The University of Hawaii Leeward Community College's Wahiawa Value-Added Product Development Center has hired its first product development manager: Hailey Zhou. The center announced Zhou's appointment in its August newsletter, and she will start in the new role on Aug. 19.
The 33,000-square-foot food production facility for entrepreneurs and students held its grand opening in mid-April and features multiple kitchens and equipment for processing and packaging food.
Wahiawa Value-Added Product Development Center
Zhou is food scientist and nutritionist with a background in product development, innovation and commercialization. In her new role, Zhou will drive product development, offer technical support and educational programs, and create food products using surplus produce.
"Joining the Wahiawa Value-Added Product Development Center is a deeply meaningful opportunity that allows me to combine my passion for food science with my commitment to community impact," Zhou told Pacific Business News in a written statement. "I’m excited to help shape products that not only reflect the rich traditions of Hawaii but also support local farmers and entrepreneurs. This project is about more than just creating products — it's about nurturing local talent, celebrating Hawaii's unique agricultural resources and fostering a vibrant, sustainable food economy. I can’t wait to hit the ground running with such an all-star team."
Zhou has a bachelor's of science degree in nutritional sciences from the University of California, Berkeley. She previously helped launch products such as Pan's Mushroom Jerky and Nona Lim.
For more information about the Wahiawa Value-Added Product Development Center, go here.
