Metallica Scholar chosen for work ethic and leadership

Caleb Riffle had a choice after high school – study welding or play baseball for a university.

“I’ve played baseball my whole life, but I was burnt out,” he said. “My grandpa was a welder, and I was always fascinated when I watched him work. I feel like it’s an art.”

Riffle has been a student at ECTC since Fall 2024. He recently earned the title of Metallica Scholar, but his path has not always been easy.

“When I first started working in welding, it was hard to keep up with all the people who had been doing it for a while,” he said. “It was frustrating to see people doing what I wanted to do, but I kept working at it. It took a lot of practice, dedication and extra work to get to where I am now,” he said.

That dedication is what led to Riffle earning the title of Metallica Scholar. ECTC’s Metallica Scholars are selected by their professors and are students who stand out among their peers. Welding Program Coordinator Jared Spalding said he nominated Riffle because he has consistently proven to be among the best students in the welding program.

“When it comes to attitude, work ethic and leadership, Caleb is an example to be imitated,” he said.

Riffle plans to open his own welding practice after working in the business for a few years. Becoming a Metallica Scholar can only help, he said.

 “I was excited to earn this because I put a lot of effort toward the program, and so to get rewarded is a good feeling for sure,” Riffle said.

Caleb Riffle