Why this matters

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already present in our workplaces across Hawaiʻi, and there isnʻt always a clear roadmap on AI introduction and usage.

For many organizations — especially small businesses and nonprofits — they struggle with:

Not knowing where to start
Uncertainty about safety and privacy
Feeling overwhelmed by the pace of change
Limited training opportunities and resources

At a time when retaining local talent and building a resilient workforce matters more than ever, organizations need practical ways to build internal capacity and equip people to use AI wisely.

This pilot program offers an opportunity to do exactly that.

Not by replacing people with technology, but by helping people work alongside it — and without the need to hire outside consultants or build a dedicated tech team.

Who this is for

We are prioritizing applicants who:

Work at for-profit or non-profit Oʻahu-based organizations with 5–50 employees
Serve in HR, management, learning & development, or team leadership roles
Have basic comfort with everyday workplace technology (email, documents, video meetings, etc.)
Want to introduce AI thoughtfully and responsibly within their organization
Can participate in the in-person training in its entirety
Are committed to delivering at least 2 internal AI training sessions within 6 months of completing this training

No AI experience is required.

What you’ll learn

An understanding of what AI is and what it is not
Practical examples of how AI can support everyday workplace tasks
A simple framework for writing effective prompts
Guidance on AI risks, safety, and responsible use
Strategies for teaching AI to older adults and multigenerational teams
Hands-on microteaching practice with structured feedback

Application Information

The deadline to apply is 12:00 pm on March 30, 2026.

A cohort of no more than 12 participants will be selected to participate.
Applicants will be notified of selection decisions no later than April 6, 2026.
Qualified applicants who are not selected due to capacity will be placed on a waitlist.
If a selected participant declines or withdraws, individuals on the waitlist may be invited after April 6.

We recommend having the following ready before starting:

A brief letter or email of support (PDF) from the highest-ranking individual reasonably available (e.g., CEO, Executive Director, Department Head). The letter should confirm:

The organization supports your participation
You will have time to attend the full training
You are expected to deliver at least two internal AI training sessions within six months
Leadership supports staff participation in training evaluation surveys

A general sense of how many staff you could train after completing the training

Apply by March 30 @12 PM

Post-training commitment

This program is designed to extend beyond the initial training.

Using a train-the-trainer model, this means you will learn AI fundamentals in the initial training and then teach them to your own staff. (For example, through a series of workshops, team meetings, or staff training sessions.)

You are expected to deliver at least 2 internal training sessions to your staff within 6 months (before November 2026). Staff will be required to participate in brief evaluation surveys to improve future versions of the program.

To support your post-training teaching, you’ll also receive:

Practical resources
Ready-to-use templates
Evaluation activities

Organizational leadership confirming support for your participation and post-training teaching commitment is expected to ensure you have the time and backing to apply and share what you learn.

Instructors

Dr. Sandra von Doetinchem

Founder, Skilled Tomorrow

Dr. Sandra von Doetinchem is a nationally recognized expert on workforce transformation, lifelong learning, and aging. With 15 years of leadership experience at the intersection of workforce development, higher education, and corporate strategy, she brings a unique perspective on how demographic shifts are reshaping talent and learning systems. As Founder of Skilled Tomorrow, she helps organizations unlock the strategic value of their 50+ workforce and supports experienced professionals in designing purposeful career transitions.

Supervisor & Trainer, Māpunawai

Daniel Uyemura

With a deep commitment to digital equity and education, Daniel Uyemura serves as a Supervisor and Trainer for Māpunawai’s Community Digital Navigators Program, where he guides a team of community-based tech support professionals dedicated to empowering patrons through digital literacy. His training blends technical skills, soft skills, and ethical technology use, especially in the areas of AI and assistive technology. Previously, Daniel was a Computer Class Instructor and Instructor Trainer with Māpunawai, developing curricula and mentoring instructors to create engaging, confidence-building learning experiences for kupuna. Beyond technology training, Daniel has also worked as an Educational Mentor and Creative Coach, helping youth cultivate artistic expression and prepare for academic advancement through personalized, creative, and inspiring guidance.