West Hawaii Region’s Education Center of Excellence supports the future of healthcare in our community through education, training and workforce development.
Created to help address healthcare workforce needs across Hawaiʻi Island, the center prepares students, employees and community healthcare professionals to grow their skills and deliver quality, compassionate care. Through programs in surgical technology, nurse residency, community training and other education initiatives, the Education Center of Excellence helps strengthen local healthcare from within.
Our Programs

Surgical Technology Program
The Surgical Technology Program prepares students for meaningful careers in the operating room through classroom instruction, hands-on training and clinical experience.
As the state’s only nationally accredited Surgical Technology Program, the program reflects West Hawaii Region’s commitment to excellence in surgical education, experienced instruction and strong community partnerships. Students gain the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to support surgical teams and provide exceptional patient care.

Nurse Residency Program
The Nurse Residency Program is a yearlong program designed to support new graduate nurses as they begin their careers.
Developed in collaboration with the Hawaiʻi State Center of Nursing, the program combines online learning, live skills training, project work and clinical experience. Participants build confidence, develop a strong support network and gain exposure to a variety of clinical departments as they prepare for diverse roles within the hospital.
Openings are typically announced each spring. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact the Education Department or Human Resources for more information.

Community Offerings
The Education Center of Excellence offers specialty courses and training opportunities that support high standards of care across our hospitals and the local healthcare community.
These courses help staff and community health care professionals strengthen skills, maintain certifications and continue learning. When space is available, select courses may be open to community health care members for a nominal fee.

