GREEN BAY, Wis. — This isn't your ordinary classroom.
"They're learning how to machine things, learning how to operate CNC machines they're learning how to weld, and fabricate," said Andy Belongia.
Belongia has some strict requirements for Bay Link Manufacturing: he requires a select number of juniors and seniors to submit a resume and cover letter to be a part of his class.
"We learn how to make estimates for a company that they wanted pieces done for," said graduated student Juan Delrio. Delrio now works at Bassett Mechanical, and is a future HVAC engineer.
Belongia said some of his most successful students struggle in "conventional" subjects, "often times those students excel being down here working with their hands, and they're learning math, and learning things they didn't learning these skills, but they're applying it."
Recent graduate Madalynn Dejardin, graduated from the program and is a hopeful "steam fitter" for Bassett Mechanical, "hopefully I'll get my apprenticeship soon and then I'll be going through a five year apprenticeship program."
"When the students come back after graduate high school, hey Mr. Belongia I got this job and got this house thats really rewarding," said Belongia.
Most of his students after graduating become successful engineers, manufacturers or pursue business in college.
For more information contact Andy Belongia.
