An Elite Bladesmithing Experience is an immersive, four-day workshop for high school students to conduct bladesmithing and experience the Science of Swords!

Students will work directly with master blacksmith Mr. Jack Parks (Fire Steel Forge) to create a chef’s knife using traditional forging and heat-treating techniques. In addition to daily hands-on forging and blacksmithing activities, students will also explore the science and engineering principles behind blade-making under the guidance of Metallurgical Engineering Department Head Dr. Michael West. This component will include investigation of the scientific literature (ASM Handbooks, Materials Science and Engineering – An Introduction by Callister & Rethwisch) and laboratory testing. This is an elite workshop limited to 10 students.

Scientific/engineering principles will include:
Structure of metals
Principles of metalworking and forging
Processing and hardening of blades by heat treatment
Characterization of metals through advanced microscopy
Blade testing and performance