BreakingGround 808 Returns for 2026, Building Educator Expertise Through Hands-On Learning and Industry Partnerships

BreakingGround 808 (BG808), the General Contractors Association of Hawaii’s (GCA) educator-focused workforce development program, is back for 2026, bringing together educators from five Hawaii Department of Education high schools for an immersive look at Hawaii’s construction industry.

BG808 is designed to immerse educators in the real-world workings of Hawaii’s construction industry so they can bring that knowledge directly back to their classrooms. By strengthening educators’ understanding of construction careers, project processes, and industry expectations, the program equips them to better prepare students for future opportunities in both the skilled trades and professional construction roles.

A Comprehensive Learning Experience

The 2026 BG808 program brings together educators from James B. Castle High, James Campbell High, Kahuku High & Intermediate, Kauai High, and Waipahu High for six days of structured learning that combine classroom instruction, hands-on building, and project site tours.

2026 PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS:

James B. Castle High
James Campbell High
Kahuku High & Intermediate
Kauai High
Waipahu High

2026 CONTRACTORS:

Jayar Construction, Inc.
Rosendin
Swinerton
T. Iida Contracting
Unlimited Construction Services

Morning classroom sessions introduce participants to the full life cycle of a construction project. Topics include an overview of the construction industry, construction roles and careers, and industry skill sets. Led by experienced construction professionals, these sessions provide real-world context and practical insights that educators can translate directly into their teaching.

Each participating high school is paired with a GCA member contractor - Jayar Construction, Inc., Rosendin, Swinerton, T. Iida Contracting, or Unlimited Construction Services - with representatives from each company participating alongside their assigned school throughout the program. These partnerships are intentionally designed to give educators direct access to industry mentors who understand both classroom needs and jobsite realities and who can continue to serve as resources and partners beyond BG808.

Jobsite Tours and Industry Panels

The program will also include a day dedicated to tours of active construction jobsites, giving educators an opportunity to experience live construction environments and connect their classroom learning to active projects.

As in previous years, the program will conclude with panel discussions featuring both field and office professionals, further highlighting the wide range of career pathways available within the construction industry. The program will culminate with a certificate of completion ceremony recognizing the participating educators.

BG808 2026 PHOTOS

Day 1

August 28, 2026
Honolulu Community College