July 1, 2025
Aiden Solis, a Grand Rapids native, graduated high school and immediately entered the workforce, deciding college wasn’t for him. For several years, Solis did what he could to find meaningful work that would support him and his family. As those opportunities became fewer and farther between, he realized something needed to change.
“I went to the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan literally looking for a job. I was really broke and I needed some money. I needed help finding a job,” said Solis. “We filled out some applications on Indeed and then they asked if I’ve seen the workforce classes at Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC). I always thought college was a scam, so I had to stop and think about it for a second.”
After graduating high school, Solis believed college was only for those who had money set aside for tuition. He didn’t want to take on student debt or invest time into learning a skill that might not immediately lead to a job. He thought he needed an instant solution to support himself and his family.
“While I was applying for jobs I said why not, I want to learn a new skill if it means I might find a good job. I hadn’t been able to find anything sustainable with the path I was currently on,” said Solis. “So, I applied for the Metallica Scholars Welding Bootcamp and a couple of months later, the Hispanic Center called me and let me know the class was starting. Now I’m here, even though I was really nervous to start, and I’m about to earn my certificate.”
The Metallica Scholars Welding Bootcamp is offered through GRCC’s workforce training program. Over the course of three months, students meet weekly to earn their certificate in welding. The program also teaches critical job-seeking skills, such as resumé development, to help students become job-ready immediately after completing the course.
Solis began the bootcamp with no prior welding experience. Aside from watching a few TikTok videos, he was unfamiliar with the welding process and all it entailed. The Hispanic Center shared the program’s benefits: earning a certificate by the end of the program and gaining immediate hire ability in the welding industry. Solis knew it was his answer to the job search.
“This program has given me the confidence that I can do more than I thought I could,” said Solis.
When Solis heard the program was sponsored by All Within My Hands, a nonprofit founded by the heavy metal band, Metallica, he was thrilled.
“I know Metallica because I produce music too and I also play Fortnite. So I’ve heard their songs a lot,” said Solis. “Being a musician and knowing how much you pour of yourself into your art makes me even more excited that Metallica helped fund this program. It’s a surreal feeling being in a program sponsored by people who care about the same things I do: music and people. They did this just to help individual people like me have more opportunities. Now I can support my family with a welding job and still work on Itz Namo, my music, thanks to their generosity.”
Solis described his classroom experience as inclusive, encouraging and supportive. “My favorite part about the class was the people because everyone was so helpful. Professor Nick builds a community atmosphere between us all,” said Solis. “Professor Nick and his assistant teacher, Trish, led by example. My first day, I accidentally welded the table. I was so nervous. But they reminded me that we are all learning and we have to start somewhere. I didn’t feel worried after that. Everyone knew we were in this together.”
Now, just a few years after high school, Solis finds himself embracing a college experience he once dismissed.
“I want to thank Metallica for funding this program through GRCC,” said Solis. “It changed my life. It now shares both of my passions, music and welding. I always thought college doesn’t really benefit you, but I see a different side of it now. I can support my family now. This changed my mind. I now see how valuable the learning process is and that there are options that everyone can afford.”
Learn more about the Metallica Scholars Welding Bootcamp and the All Within My Hands Foundation.
This story was reported by Anjula Caldwell.