(SWEETWATER, Texas) – “I’m speechless.”
That was the reaction of Madison Gomez, a Welding Technology student at Texas State Technical College, when she learned of receiving her scholarship through the Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI).
“Being from a small town (Rotan in Fisher County), it is an honor,” she said. “And being a woman in this industry, it means a lot that Metallica wants to help me.”
Gomez said she is a fan of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band and hopes to make them proud with what she is able to accomplish.
“I think it is awesome that they want to give scholarships to students who want to work in the trades,” she said. “I know it is a one-time opportunity, but I am proud to be part of the Metallica Scholars community.”
Launched in 2019 by All Within My Hands, in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges, MSI began its scholarship program with 10 colleges and primarily manufacturing programs. MSI offers diverse workforce opportunities for students interested in gaining the skills and training necessary to find meaningful and well-paying careers. Now in its sixth year, MSI has a presence in 60 colleges across all 50 states and in the territory of Guam.
While Gomez is excited to be a Metallica Scholar, her instructor, Frank Molini, is impressed by her work ethic in class.
“Madison is dedicated to what she does,” Molini said. “Before she leaves for the day, she makes sure her area is clean. That is the sign of someone who cares.”
Molini said Gomez also answered one of his class challenges.
“I want the students to replace our showpieces on projects,” he said. “Madison had one assignment completed to near perfection, and I told her to put it on the show table.”
Gomez said she approaches each day the same.
“I am going to focus on my work,” she said.
After she completes her certificate of completion, Gomez said she may return to TSTC to earn a second certificate in Welding Advanced Pipe Specialization.
“I have been thinking about that certification because I might want to work on pipe welding,” she said. “I have learned a lot so far and hope to continue that after I graduate.”
According to onetonline.org, welders can earn a yearly median salary of more than $48,000 in Texas. Welding jobs were expected to increase 23% between 2020 and 2030 in the state, according to the website.
Registration for TSTC’s summer and fall semesters is underway. For more information, go to tstc.edu.
