Kupu is seeking an undergraduate Summer Workforce Development Research Intern to support two strategic research projects focused on the future of workforce development in the Energy, Agriculture, and Conservation sectors. The intern will conduct a literature review examining workforce trends, emerging skills, and the impact of AI on these industries, as well as help lead a survey-based study with Kupu host site partners and alumni to identify workforce training needs and opportunities for continued alumni engagement. The internship will culminate in two written reports summarizing findings and recommendations to help strengthen Kupu’s workforce development programming.
Position Goals
Conduct research on future workforce trends in the Energy, Agriculture, and Conservation sectors, with a special focus on the impact of AI and emerging workforce needs
Gather and analyze feedback from Kupu alumni and host site partners to identify workforce preparation gaps, desired trainings, and opportunities for continued alumni engagement
Develop two final reports with findings and recommendations to help strengthen Kupu’s workforce development and training programs for young adults
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
Literature Review & Workforce Trends Research
Conduct a comprehensive literature review on future workforce trends within the Energy, Agriculture, and Conservation sectors
Research emerging career pathways, industry changes, technological advancements, and evolving workforce demands
Analyze how artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and related technologies may impact jobs, workforce readiness, and skill development within each sector
Identify key competencies, certifications, technical skills, and soft skills that young adults may need to succeed in these industries over the next 5–10 years
Synthesize findings from academic journals, industry reports, government publications, nonprofit research, and other credible sources
Prepare a final written report summarizing findings, trends, and recommendations for Kupu programming
Workforce Training Needs Assessment Study
Assist in designing surveys and/or interview questions for Kupu host site partners and alumni
Conduct outreach and engagement with stakeholders to collect survey responses and feedback
Analyze survey data to identify common themes and workforce preparation gap.
Research and Summarize: Trainings alumni wish they had received during their Kupu experience
Research and Summarize: Skills and knowledge they found necessary upon entering the workforce
Research and Summarize: Emerging training needs they did not anticipate earlier in their careers
Explore opportunities for alumni-focused continuing education or workforce development programming
Prepare a second final report summarizing findings and recommendations
General Responsibilities
Participate in team meetings and project planning discussions
Maintain organized research notes, documentation, and files
Present findings and recommendations to Kupu staff at the conclusion of the internship
Perform other related duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications:
Current undergraduate student pursuing a degree in social sciences, public policy, environmental studies, sustainability, education, economics, workforce development, communications, business, or a related field
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Strong research, analytical, and organizational skill.
Ability to synthesize information from multiple sources into clear summaries and recommendations
Experience using Microsoft Office or Google Workspace application.
Ability to work independently while managing multiple tasks and deadlines
Interest in workforce development, youth development, sustainability, or community-based work
Preferred Qualifications:
Previous experience conducting research, literature reviews, surveys, or data analysis
Familiarity with workforce development, career pathways, or education and training systems
Interest in emerging technologies and the impact of AI on the workforce
Experience with survey platforms such as Google Forms, SurveyMonkey, or Qualtrics
Knowledge of HawaiĘ»i’s environmental, agricultural, energy, or conservation sectors
Experience engaging with community partners or conducting stakeholder outreach
Passion for Kupu’s mission and commitment to empowering youth through service and career development
Physical Requirements:
Due to the nature of Kupu’s programs, the physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Examples include:
Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other applicable federal/state regulations, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards
Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA, HFLL, and other applicable federal/state regulations, and organizational standards
Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
Must be able to talk, listen and speak clearly on telephone
