Regardless of where they start, students finish with something more valuable than just welding skills. They find confidence, direction and a deeper understanding of what they’re capable of becoming.  

At the center of the academy is instructor Adam Zogata.  

"My heartbeat is for their future, whatever that looks like," he said. "I'm not just here to teach classes. I fully embrace my responsibility as their instructor, but also as their coach. How can I help get you there?" 

That mindset made a lasting impact on the students.  

For Ayron Deleasky, seemed like a practical way to prepare for a career in plumbing and pipefitting. The program allowed him to earn valuable credits, save money on future schooling and gain hands-on experience during his senior year of high school. He graduated from Phillips High School this past spring.  

But what stood out most to Ayron wasn’t the technical training.  

"Adam gets down on our level," he said. "He doesn't judge you, no matter where you're at." 

Students describe Zogata as someone who never gets angry when mistakes happen, instead turning every setback into a learning opportunity. 

"He cares about everything," Ayron said. "He's always there to help. He makes class fun and makes you want to show up every day. You don't have to plan on being a welder for Adam to care about your future." 

When Isabelle Gumz, who graduated from Rib Lake High School this year, enrolled in the academy, she wasn’t even sure welding was something she actually wanted to pursue. This summer, she began a welding fabrication apprenticeship. She credits the academy for helping her discover both her interests and her potential.  

“You couldn’t ask for a better welding teacher,” she said. 

As a hands-on learner, Isabelle appreciated the opportunity to spend most days in the shop instead of sitting in a traditional classroom, and she gained confidence navigating an adult learning environment. 

"Adam gives us the freedom to figure things out," she said. "He gives us the tools, but it's up to us to use them. He's always willing to help, answer questions and give guidance." 

Through industry tours, fabrication projects and conversations about career options, students gain a firsthand look at the many opportunities available in manufacturing and skilled trades.  

Like many students, Joe Wartgrow, a 2026 Chequamegon High School graduate, joined the academy because the opportunity presented itself. Now, he’s pursuing a career in the field. He liked the way Zogata prepares students for more than the technical aspect of work, encouraging them to think about the bigger picture.  

"He's always there to help you with what's going on next," Wartgow said. "When we're touring shops, he points out things you wouldn't normally think about, like quality of life and workplace culture." 

For Zogata, watching those moments of growth unfold is the most rewarding part of the job. 

"It's a journey," he said. "Some students know exactly what they want and go after it. Others are still figuring it out. The beautiful thing is seeing how skilled some of them become and watching them grow." 

That growth often extends far beyond welding. Zogata intentionally uses the academy as a vehicle for teaching life skills, responsibility and self-motivation. 

Students quickly learn that success requires more than simply showing up. 

"There are times when it's challenging because they realize you don't become competent just by being present," Zogata said. "You have to work for it." 

The academy introduces students to a new level of freedom and accountability, one that mirrors both college and the workplace. 

"They get a fresh look at what life looks like beyond high school," Zogata said. "There's more freedom, but there's also more responsibility. They realize their choices have so much to do with their results." 

His industry background plays a critical role in those lessons. After nearly two decades at NTC and years working in manufacturing, Zogata understands firsthand what employers expect and what students need to succeed. 

"I know how difficult it can be," he said. "I want them to succeed. I work hard to coach them on what industry looks like and help them understand that you can't just want it; you have to go after it." 

This year, 17 students graduated from the academy. Some will pursue careers in welding. Others will take what they've learned into different trades, industries or educational pathways. 

For Zogata, the destination matters less than the growth that happens along the way. 

Below are the students who earned the GMAW technical diploma as part of the Phillips Manufacturing Academy during the 2025-2026 academic year:  

• Sage Cabe 
• Ayron DeLeasky 
• Isabelle Gumz 
• Rhys Harris 
• Adam Katzenberger 
• Rhianna Linsmeyer  
• Lily Mason 
• Hunter Murphy 
• Cole Palecek 
• Wyatt Peterson 
• Evan Quinnell 
• Noah Siegmann 
• Kadin Slack 
• Tucker Von Seggern 
• Joseph Wartgow 
• Benjamin Zogata  
• Micah Zogata