Metallica Scholars Initiative

Polk State College is proud to be one of 15 schools across the nation to receive a $100,000 grant from All Within My Hands as part of the Metallica Scholars Initiative.

All Within My Hands is a nonprofit organization founded by members of the band Metallica and is dedicated to creating sustainable communities by supporting workforce education, the fight against hunger, and critical local services. In partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges, the initiative is providing direct support to Polk State’s Computer Numeric Control (CNC) Machining Program, including full scholarships for unemployed and underemployed individuals to complete the four-month program’s short-term training courses as well as funds for students to take exams for six National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) certifications that will qualify them for in-demand, high-wage jobs.

The CNC Machining Program takes eight weeks to complete and sessions will begin on:

  • October 12
  • January 11
  • March 8
  • May 17

Individuals who are interested in this free, short-term training opportunity should contact Coordinator Jamie Rowan at jrowan@polk.edu or 863.837.5954.

  1. What is CNC Machining?

    Computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery precision-cuts, grinds, or drills materials. Machinists are technicians who make adjustments to machines to control the speed, the material fed, and the path of the cut, as well as make sure the machines are set up properly, working efficiently, and producing a high-quality product.

  2. What kinds of jobs are graduates eligible for after the program?

    Machine operator, machinist

  3. What is the starting pay for these types of jobs?

    $18-$30 an hour

  4. How long is the program?

    8 weeks

  5. When do classes begin?

    Sessions begin October 12, January 11, March 8, and May 17

  6. How are classes delivered?

    Hybrid and face-to-face

  7. How can I sign up or learn more?

    Contact Jamie Rowan at JRowan@polk.edu or 863.837.5954

  8. Do you have information about successful graduates of the CNC program?

    The College is very proud of its CNC graduates and the stories below are just a few examples: