The Lowe’s Foundation has joined forces with Metallica’s All Within My Hands Foundation through the Metallica Scholars Initiative.
This nationwide program, aimed at boosting skilled trades training for community college students, has received a significant boost with a $500,000 donation from the Lowe’s Foundation.
Impacting Community Colleges Nationwide
The $500,000 grant from the Lowe’s Foundation will benefit, which is receiving $100,000. This funding will support critical training, equipment, recruiting, and wraparound services, ensuring students have the resources they need to succeed in skilled trades.
“We are extremely pleased to be a part of the Metallica Scholars Initiative and are excited about how many more students we can help with the addition of the Lowe’s Foundation funding,” said San Juan College President Dr. Toni Hopper Pendergrass.
Addressing the Skilled Trades Gap
According to the Associated General Contractors of America, nearly 90 percent of contractors report difficulty finding skilled workers. The Associated Builders and Contractors estimate that half a million new skilled tradespeople will be needed to meet demand in 2024 alone.
Student Success Stories: Latrell Begay
Latrell Begay, an automotive student at SJC, is a shining example of the program’s impact. After a high school football injury derailed his military ambitions, Latrell found a new direction through San Juan College’s Automotive program, thanks to the encouragement of his family and the support of Metallica’s All Within My Hands Scholarship.
"Along with the support from my mom, my instructors, and the staff at San Juan College, Metallica’s All Within My Hands Scholarship has made a significant difference for me at school and home," Latrell shared. The scholarship allowed him to purchase essential tools for his classes, enabling him to assist his family with car repairs and even help a friend in need by fixing their car.
Expanding Opportunities Through Partnership
Janice Dupré, Lowe’s executive vice president of human resources and chair of the Lowe’s Foundation, emphasized the importance of partnerships like the Metallica Scholars Initiative. "As we bring our shared goal to life and strengthen the skilled trades pipeline, we're excited to see students unlocking their full potential through these transformative careers," Dupré said.
Long-Term Commitment to Skilled Trades
This investment is part of the Lowe’s Foundation’s five-year, $50 million commitment to train 50,000 people for skilled trades careers. Since 2023, the Lowe’s Foundation has awarded approximately $25 million in Gable Grants to 35 community colleges and nonprofit organizations across the U.S., supporting innovative and scalable skilled trades training programs.
“Now entering its sixth year, the Metallica Scholars Initiative is an exceptional program focused on workforce education that has proven to be a galvanizing force across the community college ecosystem,” said Peter Delgrosso, executive director of All Within My Hands. “We are honored to partner with the Lowe’s Foundation to grow the trades while positively impacting many lives.”
San Juan College: A Beneficiary of Continued Support
As a proud recipient of the Metallica Scholars Initiative, San Juan College has received a total of $175,000 over three years. The additional $100,000 from the Lowe’s donation this year will further support students in traditional construction programs and automotive technology, with a focus on assisting low-income individuals. SJC offers a range of wraparound services, from tools and equipment to gas cards and books, to ensure student success.
For more information about San Juan College’s School of Trades and Technology.
