SAIPAN — A new door into the CNMI workforce opens this week. The Saipan Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with CNMI Tech PIECS under Northern Marianas College’s University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, has launched Career Pathways: Project H.A.F.A., short for Helping All Find Advancement, an initiative connecting individuals with disabilities to meaningful work experience across the Commonwealth.
The program offers a four-week experience bringing together local employers and aspiring talent. Selected interns will explore careers across industries, build workplace skills and develop professional relationships while gaining first-hand experience of the workforce. Beginning August 10, participants engage in screening, placement and workplace-readiness preparation before starting internships that run from August through September, with a week of workplace exposure leading into skill development and career connections.
“At the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, we believe that a stronger workforce begins by creating opportunities for everyone to contribute their talents and reach their full potential,” said SCC Executive Director Kimm Camacho. “Our partnership with UCEDD TECH PIECS reflects a commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities to gain valuable workplace experience, build confidence, and develop skills that can lead to long-term employment. Together with TECH PIECS, we are moving our community forward through enterprise by ensuring that opportunity is accessible to everyone who is ready to contribute.”
“The CNMI TechPIECS, under the University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, is pleased to partner with the Saipan Chamber of Commerce to expand Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) opportunities for individuals with disabilities,” said Eileen Alepuyo Babauta, CNMI Tech PIECS Program Director and UCEDD Director. “Together, we are committed to strengthening workforce development, connecting participants with local employers, and creating pathways to meaningful employment that benefit individuals, businesses, and the CNMI community.”
The organizations said participating businesses expand workforce development while recognizing untapped talent, opening their doors for participants to contribute, learn and grow. Businesses interested in becoming a participating employer or supporting future cohorts can complete the industry partner survey at tinyurl.com/projecthafa or contact the Chamber at (670) 234-7150 or contactus@saipanchamber.org.
