Christopher Iwamura
CEO
Rainbow Drive-Inn
Christopher Iwamura is a Mentor Hawaii Cohort 10 mentor. Learn more about the program here.
About Christopher
Christopher Iwamura is the 3rd generation owner and CEO of Rainbow Drive-In. He holds his Master of Science in Computer Engineering from Santa Clara University. Working in the Bay Area for over a decade, he gained experience working for various startups. In 2015, Chris moved back home to begin working for the family business. Starting from the bottom, he learned all the roles from cooking in the kitchen to cashiering. During this time, he also received his MBA from Shidler College of Business at the University of Hawaii. Chris took over as CEO in 2019 and began his journey leading Rainbow Drive-In into the future.
Question and Answer with Christopher
What is your preferred communication style when mentoring (in-person, video conference, phone, informal check-ins, structured meetings, etc.)?
In-Person Meeting, Meal, Informal Check-In
Why do you want to become a mentor in this program?
To help somebody with their career using the experiences I have been through. Also, to better help myself grow and learn as a mentor.
What specific skills, knowledge or experience can you share with your mentee?
My greatest experience has come from being in the tech industry to being thrown into a position at Rainbow Drive-In. Transferring my skills from one field into something completely different. Also, I have been learning and creating my role through the years without much guidance.
What are your expectations for a mentor-mentee relationship?
Open and often communication would be ideal. I think feedback in both directions is key in order to get the most out of the program.
How do you approach problem-solving and conflict resolution?
My approach to problem-solving is based primarily on logic. I think my engineering side has built that into me.
How do you envision success for your mentee, and how will you measure it during the program?
I think that setting a goal early and checking in towards that goal would be the best form of any measurement.