Metallica Scholars Initiative Continues to Empower Students at Elizabethtown Community and Technical College
Elizabethtown Community and Technical College (ECTC) is proud to announce its continued participation in Metallica’s foundation, All Within My Hands (AWMH), and the American Association of Community Colleges’ (AACC) Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI). The initiative, now in its fifth year, continues to invest in critical workforce programs at community colleges nationwide, and ECTC is among the privileged schools to receive Metallica Scholars funding for enhancing career and technical education programs.
Led by the renowned band Metallica, All Within My Hands believes in the power of workforce development and education. Lars Ulrich, the drummer for Metallica, expressed the significance of the Metallica Scholars Initiative, stating, “We are helping people fill these essential jobs which require skills and training. We are so proud and grateful that we can facilitate this program.”
Since its inception in 2019, MSI has expanded significantly, now supporting 42 community colleges across 33 states, benefiting over 6,000 students pursuing careers in the trades. Metallica and AWMH have collectively invested over $6 million in the American workforce, making a positive impact on individuals and the nation’s economy.
During ECTC’s participation in MSI, the organization has funded scholarships for advanced manufacturing and commercial driver’s license students. It has also contributed to the development of the Ride the Lightning mobile technical training unit and the Wherever I May Roam Truck Driving Academy. Additionally, tuition assistance was provided to military students in the Advanced Manufacturing Army Career Skills Program.
This year, MSI funds will continue to support students in advanced manufacturing programs, offering $5,000 in scholarships. ECTC is set to announce further details about these scholarships in the coming weeks. Dr. Juston Pate, President of ECTC, emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “The Metallica Scholars Initiative is a unique and powerful way to connect ECTC students with high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing.”
Peter Delgrosso, AWMH Executive Director, lauded the cooperation between participating community colleges, allowing Metallica Scholars to leave the program well-trained and confident, ultimately filling in-demand technical positions in the workforce.
Walter G. Bumphus, AACC’s president, emphasized the significance of investing in community college education to support vital career and technical education work. He expressed gratitude for partners like Metallica and All Within My Hands Foundation, recognizing their ongoing support for community colleges and the transformative power of education.
As Elizabethtown Community and Technical College continues to benefit from the Metallica Scholars Initiative, the college looks forward to empowering students with the necessary skills and training to pursue meaningful and well-paying careers. The program’s success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Metallica, All Within My Hands, AACC, and community colleges nationwide, creating opportunities for students and supporting the growth of local communities.