Meet our Partners

AcquiLingua is an AI-powered language learning platform built around conversation practice, co-founded by Sean and Mark Feeney. Instead of structured lessons, quizzes, or vocabulary drills, AcquiLingua puts users into real conversations in your target language, personalized to your interests and calibrated to their current level. The platform is built on Comprehensible Input theory, the same methodology used by leading language acquisition researchers, including collaborators at USC who have worked directly alongside Dr. Stephen Krashen.

Possible project elements: Improving the User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) for AcquiLingua. Creating content, possible use of Node.js, and prompting AI to improve processes for AcquiLingua language learning.

Keywords: AI-assisted Language Acquisition, App Development, Data Collection & Analysis, Data Science, Marketing

Akami Intelligence a Native Hawaiian Organization (NHO)-owned 8(a) Small Business, built on the vision of Hawaii’s late Senator Daniel Inouye. At Akamai Intelligence, they focus on recruiting, training, and hiring local, Hawaii-based residents who were born and raised in Hawaii. Their core capabilities are cybersecurity, IT systems integration, engineering and installation. Lance Farias is the Vice President of Corporate Operations, with an extensive experience spanning Antiterrorism Force Protection, Air Base Defense, and Electronic Security Systems across the Air Force and federal programs.

Possible project elements: May assist with configuring and testing systems, cybersecurity research, technical documentation, data analysis, network or security-system diagrams, and project planning. Assignments would be supervised, hands-on, and connected to active business or technical needs while remaining appropriate for the intern’s experience and access level.

Keywords: Cybersecurity; Systems Integration; Secure Communications; Electronic Security; Critical Infrastructure.

The Marine Mammal Research Program (MMRP), led by Dr. Lars Bejder, investigates the ecology, behavior, and conservation of marine mammals in Hawaiian, national, and international waters. ExLENT partners with Jacob "Jake" Linsky, a Reasercher and Education staff member. Their research combines field observations, advanced technologies, and quantitative modeling to understand how marine mammals live, move, and respond to a changing ocean. Current projects range from assessing the abundance and distribution of small odontocetes around the Hawaiian Islands, to developing automated tools for improving the identification of individual animals from photographs, to estimating whale populations using satellite imagery. They use drones to assess body condition and health, deploy suction-cup tags to study fine-scale behavior, and also look at the population consequences of anthropogenic disturbance.

Possible project elements: Work directly with satellite data and GIS software. Depending on student interest, specific projects could focus on applying these data to either A) develop tools (e.g. CV detectors, automated analysis workflows) or B) answer biological questions (e.g. describe animal distributions using satellite data).

Keywords: Satellite, AI, Marine Biology

Cyrus Howe's works with Hawaiʻi Green Growth focuses on enhancing Hawaiʻi's resilience by leading a distributed green stormwater infrastructure initiative in the Pālolo Valley and Ala Wai Watershed. As part of the Hawaiʻi Green Growth UN Local2030 Hub, this public-private partnership employs a systems-based approach, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, to address runoff management through community collaboration. The project utilizes advanced STEM tools for hydrological assessment to inform infrastructure design that mitigates flooding, recharges aquifers, and improves watershed sustainability.

Possible project elements: Work closely with both HGG's watershed team and their engineering partners at Roth Ecological Design International to monitor and analyze data from installed BioCatchment Boxes that will be situated at five different residential microclimates to test performance of both different plants and performance. Translate data and science into laypersons' terms to apprise the public of this cutting edge innovation in progress, and to continue stimulating funding to continue scaling up the project.

Keywords: Green stormwater infrastructure

Andrew Pettit is a Ph.D. student at the Hawai’i Institute of Marine Biology, under the Marine Conservation Innovation Group (MCIG). Through this research they bring together cutting-edge science, design, and technology to tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing marine ecosystems today. The MCIG builds on research by Elizabeth Madin and Joshua Madin, whose work on habitat structure, spatial ecology, and remote sensing has helped to reshape how we understand, conserve and monitor reef ecosystems at scale.

Possible project elements: Annotating and quality-checking camera-trap or satellite imagery, preparing datasets for machine learning models, evaluating model detections, and using R, Python, or GIS to visualize and interpret results. Test fisheries management scenarios using population model and translate the results into accessible figures or interactive tools for community partners. Collecting fishing effort data from the Lanikai Pillbox.

Keywords: Conservation, Fisheries, Remote sensing, Population modeling

The Hawai‘i Natural Energy Institute (HNEI) was created in 1974 to stimulate the development of natural energy resources and reduce fossil fuel use in Hawai‘i. Through multidisciplinary research and education and public-private partnerships, HNEI has emerged as a leader for sustainable energy deployment and demonstration projects in Hawai‘i. A core part of HNEI’s mission is to help guide Hawai‘i through its clean energy transformation by focusing on cost effective and practical solutions to help deliver commercially viable renewable energy for Hawai‘i and the world. Troy Hietman was appointed as an Assistant Researcher to support the development of the Hawaii Marine Energy Center (HMEC) and to lead R&D projects focused on: 1) improving the efficiency of hydraulic power take-off systems, and 2) studying the far-field impacts of wave energy converters on coastal processes. 

Keywords: Renewable Energy Technologies, Coastal Wave Modeling, Renewable Energy, Ocean Engineering, Wave Energy Conversion

Noah Pentelovitch brings over a decade of experience in the design of watertight enclosures to Hohonu, having worked across all phases of product design, development, and manufacturing from prototyping to mass production. Hohonu builds sensors and applications that can be utilized to predict flooding and monitor flood events over land as well as monitor and predict tidal fluctuations. This information is incredibly valuable to cities that are seeing increases in flood events due to sea level rise, major rain and river-overtopping events. Hohonu helps communities build resilience by giving them tools to monitor, in real time, flood events so that they can alert the community and organize emergency resources. Hohonu also partners with Loko I'a to provide monitoring for water level to assist in restoration of Hawaiian fish ponds.

Possible project elements: 3D printing and assembly of Hohonu's sensors that are used to predict flooding and monitor flood events over land as well as monitor and predict tidal fluctuations. Interns have a chance at fieldwork at sensor sites (all around Oʻahu) and some programming.

Keywords: Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Data Analysis / Data Science, Applied Technology, Climate Adaptation, Ecological Management, Hardware, Low-cost Remote Sensors, Networking, Real-time water level data, Environmental Monitoring, Sensor technology, Climate Resilience

Cindy Matsuki is an Economic Development Specialist for the Hawaiʻi Small Business Innovation Research (HSBIR) at the Hawai‘i Technology Development Corporation (HTDC), a state agency under the Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT) focused on growing Hawai‘i’s innovation and technology economy. Created in 1983, the Hawaiʻi Technology Development Corporation (HTDC), is the state’s economic development agency focused on developing the technology sector. Since its inception, technology has evolved and permeates facets of all industries and provides quality, high-paying jobs for Hawaiʻi residents. HTDC continues to innovate and create programs relevant to meet the changing technology industry. In addition to providing incubation facilities to foster the growth of technology startups, HTDC provides capital and building infrastructure, has grant programs, educational and networking programs, statewide mentoring and technology workforce development.

Possible project elements: Event support, process improvement ideas, administrative support of programs.

Keywords: Ocean, Space, Advanced Manufacturing

Matthew Feeley joins remote underwater imaging technology with AI-assisted data analysis to predict safe and ideal dive conditions. LuʻuLive integrates data from established networks of ocean buoys and meteorological stations, providing a foundation of information on wave heights, currents, and general weather patterns. Additionally, LuʻuLive combines data with localized, real-time observations to deliver accurate and actionable water quality and dive condition forecasts.

Possible project elements: Diving 100yds off-shore and collecting underwarer visability data in various dive locations. Interns will need to be intermediate to advanced swimming ability. The data will be used to improve Lu'uLive's AI-assisted data analysis to predict safe and ideal dive conditions.

Keywords: Data-science, Remote Sensing, Ocean and Atmospheric Condition Monitoring, AI-enabled Analyses, Machine Learning

Keith Matsumoto of PICHTR outlines a framework for technology innovation that integrates human-centered design, interdisciplinary STEM education, and the strategic development of dual-use technologies with applications spanning disaster recovery, emergency medical care, and sustainability initiatives. PICHTR facilitates public and private partnerships that conserve and utilize the natural resources of Hawaii and the Asia-Pacific region. They support developing and commercializing clean, renewable, and advanced technologies. Facilitate and advocate for the advancement of sustainable development by providing timely and useful information, expertise, and training on advanced and appropriate technologies. Engage with educational partners to prototype and test technologies with students and communities.

Possible project elements: The project will vary based on the interests and background of the interns, but will support technology development in Hawaii and provide exposure to companies for the interns.

Keywords: Dual-Use Technology, AI-based technology, Agricultural-Tech, Community & Culture

Ulu HI-Tech, Inc. is a Native Hawaiian Organization (NHO) owned 8(a) Cybersecurity, Cloud Integration, and DevSecOps company. They specialize in DevSecOps, which is the practice of integrating operations and security at every stage of software development. This allows them to create a truly agile development pipeline that sets their clients up for long term success. Emily Warren  is the General Manager, in her role she provides overall leadership for Ulu HI-Tech.

Possible project elements: Artificial Intelligence & Automation, Cybersecurity, Cloud & DevSecOps, Data Analytics & Visualization, Technology Workforce & Community Projects

Keywords: Tech consulting, DevSecOps, Cybersecurity

Founded in 2019, 3Rwater, Inc. was created to expand access to innovative water management solutions that strengthen climate resilience and support healthier communities. Founder Lauren Roth Venu is an ecopreneur, TEDx speaker, and published author focused on developing nature-based solutions for water and climate challenges. As the CEO of 3Rwater, Inc., she lead the development of Follow the Drop, a cloud-based tool designed to help water agencies and communities manage stormwater, reduce flooding, and improve water conservation. 

Possible project elements: Data analytics, React or MAUI feature development, cyber security, QA/QC, UI/UX design

Keywords: Climate-tech, Digital water, Rainwater capture

The Malacology Department curates one of the world’s largest mollusc collections — with millions of specimens from across the Pacific region — serving as a reference for research, conservation, and education. Dr. Norine W. Yeung is a malacology researcher at the Bishop Museum and University of Hawai’i, whose interdisciplinary work in conservation biology integrates advanced genomic analysis and museum informatics to investigate the impacts of environmental change on the diversity, distribution, and extinction risk of Pacific Island land snails. 

Keywords: Phylogenomics, Conservation Genetics, DNA Barcoding, Biodiversity Informatics, Integrative Taxonomy, Museum Science, Cryopreservation, Invertebrate ecology 

The Pacific Center for Molecular Biodiversity at the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum works in evolutionary ecology and systematics integrates genomic analysis and biodiversity informatics to investigate the generation, maintenance, and conservation of invertebrate biodiversity, with a focus on Pacific Island mollusks and other understudied taxa. This research is dedicated to addressing the biodiversity crisis through integrative taxonomy, phylogenomics, and conservation genetics, leveraging museum collections and advanced molecular techniques to prevent extinctions and inform large-scale ecosystem management.

Keywords: Genomic analysis, Phylogenomics, Digitization of Collections, Integrative Taxonomy, Bioinformatics, Conservation genomics, Species distribution modeling, Non-invasive survey techniques

Center for Resilient Neighborhoods (CERENE) works in collaboration with the City and County of Honolulu Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency as well as the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa along with a network of engaged community collaborators such as the Waikīkī Community Center, Ko’olauloa Community Resilience Center, “We are Oceania”, and many others. The Telehealth & Resilience Hubs TI-PAR Pilot Study, led by Dr. Miku and Dr. Nakano with KCC students and Coast Guard cadets, integrates Indigenous knowledge, social science methods, and community-led resilience. Through this work, students gained training in research, leadership, and intercultural competence while directly contributing to KALGOV’s resilience planning. The pilot also strengthened ties between higher education and frontline climate action.

Keywords: Technology and Innovation, Disaster Preparedness, Governance and Policy, Food Security and Sustainability

Nicole Cacal is a leader in innovation who’s all about using technology to build a more inclusive and sustainable future for Hawai‘i. As the Executive Director of the TRUE Initiative, she helps local businesses and leaders navigate the world of tech, from AI to cloud computing, making complex tools easy to understand and use. With a background leading Forbes Ignite and teaching at schools like Parsons and Pratt, Nicole brings a mix of high-level strategy and hands-on design to everything she does. She holds degrees from Columbia University and the Parsons School of Design, and she’s passionate about the idea that entrepreneurship and collaboration are the keys to long-term success. Potential projects could involve building AI-readiness toolkits for local small businesses or using human-centered design to make community digital tools more user-friendly. Collaborations might also focus on creating new training paths for the local workforce in areas like ethical AI and data strategy, as well as researching how tech can solve environmental challenges unique to island life.

Keywords: Human-Centered Design (HCD), Digital Transformation, AI Strategy, Technology Adoption, Social Innovation

Ourspace is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit makerspace that blends technology, creativity, and social impact, providing resources and education to help individuals develop innovative solutions to societal challenges. Initially focused on tech-based print and prototype production, it is now expanding into emerging technologies like AI, robotics, and AR/VR. This presents a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in building and operating a creative tech space in Honolulu while networking with professionals and entrepreneurs actively using these technologies in their careers.

Possible project elements: Gain hands-on experience in building and operating a creative tech space in Honolulu while networking with professionals and entrepreneurs actively using these technologies in their careers. Interns have the chance to learn how Ourspace's large equipment works, help to create SOPs, and working on documentation. Ourspace has tools relating to 3D Printing & Prototyping,  Metalwork & Heavy Fabrication, Cutting & Engraving, and more!

Keywords: Makerspace, Emerging technologies, Additive and Subtractive Manufacturing, AR/AR, AI, Electronics, Robotics