Work Exchange Program (W.E.P.)
HCC 2025 Work Exchange Program (WEP) Application
Deadline to apply is June 13th, 2025 COB. Please allow at least two weeks for staff to process applications.
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 Friday June 13th COB. Please allow at least two weeks for staff to process applications. 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
- Beverage, lunch coupons (one day’s worth)
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 10-14 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:
| May 22nd | WEP application opens |
| June 13th | Deadline to submit WEP application |
| June 6th – June 20th | WEP participants notified by email if accepted into program |
| June 25th | MANDATORY, WEP Orientation via Zoom 9:00am – 12:00pm |
| June 25th | WEP shift schedule available for volunteers to sign-up (first-come, first-serve basis) |
| July 8th | MANDATORY, WEP Follow-Up Orientation via Zoom 9:00am – 10:30am |
| July 14th | WEP shift schedule sign-up ends |
| July 16th & July 17th | Preparatory Work Day at the Hawaiʻi Conservation Alliance & Foundation Office for WEP participants signed up for shifts on this specific day |
| July 21st | Preparatory Work Day at the Hawaiʻi Convention Center for WEP participants signed up for shifts on this specific day |
| July 22nd – July 24th | Hawaiʻi Conservation Conference |
2025 Hawaiʻi Conservation Conference Sponsors
