New Biosecurity Academy aims to boost inspector ranks

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The state said it’s looking for new biosecurity inspectors to help in the never-ending fight against invasive species across Hawaii.

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The Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity (DAB) announced Thursday it is partnering with Leeward Community College’s (Leeward CC) Office of Workforce Development to accept the first students into the Biosecurity Academy.

Up to 20 recruits will be selected for the five-month program that starts in November.

Sharon Hurd, DAB chair, said the new academy will provide a flexible path for graduates looking for a position as a biosecurity inspector.

“This innovative program will allow the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity to address the needs of the community by bringing in more inspectors to check cargo at airports and harbors and provide fast response to any pressing needs on the invasive species front across the state,” Hurd said.

The department said graduates will eventually work for DAB’s Plant Quarantine Branch (PQB). The branch was established in 1888 under King David Kalakaua to prevent pests from damaging island-grown coffee. PQB currently screens incoming passengers and cargo at airports and harbors for pests and microorganisms in fruits, vegetables and seafood headed to stores and restaurants.

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State Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz called the Biosecurity Academy a great example of workforce development in action.

“By creating a direct pathway into meaningful careers, this program helps prepare the next generation of biosecurity professionals right here at home, while strengthening Hawaii’s ability to protect our agriculture and natural resources, bolster our biosecurity infrastructure and diversify our economy,” Dela Cruz said.

Applications open Saturday, Oct. 3, and those interested can sign up online once recruitment officially opens at 12:01 a.m.

Officials said applicants must have a four-year college degree. The Leeward CC Biosecurity Academy will provide training for the incoming state inspectors.

“Partnering with the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity allows us to leverage our expertise in workforce development to build a highly trained pipeline of biosecurity inspectors,” said Carlos Penaloza, chancellor of Leeward CC and interim chancellor of the University of Hawaii at West Oahu. “This academy isn’t just about filling critical job vacancies; it’s about providing meaningful career pathways for our local talent while actively safeguarding our agriculture, natural resources and local economy for generations to come.”

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