Hui Kapili 2025: Introducing Cohort 2
How business leaders are equipping local construction companies with tools to succeed in Hawaii’s competitive market.
aio and American Savings Bank (ASB) are pleased to announce the selection of 12 businesses to the second cohort of the Hui Kapili Accelerator, a program designed to provide local construction companies with the business skills and support needed to succeed in Hawaii’s challenging market.
The 10-week program, facilitated by aio, Hawaii Home + Remodeling, and ASB, covers a range of topics including employee recruitment and retention, digital marketing, understanding your financials, and more. The 2025 cohort will hear from some of Hawaii’s top organizations and executives in their fields, like the Small Business Association, Gentry Homes, and Albert C. Kobayashi.
Cohort 2 was welcomed with inspiring insights from Ann Teranishi, president and CEO at American Savings Bank, and Duane Kurisu, aio Founder and Chairman.
“American Savings Bank is committed to doing our part to keep kamaaina working, living and thriving right here at home,” said Ann Teranishi, president and CEO at American Savings Bank. “We are excited to once again partner with aio on this program to uplift small- to mid-sized construction-related businesses that are building affordable homes, creating infrastructure, and providing local jobs throughout our communities.”
The Department of Business and Economic Development Tourism (DBEDT) found that Hawaii now needs 41,118 housing units between 2025 and 2035, if population growth follows historical trends. With the lack of affordable housing and the high cost of living, residents are leaving for opportunities out of state. Hawaii’s construction industry is projected to remain steady, with many jobs offering a living wage and the opportunity to stay in Hawaii. Hui Kapili aims to bridge the gap between Hawaii’s labor shortage and construction industry demand.
“We saw how impactful this program was for the first cohort where the group was able to learn from our presenters and each other, forge bonds and connections, and even help each other generate leads and opportunities,” said Susan Eichor, aio CEO. “Within our aio family of companies, we want to support Hawaii’s small business community, and this program does just that for a critical and essential industry that is building a better future for us all.”
The 12 companies selected include general contractors, masonry, electrical, foundation support, and more, with one based on Hawaii Island.
Introducing the Second Hui Kapili Cohort:
• Jeremy Imai, Foundation Support of Hawaii
• Curtis Ishikawa, Lahui Construction
• Derek Kalai, Boom Hawaii Builders
• Kekoa Kamalani, Ikeya Construction
• Landon Nakata, Turn 2 Construction
• Christie Roman and Randy Roman, Romsco, Inc.
• Arthur Rosa, Jr. and Cyd Rosa, Character Builders Construction
• Ralph Sakauye, BORA, Inc.
• Roxie Sylva and Reuben Fulks, Hawaii Metal Recovery
• Brieanna Thomson, Sunrise Asphalt Services
• Jonathan Ward, Dream Closets Hawaii
• Hans Wurlitzer, HW Masonry
Cohort 2 enjoyed a community work day at Paepae O Heeia to begin the program with an inspiring team building experience. Participants built a smoker at the fishpond to prepare smoked fish and octopus to share with the community.
“The Hui Kapili Accelerator program was an incredible experience for me and my business,” said Tiffanie Gardner, Top Priority, Inc. and Cohort I member. “The speakers and sessions were tailored to the construction industry making this cohort unique to others out there. The networking and opportunities were also incredibly helpful for us to take our business to the next level.”
In lieu of a program fee, participants will engage in a meaningful community project that aims to make Hawaii stronger and more resilient for future generations.
For more information about the Hui Kapili Accelerator or to inquire about future cohorts, please visit huikapili.com.
