by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The second phase, yet to be scheduled, will focus on the removal of approved fire-damaged materials and conducting environmental testing to ensure safety for property rebuilding.
Lahaina residents in Maui County are encouraged to return and assess their properties, although no specific date has been set as of October 2nd.
The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, in collaboration with the Hawaiian Trades Academy, has begun offering free workforce certification classes for Maui residents. These classes cover five different types of hazardous material handling and rebuilding-related jobs. Local companies will participate in job placement efforts. The certification courses include Occupational Safety and Health Administration training for construction jobs, ranging from basic workplace hazard awareness to a more comprehensive course for safety directors and field supervisors on OSHA compliance and safety protocols.
In addition, there will be three Hazardous Materials Training Programs designed for worker safety and compliance.
- “Handling Dangerous Materials with Care” – Get informed on the potential risks and best practices for dealing with hazardous substances at home or work.
- “Stay Safe at Hazardous Waste Sites” – This program is perfect for workers with limited time in uncontrolled waste areas. Learn essential safety procedures to minimize exposure to hazardous substances.
- “Kick-start Your Hazardous Waste Career” – Ideal for newcomers to Hazwoper jobs, this course equips you with the skills to properly perform cleanup duties and comply with OSHA’s standards.
The academy has been empowering economically and socially disadvantaged Hawaiian communities with workforce development education, leading to increased household incomes for the past four years.
“We need to make sure that our Maui residents and Maui-based companies are front and center when these job opportunities become available. Our classes will help to ensure that they are prepared to take on that task,” said Kuhio Lewis, council CEO. “These workforce development courses will provide opportunities for individuals who have lost their jobs as a result of the fires. We want to help empower the Maui community to move forward together.”
The council is introducing workforce training opportunities for CDLs, carpentry, and forklift safety. If you’re a resident of Maui and interested in these programs, simply fill out the online form at hawaiiancouncil.org/maui-workforce-dev to express your interest.
“We are also looking for local companies who want to provide training for their employees. We can help facilitate group training classes for them,” added Lewis.
There are also plans to offer a six-week CDL A class. This comprehensive program includes everything you need to obtain a commercial learner’s permit, ace the entry-level driver training test, and master the skills behind the wheel. To join, all you need is to be 21 or older, hold a valid driver’s license, and have a current medical examiner’s certificate. Plus, they’ll be offering a two-day CDL hazmat endorsement course for those who want to add a hazardous materials endorsement to their CDL.
Source: Transport Topics
