Honolulu Community College is the first in Hawaiʻi selected to the Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI), which was launched by the rock band Metallica through its All Within My Hands Foundation. The initiative is designed to support and elevate career and technical education across the nation.
Honolulu CC will be able to use a $75,000 grant for program support and scholarships for select students in the Aeronautics Maintenance Technology, Electrical Installation & Maintenance Technology, and Music & Entertainment Learning Experience programs.
“This prestigious recognition affirms our commitment to providing top-tier career and technical education to our students,” said Honolulu CC Chancellor Karen C. Lee. “With the generous support from Metallica’s All Within My Hands Foundation, we can further ensure that our students are supported and well-prepared for the workforce and future opportunities.”
Breaking stigmas, supporting families
Launched in 2019 by All Within My Hands in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges, MSI began with 10 colleges and primarily manufacturing programs. MSI offers diverse workforce opportunities for students interested in gaining the skills and training necessary to find meaningful and well-paying careers. To date, the foundation has invested more than $10.5 million in the American workforce, reaffirming a commitment to career and technical education at the local level.
“When we launched the Metallica Scholars Initiative, it really spoke to me. A collective goal of breaking the stigma of trade skills,” said James “Papa Het” Hetfield, Metallica’s lead vocalist and guitarist. “Trade skills are vital to society, and what’s even more important is to support the many folks who are trying to create a career by learning and using these skills.”
Metallica Scholars are often considered non-traditional students, as many have families they support or are the first in their families to pursue a college education.
By the end of year six, MSI estimates that it will have helped more than 8,000 students with a wide range of backgrounds and ages gain skills to assist in finding meaningful jobs and careers.
