The Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) has appointed Maui native Wade Shimabukuro as the new Engineering Program Manager (EPM) for its Maui District Office, stepping into a role that involves oversight of repairs and maintenance for an expansive portfolio of over 600 buildings across Maui County. This includes public schools, state-owned libraries, and various other state facilities. Shimabukuro's plate is full as he is also tasked with managing parking enforcement for state lots and automotive services for state vehicles.
Keith Regan, DAGS Director and Comptroller, shared the weight of this responsibility, saying "Each District Office essentially functions like a mini-DAGS, with all of the obligations of our department. It was not easy to fill this position, and we’re thrilled to have someone as capable as Wade," according to information obtained by DAGS. Shimabukuro, a Baldwin High School graduate, is rejoining the office after a stint at Maui County’s Department of Public Works where he served as the Development Services Administrator. There, he played a key role in the recovery and rebuilding efforts following the devastating 2025 wildfires in Lahaina.
Shimabukuro is no newcomer to DAGS, having previously held the same position from 2013 to 2021, and during his tenure, he earned the recognition of DAGS Manager of the Year in 2016. "Although I am sad to leave the great people at the county, I’m excited and honored to return to a department I know and love,” Shimabukuro told DAGS. His dedication to the community is evident in his remarks, “I’ve spent most of my professional career working for DAGS, and I am passionate about the work we do and all we serve. I was born and raised on Maui and love knowing I can make a difference right here in my community."
With this new appointment, DAGS reaffirms its commitment to serving communities across the board, as Shimabukuro joins the ranks of other District Office managers, including Eric Agena on Kauaʻi, Vince Kasarskis in East Hawaiʻi, and Ramzi Mansour in West Hawaiʻi. As outlined on DAGS, these offices manage approximately 1,800 buildings that not only include DAGS-run facilities but also serve departments such as Agriculture, Education, Health, Library, Judiciary, and Human Services. "Tens of thousands of people depend on the services of all these various state departments — like schools, libraries and courts — and DAGS is the one responsible for making sure the infrastructure is running smoothly so that the staff can focus on doing their best job for the public," Regan added, illustrating the organization's vital behind-the-scenes role in maintaining public services.
