Federal budget cuts to close Hilo Job Challenge Academy

The Hawaii National Guard plans to close the Hawaii Job Challenge Academy in Hilo after the current class graduates May 22 because of federal budget cuts. The Hilo academy gave graduates from the Hawaii Youth Challenge Academy on Oahu a chance to work toward a state and/or nationally recognized certification to prepare them to enter the workforce, Hawaii National Guard officials said in a news release this week. “It was not our choice to close the Hawaii Job Challenge Academy,” said Maj. Gen. Stephen F. Logan, Hawaii adjutant general. “With the success that we have had with the YCA, we were looking forward to providing additional opportunities to Hawaii’s youth. We will work with our staff and the upcoming JCA graduates to ensure a smooth transition.” The Youth Challenge Academy in Hilo transitioned into JCA in July 2024. The JCA was a 5-1/2-month residence program designed to provide participants with more training and preparation to become productive citizens, officials said. In two years, JCA had four classes that provided 56 young adults with hands- on training, professional development and certificates to help build their long-term success. “The department is currently developing a proposal for the governor and state Legislature to establish a different state-funded program in Hilo that would provide services comparable to those previously offered by the Job Challenge Academy,” said retired Brig. Gen. Bruce E. Oliveira, director of Na Kula Alaka‘i (Civilian Military Programs). “We extend our sincere gratitude to the staff, partners and participants whose dedication and commitment have made a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of the youth served by this program.” Don't miss out on what's happening! Stay in touch with breaking news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It's FREE! By clicking to sign up, you agree to Star-Advertiser's and Google's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA. Until a new program is established, there are immediate plans for the JCA facility at the Keaukaha Military Reservation, Guard officials said. “The JCA’s Hilo facility will be repurposed for another (Hawaii National Guard) program called STARBASE Academy,” said Oliveira. “The STARBASE Academy was established in 2008 and serves the Keaau community under the Hawaii National Guard Civilian Military Program.” STARBASE provides Hawaii island youths with science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, learning environments and positive role models, officials said.