HCC showing the way to secure future jobs

Honolulu Community College's Information Technology program is turning out a high rate of students. The school should be congratulated.

In March, HCC signed an agreement with a high-tech firm that is helping provide funds and instruction in the information technologies. Unfortunately, many of these students are moving to the Mainland after graduation. This so-called "brain drain" has been a long-time problem for the state.

Since Hawai`i lacks the industries that would employ these graduates, the state and students are caught in a "catch 22."

With the lack of jobs for these graduates, students will continue to leave. Without these students, Hawai`i will not be able to lure high-tech companies to the state.

These programs are an important first step in bringing high-tech industry to Hawai`i.

The state must continue to work with these companies and to offer education programs that will educate people and provide the work force for these industries.