A substrate(s) for an integrated circuit (IC) package employing a metal core for improved electrical shielding and structural strength. In one aspect, a substrate comprises a core layer. The core layer comprises a metal core, the metal core having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The core layer further comprises a first insulation layer on the first surface and a second insulation layer on the second surface. The substrate further comprises a first metallization structure adjacent to the first insulation layer and a second metallization structure adjacent to the second insulation layer. The metal core provides electrical shielding of signals/power routed through the metal core for noise coupling reduction allowing a higher density of signal and power paths to be supported in substrate, while also strengthening structural integrity to prevent or reduce warpage in the IC package.