Science of Swords

Science of Swords – 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

ENROLLMENT PROCESS:

All prospective campers must complete the following items before their summer camp application will be evaluated.

Submit the online registration.
Submit a Student Interests Statement along with the online registration. In no more than 400 words, submit an essay to describe your interest in Metallurgical Engineering or Materials Science.

It's important to note that acceptance into the program is not guaranteed. Evaluation and notification will take place for each student after the registration form and personal essay completed and evaluated by the camp director, Dr. Michael West. This workshop will be limited to a small number of participants to ensure that all students can maximize their immersive experience. Review for acceptance will happen every couple of weeks and applicants will be notified.

South Dakota Mines Summer Camp Participants

Camp Interest Form

Fill out a Camp Interest Form and be one of the first to know when camp registration opens and hear about our new camps! Summer Camp Interest Form

Free
Current Grades: 9th-12th
June 27-July 1, 2022

Day Camp 8 AM to 5 PM
Lunch is provided
Registration 8:30 AM Monday June 27
Parent Reception Friday at 1 PM

For more information

Contact Camp Director
Dr. Mike West
(605) 394-1283
Michael.West@sdsmt.edu

Brought to you by —

Mike West MET Faculty from the Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering which offers both undergraduate and graduate studies. (Learn more about what material scientists and metallurgical engineers do.)

This camp is directed by department head Dr. Mike West, who can find the magic in any material. Students enjoy a fun combination of indoors and outdoors activities and lots of hands-on learning.