Meet our Partners

Sean Feeney co-founded app startups focused on ed-tech and travel-tech, using AI-powered tutors to help language learners reach fluency and virtual concierges to enhance travelers’ experiences. His passion for culture, languages, and business drives my global perspective, shaped by his studies at the University of Hawaiʻi and immersive experiences in Japan. Based in Waikīkī, he enjoys exploring Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty, sailing, and indulging in its vibrant culinary scene with friend.

Mark Feeney is an app developer who studied Mechanical Engineering at UC Berkeley w/ 40+ years of software & AI experience at Fortune 500 companies. He is the CEO @DaʻApp Hawaiʻi, and co-founder of @AcquiLingua.

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

Dr. Jacob “Jake” Linsky is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Hawai’i’s Hawai’i Institute of Marine Biology, whose interdisciplinary work in marine mammal ecology integrates advanced remote sensing and biotelemetry to investigate the impacts of environmental change on the physiology, behavior, and population dynamics of marine predators. His current research program is dedicated to developing novel, non-invasive methodologies for monitoring baleen whale abundance by leveraging satellite imagery and artificial intelligence, offering a critical technological advancement in large-scale marine conservation and population health assessment.

Possible project elements: Focus on marine mammal health and ecology. Examine whale health assessments, drone photography, biopsy collection, GIS analysis, and AI and machine learning training, providing exposure to cutting-edge marine research and fieldwork. Tech experience not required.

Keywords: Advanced Remote Sensing and Biotelemetry, Satellite Imagery and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

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: Interns will support the Follow the Drop team in conducting rainwater assessments using advanced STEM tools to recommend optimal green stormwater infrastructure for capturing runoff before it reaches waterways and the ocean. Interns have the chance of field work and 3D printing for stormwater infrastructure.

Keywords: Green stormwater infrastructure (GSI), Distributed Systems, Watershed Management, Environmental Sustainability, UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Resilience, Aquifer Recharge, Runoff Management, Systems-based solutions, STEM tools, Water conservation, AI enabled analyses, 3-D printing for flooding prevention

Andrew Pettit is a Ph.D. student at the Hawai’i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai’i at Manoa, where his research explores the cascading impacts of human activities on marine ecosystems. Growing up in San Diego with a deep passion for the ocean, he pursued his academic journey at UC Santa Barbara, earning dual bachelor’s degrees and an M.S. in Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology. His work spans diverse topics, including the ecological consequences of predator loss, the effectiveness of marine protected areas, and the global footprint of commercial fisheries. Pettit combines innovative research methods with a commitment to science communication, ensuring that his findings inform conservation efforts and policy decisions. His interdisciplinary approach reflects a dedication to translating complex ecological insights into actionable strategies for marine conservation.

Possible project elements: Focus on the impact of losing predatory fishes and the subsequent disruption of the “landscape of fear,” which normally helps regulate prey behavior and maintain reef balance. Investigates how human disturbances, particularly fishing pressure, alter coral reef ecosystems by influencing predator-prey dynamics and the overall reef structure.

Keywords: Remote sensors, Community Science, Science Translation, Population Dynamics, Nearshore Marine resource use, Marine predator loss, Marine protected areas (MPAs), Ecological Science, AI, Data Science

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. This role has allowed him to merge his passion for ocean engineering with real-world applications, advancing innovative wave energy solutions and inspiring others to explore the untapped potential of our oceans as a source of renewable energy. The Hawai‘i Natural Energy Institute (HNEI), a research unit of the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST) at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa (UHM), conducts research of state and national importance to develop, test, and evaluate novel renewable energy technologies.

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

Umma Berkelman is an experienced economic development professional serving as Economic Development Specialist 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.

Keywords: Aerospace, Coastal Resiliency, Health Care, Cyber Security, Policy making

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

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.

Darren “Dyo” Yomogida is the founder of Ourspace, a makerspace in Kaka‘ako designed to support small businesses, makers, and artists by providing access to advanced creative and technical resources. His vision for Ourspace emerged as a way to help local businesses recover post-pandemic by enabling them to innovate and produce high-quality designs on a budget.

Erika Lee is designer and creative director based in Hawai‘i, working where creativity, technology, and storytelling meet. She started her career in New York with places like IDEO — a global design company, and now focus on projects rooted in community, culture, and innovation — designing tools and experiences that build connection, equity, and belonging.

Akemi Hiatt is the Executive Director of OurSpace, a non-profit makerspace in Kaka'ako that provides Hawai'i's creative community with access to space, tools, and support. She is also an owner and design strategist at Hidden Gears, a Honolulu-based ecommerce agency with a global team. 

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

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. Drawing from extensive experience in government contracting and mentorship, he emphasizes experiential learning, the ethical implications of emerging tools like AI, and the critical importance of aligning technological projects with specific community and cultural needs to drive effective commercialization and positive societal impact.

Keywords: Dual-use technology, Human-centered Design, Technology Commercialization, STEM education, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum Computing, 3D printing, Sustainability, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Ethical AI

Gregory Hester is the CEO for Ulu HI-Tech, Inc., a Native Hawaiian Organization (NHO) owned 8(a) Cybersecurity, Cloud Integration, and DevSecOps company. Gregory is a Cybersecurity Maturity Model (CMMC) Cyber AB Registered Practitioner (RP) who has over 30 years of IT consulting, cybersecurity, and leadership experience. His knowledge of security frameworks, agile software development methodologies, enterprise and software architecture, and program and change management has allowed Gregory to become a technology and cybersecurity leader in diverse industries, including captive insurance, banking, finance, healthcare, manufacturing, publishing, and more.

Keywords: Cyber security, IT Consulting, Remote Help Desk Support, Field Tech Services, DevSecsOps, AI, Database, Middleware, Kubernetes Containers, Marketing

Lauren Roth Venu specializes in sustainable water management, climate adaptation, and green infrastructure, with expertise in water resource planning, ecological wastewater treatment, and policy development. As the CEO of 3Rwater, Inc., they 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. They hold an MSC in Oceanography from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and a BA in Environmental Sciencaes from the University of Colorado Boulder, with a focus on water law, hydrology, and natural resource management.

Possible project elements: Improving the User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) for the Follow the Drop App. Interns will utilize Language Models (ML) to help improve features within the app.

Keywords: Green stormwater infrastructure (GSI), Distributed Systems, Watershed Management, Environmental Sustainability, UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Resilience, Aquifer Recharge, Runoff Management, Systems-based solutions, STEM tools, Water conservation, AI enabled analyses, 3-D printing for flooding prevention

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. Her research program is dedicated to developing novel, integrative methodologies for species rediscovery and conservation by leveraging phylogenomics and collection digitization, offering a critical advancement in the preservation of one of the world's most threatened invertebrate groups.

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