FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
From Shop Helper to Operations Manager-in-Training: Kuuma Celebrates Ethan Zaitz’s Promotion
TOWER, MN — Lamppa Manufacturing and its Kuuma brand, a trusted name in handcrafted sauna stoves and furnaces, proudly announce Ethan Zaitz’s promotion to Operations Manager-in-Training. Ethan’s story is a testament to what’s possible when hard work, humility, and a willingness to learn come together.
Ethan began his journey at Kuuma as a part-time shop helper, assisting in both the sheet metal and stove preparation areas. With no prior experience, he quickly proved himself—learning to weld from scratch, starting with sauna and furnace doors, and eventually the entire welding process used to build Kuuma’s signature stoves.
“When I first started, I even had to look up how to use a tape measure online,” Ethan shared with a laugh. “But over time, I found that I loved working with my hands—and I kept pushing myself to learn more.”
In addition to his technical skills, Ethan developed one of the most essential traits of any leader: communication. From working with different personalities in the shop to interacting with management and customers, Ethan says learning how to talk with people has been one of his biggest accomplishments.
“This promotion has shown me that I can face new challenges and grow through them,” he said. “It’s been a personal and professional journey I’m really proud of.”
For Kuuma, Ethan’s rise reflects a culture grounded in reliability, growth, and small-town values.
“His positive attitude and teamwork stood out right away,” said Garrett Lamppa, Lamppa Manufacturing CEO. “He works well with everyone, always has positive body language, and is extremely reliable. I need people I can count on, and Ethan has exceeded my expectations since day one.”
In fact, Ethan was hired even when no position was officially open—simply because of the impression he made.
“That decision speaks to who we are as a company,” Lamppa added. “We’re a small-town manufacturer that believes in people. We knew the kind of person we were getting, and he’s continued to show us what’s possible when you invest in the right team.”
Promoting from within is central to Lamppa Manufacturing’s philosophy.
“It’s especially important here in our smaller communities on the Iron Range,” Lamppa said. “When employees see their hard work is recognized, it strengthens not just the individual—but the entire team.”
Looking ahead, Lamppa is optimistic about what’s to come.
“I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together in the next few years.”
With this promotion, Ethan Zaitz steps into a new leadership role—and becomes a shining example of Lamppa Manufacturing’s commitment to its people, values, and future in Tower, MN.
Contact:
Garrett Lamppa
CEO, Lamppa Manufacturing Inc.
Phone: 218-753-2330
Email: lampmfg@gmail.com
Website: www.lamppakuuma.com