(NMC) – Northern Marianas College Business CE400 Cooperative Education students recently found that strengthening internal operations and workforce development is key to advancing sustainability and long-term growth for Crownway Green Energy through a collaborative research project with co-owner Chris Yang Zhu.
Cromnway Green Energy is a Saipan-based company that promotes green and renewable energy, offering a range of product designed to reduce energy consumption and “provide comfort to homes, schools, and businesses.” It was established in 2021.
The research titled “Scaling a Sustainable Business: Crownway Green Energy Support Project” addressed several critical issues affecting the company’s growth and sustainability and allowed the CE400 students to gain a thorough understanding of the company’s operations and challenges.
In their findings, students found that Crownway’s dependence on imported fuels exposes it to market volatility, while limited access to skilled personnel constrains its capacity for expansion. At the same time, internal structures, marketing approaches, and human resource practices remain in the early stages of development, creating barriers to sustained progress.
To address these challenges, students conducted research, in-depth interviews, and a systematic analysis of the company’s strengths and weaknesses in marketing, operations, human resources, organizational structure, and strategy. Their objective was to develop actionable recommendations to streamline internal processes, strengthen the company’s digital and community presence, improve staff recruitment and retention, and foster long-term competitiveness in Saipan’s renewable energy sector.
“This project gave students valuable insights into how sustainability extends beyond environmental goals. It’s also about creating resilient, well-managed, and forward-thinking businesses. Our students learned that supporting sustainability means strengthening the systems that allow businesses to thrive in a changing world,” said Dr. Barbara Hunter, School of Business Interim Director and CE400 Instructor.
Zhu expressed his appreciation for the students’ efforts.
“Working with the CE400 team has been a rewarding experience. Their research and recommendations provided fresh perspectives that will help Crownway Green Energy continue to grow and better serve the community’s energy needs,” he said.
The project concluded with their position, “By investing in marketing, workforce development, and regional expansion, Crownway can solidify its reputation as a trusted provider of renewable energy solutions while increasing market share. These efforts will not only enhance the company’s growth trajectory but also contribute to the broader objective of building a more sustainable and secure energy future for the CNMI.”
Businesses who would like to be part of the CE400 project, are asked to contact Dr. Barbara Hunter at barbara.hunter@marianas.edu or the NMC School of Business at (670) 237-6715.
