Metallica Scholars Initiative Workforce Education Program Now in All 50 States
September 7, 2024Year 6 is the largest grant to date with $2.6M committed, totaling more than $10M invested since inception.
San Rafael, Calif. All Within My Hands (AWMH), the non-profit, philanthropic organization created by the members and management of Metallica, is incredibly proud to announce the largest expansion of its Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI) and its largest grant to date. With the launch of year six, 18 new colleges join the roster of existing MSI community colleges, with each new college receiving $75,000 to enhance the student experience within career and technical education programs. The Metallica Scholars Initiative now has a presence in 60 colleges across all 50 United States and the territory of Guam.
"When we launched the Metallica Scholars Initiative, it really spoke to me. A collective goal of breaking the stigma of trade skills. 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. I am so proud - we all are - to see how this program is changing lives by providing much-needed resources to empower students, and it's great that we're able to make our biggest grant yet to support these students and the future workforce. We are reaching even further for year six of the Metallica Scholars Initiative. This year, our program will be in 60 schools in all 50 states! All thanks to your support."
-James 'Papa Het' Hetfield
Launched in 2019 by All Within My Hands in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), MSI began with 10 colleges and primarily manufacturing programs. With steady development by creative and dedicated leadership, MSI offers diverse workforce opportunities for students interested in gaining the skills and training necessary to find meaningful and well-paying careers. Additional curricula will include construction, healthcare, and engineering, contributing to more than 25 fields of study offered within the Initiative. To date, AWMH has invested over $10.5M in the American workforce, reaffirming a commitment to career and technical education at the local level.
"I am happy to congratulate the newest Metallica Scholarship Initiative colleges. The sustained investment in workforce education by the All Within My Hands Foundation has benefitted thousands of community college students," said Walter G. Bumphus, president and CEO of AACC. "This work helps to advance skills education and the nation's workforce pipeline. We are honored to continue this partnership to provide critical resources that eliminate barriers for students to participate in skills education programs that lead to family-sustaining wage careers."
By the end of year six, we estimate that we 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. 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. AWMH and AACC aim to connect students to skill-building opportunities and bridge the talent needs of the American workforce, all while utilizing the community college system, which is the most affordable, flexible, and industry-relevant applied-learning training provider in the country.
"Metallica, through their foundation, is changing how people view and engage with the trades in this country, and it is working," stated Peter Delgrosso, Executive Director of All Within My Hands. "Metallica Scholars are diverse, motivated, and ambitious, and we are here to help them reach their goals. I am so proud and honored to be able to announce entrance into all 50 states as this is a significant milestone for not only our foundation but the incredible community we have helped foster and connect."
We would like to thank our long-time sponsors and partners Carhartt and Wolverine our advisory board members, and to the Metallica Family who have supported AWMH and helped to continue growing this Initiative.
Newly Added Metallica Scholar Colleges:
- Arkansas Northeastern College - Blytheville, Ark.
- Bismarck State College - Bismarck, N.D.
- College of Southern Nevada - Las Vegas, Nev.
- College of Western Idaho - Nampa, Ind.
- Community College of Allegheny County - Pittsburgh, Pa.
- Community College of Rhode Island - Montpelier, Vt.
- Community College of Vermont - Warwick, R.I.
- Community College System of New Hampshire - Concord, N.H.
- CT State Asnuntuck - Enfield, Conn.
- Delaware Technical Community College - Dover, Del.
- Eastern Maine Community College - Bangor, Maine
- Flathead Valley Community College - Kalispell, Mont.
- Guam Community College - Barrigada, Guam
- Honolulu Community College - Honolulu, Hawaii
- Ivy Tech Fort Wayne/Warsaw Campus - Fort Wayne, Ind.
- Tulsa Community College - Tulsa, Okla.
- University of Alaska-Anchorage - Anchorage, Alaska
- *West Georgia Technical College - Waco, Ga.
*Pending AACC Membership
Visit the AWMH website for a complete list of all 60 colleges currently supported by this program.
Read moreCentral Piedmont Community College Offers More Affordable IT Training, Strengthening Local Economy
August 22, 2024Central Piedmont Community College is excited to announce that its Continuing Education Information Technology (IT) program is now more affordable than ever. This makes it easier for individuals to gain the skills needed to thrive in the rapidly growing field of computer and information technology. This initiative underscores Central Piedmont's commitment to providing accessible education that directly contributes to the economic vitality of the Charlotte area.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in computer and information technology occupations will grow much faster than the average for all occupations between 2022 and 2032, with approximately 377,500 job openings each year due to growth and the need to replace workers who leave these occupations permanently. The median annual wage for these roles was $104,420 in May 2023, significantly higher than for all occupations, which stood at $48,060. Central Piedmont's affordable IT courses are designed to help local residents access these high-paying opportunities, thereby boosting the local economy.
Key Highlights of Central Piedmont's IT Training Program:
- Affordable Pricing: Central Piedmont's commitment to education for all is reflected in its reduced pricing, ensuring that individuals from all economic backgrounds can gain valuable IT skills.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program offers a wide range of IT courses, covering everything from basic computer skills to advanced networking and cybersecurity, accommodating beginners and experienced professionals.
- Expert Instructors: Classes are led by industry professionals who bring real-world experience to the classroom, preparing students with the knowledge and skills needed by today's employers.
- Flexible Learning Options: The program offers a hybrid model of in-person classes, live online instruction, and self-paced training, making it convenient for students to fit learning into their busy lives.
Central Piedmont makes IT education more affordable, empowering individuals with the skills needed to enter or advance in a lucrative and rapidly growing industry. It also provides local businesses with a pool of skilled professionals ready to drive innovation and productivity. This effort is crucial to fostering sustainable economic growth and ensuring that Charlotte remains competitive in the digital age.
For more information on the Continuing Education Information Technology program, visit the Central Piedmont website or contact the Information Technology Continuing Education department at 704-330-4223.
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Campus Wellness Center Opens on Central Campus
August 14, 2024U.S. Congresswoman Alma Adams joined a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Aug. 13 to open a new Campus Wellness Center on Central Piedmont Community College's Central Campus.
The new Campus Wellness Center offers Central Piedmont students and employees a range of mental health services such as therapy dogs, yoga, counseling, and other resources designed to help individuals navigate the complexities of academic and personal life. The center's staff will provide a confidential and empathetic space where students and employees can discuss their concerns, manage stress, and develop strategies for maintaining a strong and resilient mind.
Congresswoman Adams, who represents the NC 12th district and part of Mecklenburg County, helped the college secure a $575,000 congressionally directed award through the Health Resources and Services Administration to renovate and upfit space for the mental wellness center. Adams, Central Piedmont President Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, and others cut the ceremonial ribbon during a midday celebration and toured the new facility located at 1425 Elizabeth Ave., in Charlotte.
"Central Piedmont believes a strong community begins with fostering the well-being of every individual," Deitemeyer said. "We recognize that a thriving community is built upon the foundation of both a strong mind and healthy body. We understand the challenges of academic life, combined with the demands of daily living, can impact individuals in profound ways. We envision the Campus Wellness Center as a central hub for our students and employees to access the resources needed to support their success academically, in the workplace, and in the community."
Adams commended the college for prioritizing the mental well-being of its students, faculty, and staff.
"A person's mental health is critically important to their ability to learn, work, and function successfully," Adams said. "I am happy to see Central Piedmont pursue resources to care for its community."
Central Piedmont will announce operating hours for the Campus Wellness Center soon.
Read moreCentral Piedmont Community College Foundation's FY24 Donor Impact Report
August 9, 2024Central Piedmont Community College Foundation is pleased to share our FY24 Donor Impact Report with you. It offers a snapshot of how your contributions are helping our students, supporting our faculty, and advancing programs and training.
Thank you for supporting our mission.
Read moreCentral Piedmont's President's Report: July 2024
August 5, 2024The July President's Report highlights our recent accomplishments and impactful initiatives made possible through your unwavering support. Play the video to find out what else is included in the July President's Report.
Read moreLowe’s Foundation Announces $1 Million Grant to Central Piedmont’s Skilled Trades Program
July 23, 2024Central Piedmont Community College received a $1 million Gable Grant from the Lowe's Foundation to grow its skilled trades certifications, expand the college's reach in Mecklenburg County, and undertake renovations on the Harper Campus.
Central Piedmont is one of just 11 community colleges in the nation to receive a grant this year, which will increase the number of educational opportunities for students seeking construction-related certifications.
Infrastructure support also includes renovating lab space and bringing mobile learning cottages to other campuses and into the community. The mobile learning cottages will remove transportation barriers and bring new training opportunities in construction, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing training throughout Charlotte.
The Lowe's Foundation has made a $50 million commitment over the next five years to prepare 50,000 people for skilled trades careers through grants to community and technical colleges and community-based nonprofits. The new strategic focus addresses one of the most critical worker shortages currently facing the U.S. economy.
"Construction and the skilled trades have been part of Central Piedmont's program offerings since the college opened its doors almost 61 years ago. Our students learn quickly that these are versatile, high-demand careers with endless opportunities for growth and advancement," said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, Central Piedmont president. "We are so appreciative of this generous grant from the Lowe's Foundation. Central Piedmont places a high priority on producing skilled trades professionals who can hit the ground running. We thank the Lowe's Foundation for partnering with us to help meet a critical need in the Charlotte region."
Central Piedmont offers students the opportunity to learn and train for a number of construction and skilled trade careers, including:
- Air conditioning, heating and refrigeration
- Construction and construction management
- Electrical systems
- Non-destructive examination
- Sustainability technologies
- Utilities and clean energy, and
- Welding
Students in construction and the skilled trades at Central Piedmont can pursue a degree, diploma or certificate and some of the shorter-term, accelerated-career-training programs are offered at no cost to the student.
Read moreHUB Program Reconnects Alumna to Central Piedmont
July 19, 2024Central Piedmont recently hosted its first "Chat, Sip, and Chew" event to bring Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) to campus that specialize in culinary and food services to meet with faculty and staff.
Twenty-four vendors shared their backgrounds and showcased how Central Piedmont could partner with their businesses.
One of those vendors, Jorieka Downey, graduated from the college in 2014 and overcame many hurdles to grow her business, G.R.I.T.S. CLT, into one of the top food trucks and caterers in Charlotte.
Growing up in a family full of chefs, the culinary program at Central Piedmont drew Downey in, and the single mom of three embraced the challenge.
"I was working two jobs and going to school full-time," she said. "I would go to work third shift at a group home, staying up most of the night, and trying to do homework when the residents were asleep. I would then catch a little nap, drive to Central Piedmont, and go to classes for eight hours. Then I'd go home to try to spend some time with my kids before starting it all over again. It was a battle during those couple of years to be a mom."
After she graduated, Downey set out on a five-year plan to own and operate her own food truck. She started her career working for Compass Group in a variety of roles, including lead entrée chef, and during her time there became connected with a woman who would eventually become a business partner.
That partnership helped pave the way for Downey to start her own business, which began as a caterer. She built her popularity at events such as the 2019 NBA All Star Game in Charlotte and the CIAA Basketball Tournament.
"Word just traveled," Downey said. "Our social media presence started to grow. We went viral with a stuffed turkey leg, and I know for certain I was the first to bring that to Charlotte. We had over 30,000 views. We'd put mac and cheese, collard greens, or yams in it. We would deep fry it southern style. That really made us grow."
Soon, Downey was even catering for concerts with acts such as Busta Rhymes, 112, Marsha Ambrosius, and more as her popularity spread.
However, like many others in the food industry, COVID played an impact on the growth of her business. But Downey used the rest of her savings, along with loans and grants during that period, to achieve her dream of purchasing her own food truck, and success soon followed.
In 2022, Downey won the "Charlotte's Best Black-owned Food Truck" competition, sponsored by Duke's Mayo and judged by the likes of Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, Congresswoman Alma Adams, and others.
Though the food truck was recently damaged in a fire, Downey has continued to persevere, and encourages Central Piedmont's students to maintain that same attitude.
"Stay in it," she said. "If it's your goal or passion, you have to give it your all. Put your best foot in and never give up."
Read moreOne trustee reappointed, two newly appointed to Central Piedmont board
July 15, 2024Central Piedmont Community College's Board of Trustees recently had one member reappointed and two members appointed for the first time. Each will serve a four-year term through June 2028.
Jim Dunn, a seasoned executive and human resources professional, was reappointed to the Central Piedmont board by the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners. Dunn is the President and CEO of LD Human Capital Consulting and has spent more than 30 years developing expertise in strategic human resources, organizational development, and leadership. He has served as a Central Piedmont Trustee since 2020.
Carrie Baker received her appointment from the N.C. Senate. Baker is the Chief HR Officer for Resolution Life US. She serves as a member of the company's executive leadership team, which is responsible for setting the overall strategic direction for the company's U.S. market. A talented HR professional, she has more than 20 years of experience building and managing large-scale human resource strategies for major finance companies.
Arrington Mixon was appointed by the N.C. House of Representatives. After a successful and impactful career with Bank of America, Mixon has followed her desire to engage more deeply in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community as a senior member of one of the largest charitable foundations in North Carolina. Since 2017, she has served on the Board of Trustees of the North Carolina Capital Management Trust.
"I am delighted with the reappointment of Jim Dunn and the appointment of Carrie Baker and Arrington Mixon to Central Piedmont's Board of Trustees," said Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, Central Piedmont president. "Each of these individuals brings years of executive leadership experience in a variety of roles and a depth of wisdom that comes from serving on other boards and providing sound counsel. The college is in a period of enrollment growth and yet we have the capacity of serve more Mecklenburg County residents and employers. We look to our trustees to be the college's champions and to help share our story of service and transforming lives in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community."
At the board's July 10 meeting, Dunn was elected to serve as chair for a second consecutive year. Caldwell Rose, president of NAI Southern Real Estate in Charlotte, will serve a second year as vice chair.
Read moreFall 2023 and Spring 2024 ACA Scholarship Winners
July 10, 2024Congratulations to our fall 2023 and spring 2024 ACA Scholarship winners!
Each fall and spring semester, the college's Academic Related Courses (ACA) area selects seven recipients for the ACA Scholarship for awards of $600 each. To apply, students had to write an essay answering the question "Being resilient (the ability to recover quickly from difficult conditions) is a life skill that we often do not recognize. How have you been resilient in your journey as a community college student, and what does this journey look like?" Applicants are reviewed based on meeting the scholarship eligibility requirements and on their essay's quality of writing.
Learn more about the ACA Scholarship.
Scholarship Winners
Fall 2023
- Yaretzhy Melo-Garcia
- Lori Jenrette
- Jaclyn Muckey
- Sandra Tomas
- Nandipa Kuuya
- Maramawit Teketel
- Thuy Pham
Spring 2024
- Momoko Ozaki
- Elise Ramirez
- Samantha Stone
- David Kushnir
- Nicolas Golafshan
- Preshonna Stowe
- Aayush Niroula
Central Piedmont earns reaccreditation
July 8, 2024The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) has reaffirmed the accreditation of Central Piedmont Community College. This 10-year reaffirmation comes after off-site and on-site reviews of the college and its academic programs.
Central Piedmont's reaffirmation means the college overall and its academic programs remain fully accredited. Central Piedmont received official notice of its reaffirmed accreditation on July 1. Central Piedmont's next reaffirmation process will come in 2033-34.
SACSCOC is an institutional accreditor for quality assurance in higher education. SACSCOC accredits institutions that award associate, baccalaureate, master's, or doctoral degrees, including those offered via distance and correspondence education, and direct assessment within these institutions. It serves as the common denominator of shared values and practices among its members in the United States and international institutions of higher education approved by the SACSCOC Executive Council, Board of Trustees, and the Appeals Committee of the College Delegate Assembly.
Accreditation by SACSCOC signifies the institution 1) has a mission appropriate to higher education, 2) has resources, programs, and services sufficient to accomplish and sustain that mission, and(3) maintains clearly specified educational objectives that are consistent with its mission and appropriate to the degrees its offers, and that indicate whether it is successful in achieving its stated objectives.
To gain or maintain accreditation with SACSCOC, an institution must comply with the standards contained in the Principles of Accreditation: Foundations for Quality Enhancement and with the policies and procedures of the commission. SACSCOC applies the requirements of its principles to all applicant, candidate, and member institutions, regardless of type of institution (public, private for-profit, or private not-for-profit).
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