Chaminade University has announced an expanded collaboration with Constellation Network, a leading blockchain solutions provider, to scale its innovative “datapreneurship” internship program. The initiative aims to equip students with vital skills in data science and entrepreneurship, enabling them to excel in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
The partnership builds on two federally funded grant programs led by Chaminade University. These include the $10 million NSF-INCLUDES ALL-SPICE Alliance, which focuses on enhancing data science capabilities across the Pacific region, and the ’Inana Innovators Program, designed to support sustainability entrepreneurs. Constellation Network has been actively involved in both programs, offering guidance and technical expertise.
Scaling Up Internship Opportunities
The “datapreneurship” internship program was initially piloted in the summer of 2024. Following its success, Chaminade and Constellation Network plan to expand the initiative, welcoming a full cohort of five students in Spring 2025. Participants in the program will engage in hands-on experiences aimed at strengthening their expertise as data scientists while applying entrepreneurial principles. By leveraging Constellation Network’s blockchain technologies, students will work on solving real-world challenges and advancing innovative solutions.
The program highlights the importance of industry-academic collaborations in addressing critical workforce gaps, particularly in STEM disciplines. Chaminade University emphasized that partnerships with industry leaders allow students to gain exposure to transformational leadership and cutting-edge technologies. Such experiences enable participants to form valuable professional networks and enhance their career prospects in competitive industries.
Building Pathways in the Digital Economy
Chaminade University has also revealed plans to introduce a short-course certification program as part of its ongoing collaboration with Constellation Network. The initiative reflects a long-term effort to drive economic growth and diversification in Hawaii by focusing on the opportunities presented by the digital economy and Web3 technologies. University leaders believe the energy and momentum around emerging technologies offer a clear pathway to prosperity, providing students access to technical roles both locally and globally.
Through the integration of blockchain tools, the university intends to prepare students to thrive in a digital-first economy while equipping them with skills necessary to succeed in data-driven and entrepreneurial careers. Programs like the “datapreneurship” internship underscore the role of academic institutions in fostering the next generation of innovators.
A Collaborative Vision for Web3 Education
Constellation Network has expressed strong enthusiasm about its collaboration with Chaminade University and its role in advancing data sovereignty and incentive-driven technologies. The company underscored the significant advancements Web3 technologies have brought to communication and financial systems, pointing to their transformative potential in education and beyond.
In addition to working with Chaminade, Constellation Network is reportedly partnering with other universities to further support Web3 education initiatives. These efforts aim to broaden awareness and understanding of blockchain technologies, empowering students and institutions to contribute to the growing Web3 landscape.
The partnership between Chaminade University and Constellation Network signals a commitment to preparing students for the demands of a digital economy while addressing workforce shortages in technical fields. By scaling up the internship program and introducing new educational pathways, both organizations are working to position Hawaii as a hub for innovation and technological progress. This collaboration underscores the growing importance of aligning higher education with emerging technologies to meet the needs of an increasingly digital world.