Columbia Gorge Community College announced it will enter into its fourth year with the Metallica Scholars Initiative. Launched in ten colleges in 2019 in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges, the heavy metal band Metallica started the program to promote and support trades-based education. Unlike a traditional scholarship that provides money toward tuition, Metallica Scholars are given a kit containing a set of high-quality tools that they will need to start practicing their chosen trade. This year, the Metallica Scholars Initiative will have a presence in 60 colleges across all 50 states and Guam. CGCC Vice-President of Instructional Services Jarrett Gilbert says to date, over 100 CGCC students in Construction Technology, Electro-Mechanical Technology, Advanced Manufacturing & Fabrication, and Aviation Maintenance Technology have been awarded $157,305 in tools, protective gear, and other equipment.