Work Exchange Program (W.E.P.)

HCC 2026 Work Exchange Program (WEP) Application

Please submit your application ASAP. Deadline to apply is June 26th, 2026 COB.

The Hawaiʻi Conservation Conference’s success stems from the work of willing and dedicated individuals who contribute to this program. The assistance of the Work Exchange Program (WEP) participants make it possible to have the various engaging exhibits, events, and speakers of the conference.

The Conference’s Work Exchange Program allows participants to meet, interact with, and learn from conservation veterans, emerging leaders, resource managers, field staff, and others in the conservation community. The research, knowledge, and experiences they share provide an invaluable opportunity to anyone interested in starting or furthering a career in conservation.

There are limited WEP positions available. Deadline to apply is June 26th COB. Acceptance will be based on the applicant’s eligibility, qualifications, and availability to participate in the mandatory program commitments/service.

Program Benefits:

  • Full access to Conference sessions (outside of work schedule)
  • Exclusive Conference swag item
  • Food/Beverage allowance to cover at least one lunch meal

Program Requirements:

Applicants must:

  • Not be registered for Conference already
  • Demonstrate that they cannot afford Conference registration or do not qualify for the different special discount rates/scholarships
  • Must be reliable, have good interpersonal skills, and the ability to work independently and in a group setting
  • For certain positions, participants must have a smart phone able to scan QR codes and fill out brief online forms

Program Commitment/Service:

Applicants must agree to:

  • Commit to and complete a minimum of 12-16 service hours at Conference; if scheduled hours are not completed with no prior notice provided to WEP Coordinator, WEP participant will be billed for the full Conference price.
  • Attend mandatory orientation(s)
  • Sign-in and out of shifts at the WEP Check-In Desk (this is the participant’s responsibility in order to receive credit)

Work Exchange Program Assignments:

  • Registration and Check-In Team
  • Welcome Team
  • Session Supervision Team
  • Information Technology Team
  • Logistics Team

Program Timeline:

June 4th WEP application opens
June 26th Deadline to submit WEP application
June 11th – June 29th WEP participants notified by email if accepted into program
June 30th MANDATORY, WEP Orientation via Zoom 9:30am – 12:30pm
June 30th WEP shift schedule available for volunteers to sign-up (first-come, first-serve basis)
July 8th MANDATORY, WEP Follow-Up Orientation via Zoom 1:00pm – 2:30pm
July 10th WEP shift schedule sign-up ends
July 9th & July 10th Preparatory Work Day at the Hawaiʻi Conservation Alliance & Foundation Office for WEP participants signed up for shifts on this specific day
July 13th Preparatory Work Day at the Hawaiʻi Convention Center for WEP participants signed up for shifts on this specific day
July 14th – July 16th Hawaiʻi Conservation Conference
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