‘Providing opportunities’: How keiki construction zone inspires the next generation of builders
An interactive event designed for keiki who love big trucks and digging in the dirt is returning next weekend to give families an up-close look at heavy machinery.
The Third Annual Keiki Construction Zone
The third annual Keiki Construction Zone will bring the construction and agriculture industries together for an immersive, hands-on community experience on November 8 at Whitmore Fairgrounds.
Joining Forces for a Community Experience
Kaimanalani Sasaki of BZ Services, David Kahikina of Papé Machinery, and Max Behrens of Max Gainz shared how they are inspiring the next generation to get involved in the construction industry on Hawaii News Now Sunrise.
Organizers note that the event:
- Serves as a collaboration between construction and agriculture.
- Offers children and adults practical experience operating working heavy equipment alongside professionals.
A Free Equipment Event for All Ages
Sasaki explained the event’s beginnings:
“We basically started out as a free equipment event where we incorporated other local businesses and vendors, and we just provided a space and an opportunity for kids to come out and operate the equipment hands-on, not just be able to look at it, but actually be able to get in, operate, and learn.”
Supporting Local Community and Vocations
The initiative began in 2023 with the launch of Dirt Works in Panaewa on Hawaii Island by Behrens. Sasaki, who started BZ Services four years ago in the construction trade, emphasized the event’s alignment with a mission to:
- Give back to the local community.
- Support homegrown organizations.
Sponsored by Papé Machinery, this year’s event will feature:
- Local companies.
- Farmers.
- Vendors.
All coming together to share trade knowledge and spark interest in vocational careers.
“This event is targeted at the children and the next generation to bring them up to show them the opportunities out there in the blue-collar society, give them an idea for something that we never had growing up,” said Kahikina.