Honeywell explores artificial intelligence talent in Fiji

Honeywell, in partnership with Data Consultancy Services (DCS), is exploring Fiji’s growing pool of artificial intelligence (AI) talent through a hackathon for university students.

Paul Johnson, IT business partner at DCS and part of Honeywell’s Arrow IT leadership team, said the company was impressed with the skills of local students.

“We are here to conduct a hackathon, explore AI use cases, and understand the talent Fiji has in AI development,” Mr Johnson said.

He said Honeywell, a global aerospace company, is expanding its use of AI and data science to improve manufacturing, streamline business processes, and create value for customers.

“We have a lot of data, but not yet all the talent or technology to fully use it,” he said.

Fiji was chosen because universities such as the University of the South Pacific (USP) focus strongly on AI in their curriculum.

“We want to see the talent here and explore partnerships that allow students to develop real-world AI solutions,” Mr Johnson added.

Honeywell director of AI Shawn McKay, during the AI hackathon at the University of the South Pacific on December 16, 2025.

Photo: Ronald Kumar

Honeywell’s director of AI, Shawn McKay said the hackathon gave students practical experience while offering new ideas to the company.

“Students come up with ideas we haven’t thought of and turn them into code. It’s enlightening for us and gives them hands-on AI experience,” he said.

Recently graduated electrical engineering student Trishaal Datt said the hackathon allowed her to apply engineering and AI concepts learned at university.

“AI is key in areas such as robotics, medical devices, and aerospace. It helps us analyse sensor data and predict patterns like when components need maintenance,” Mr Datt said.

McKay encouraged students from all disciplines to embrace AI.

“My background is in mechanical engineering, not IT or AI. But that foundation helped me solve critical AI problems like predictive maintenance,” he said.

Mr Johnson said Honeywell appreciated the warm welcome in Fiji.

“We’re excited to be here and impressed by the talent we’ve worked alongside,” he said.