BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – When it comes to metal bands, Metallica might be one of the most well-known. They’ve topped the charts with songs like “Enter Sandman” and “Sad but True.”
But, there is another kind of heavy metal they’re involved in, and this one is making a difference in the lives of students at Bismarck State College.
The Metallica Scholars Initiative helps students pursue technical education programs at community colleges.
Legacy High School welding student Julian Browning wants to be a welder after high school.
“It is a lot of fun. It is calming. Holding it in your hand, watching the metal burn. It is enjoyable,” said Browning.
He said he might go to BSC’s welding program.
BSC welding students across campus have some extra unique scholarship opportunities.
The Metallica Scholars Initiative has given scholarships to 36 students in BSC’s welding and mechanical maintenance programs.
“It feels really good because you know you will have a job right out of college. You will be able to succeed right away and always have a job,” said Carter Schafer, a student in the welding program.
He said the financial help is a huge blessing.
“For me, when I was younger, I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I knew I was good with my hands. If I would have had direction like that knowing right away that I could get a scholarship like this right away for trades is awesome,” said Travis Bergan, assistant professor of the welding program.
He said that getting more people involved is great because the trades are in demand.
“I went through this program 20 years ago. It was the best thing I’ve ever done. I worked out in the field. I came here and came back. I want to teach the students what I learned,” said Bergan.
He said both welding and mechanical maintenance jobs are still growing.
The scholarships are part of Metallica’s foundation, “All Within My Hands,” and the American Association of Community Colleges.
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