Welcome to NexTech Hawaiʻi!
NexTech Hawaiʻi inspires and builds STEM career readiness in Hawaii's K-12 youth through tuition-free, place-based programs. Students explore CAD, 3D printing, drones, robotics, coding, engineering, and sustainability, while developing leadership, teamwork, mentoring, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Support our mission - Our tuition-free programs are possible through our generous volunteers and donors. Make a tax-deductible donation today.
Career Connected Learning - our secret sauce
This is a critical part of our mission to inspire students toward their desired careers and build professional ties for future learning and career experiences. This approach is foundational to our programs and is especially evident in our Exploration Workshops and Career Mentoring. Learn more about our approach to career-connected learning.
Where this all leads
Hawaiʻi County expects about 8,600 living-wage job openings from 2022 to 2032 for roughly 25,000 new workers. According to the Hawaiʻi Workforce Funders Collaborative, information technology and utilities are emergent opportunities for our island. NexTech offers keiki experiences and pathways that can connect to these careers.
3D Printer and CAD
Our 3D Printer Program is a free 6-week exploration and learning opportunity for Hawaii Island students and their families. To learn more and to reserve your spot, visit our 3D Printer Program page.
Our Programs
STEM Exploration Days and Advanced STEM Camps
These programs offer in-depth STEM-related skills training and project opportunities. Camps cover computer coding skills, CAD/3D printing, drone programming and operation, robotics, engineering design, and more. Learn more.
Science Nights and Days
This is a collaboration with Hawaii Science and Technology Museum. We offer elementary school students hands on experiences with drones and other technologies.
Career Mentoring
High school students are paired with STEM professionals. Younger students meet with mentors in small groups. Essential career skills (leadership, communication, collaboration) are emphasized, and students are offered interest assessments.
FishTank Sustainability Design Challenge
FishTank is an annual STEM engineering design competition open to 6-12 grade students on Hawaiʻi Island. Each competition focuses on a complex local issue, and teams compete for honors and awards and curated learning opportunities. FishTank participants work on authentic issues and develop new engineering mindsets. Learn more…