GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — More students at Grand Rapids Community College will be able to learn skills needed to rock out in their career, thanks to another big investment by a heavy metal band.
Metallica Scholars, along with Rockford-based Wolverine, is providing a $100,000 grant to GRCC to expand it's workforce training options. The money is part of a collaborative effort between the band's All Within My Hands Foundation and the American Association of Community Colleges.
This isn't the first time Metallica has partnered with GRCC. In 2018 it was 1 of 10 colleges to receive money in an initial round of grants. GRCC used the funds to start an intensive welding program that takes less time to complete and features smaller class sizes.
As part of the new support, Wolverine is providing all students in the program with boots and clothing to help them get started in their new careers.
“Wolverine is committed to supporting the next generation of the American workforce, and for the past six years we have focused on closing the skills gap through our Project Bootstrap initiative,” said Tom Kennedy, Wolverine’s global brand president. “We believe the best way to do that is to start with education. By supporting schools like Grand Rapids Community College and ensuring programs have all the resources they need, we can support students who are choosing to join the skilled trades and together be one step closer to closing the gap.”
Currently 15 students are taking part in the 2nd year of the program. How GRCC plans to use the new funds has not been announced.
“We strive to work closely with our local employers as part of our mission to being relevant and responsive to West Michigan," said GRCC President Bill Pink. "We deeply appreciate this support and commitment to our students. Together, we provide people with skills and opportunities to change lives.”
