Central Maine Community College in Auburn was selected to receive a $50,000 grant from the Metallica Scholars Initiative.

Yes, that Metallica.

The grant will update the equipment in the HVAC, Plumbing & Heating Technology, Facilities Maintenance and Electrical Technology programs and provide more hands-on training. 

“By strengthening these programs, we are not only enhancing the educational experience for our students but also helping Maine employers meet the growing demand for skilled technicians in high-demand trades,” Andrew Morong, the dean of enrollment management at CMMC, said in a statement. 

The Metallica Scholars Initiative is part of All Within My Hands, a nonprofit philanthropic organization started by members and management of the rock band. The core focus of the scholar initiative is to support conventional trades and other fields like nursing that will generate future jobs, a news release from the organization said.

The Metallica Scholars Initiative awarded $3.3 million to 18 schools, including CMCC, it said.

Metallica Scholars Initiative has rewarded 93 schools nationwide in its eight years as a program. Central Maine Community College is one of two schools in Maine to receive a grant from the initiative. Eastern Maine Community College in Bangor received $75,000 in 2024.

Morong said the investment will have a direct and lasting impact on CMCC students.

“We are honored to be selected as a Metallica Scholars college and grateful to All Within My Hands and the American Association of Community Colleges for investing in our students and the future of Maine’s workforce,” he said.

Central Maine Community College’s enrollment has grown 85% since 2021. This spring marked the college’s largest graduating class with 725 students.

Renee Richardson, director of philanthrophy at All Within My Hands, said they don’t typically provide funding for equipment, but CMCC made a strong case.

The HVAC and plumbing programs at CMCC are helping train the skilled workers that are needed, she said.

“We are excited to help CMCC purchase the equipment and redesign the lab to serve the growing number of students developing industry-aligned skills and increasing their employability,” she said.