2024.11.01 The Muse

Mentor, Walter L. 'Bud' Harvey

Walter "Bud" Harvey, began learning blacksmithing skills in 1997 from Uri Hofi, a master blacksmith from Israel and Tom Clark, owner of the Ozark School of Blacksmithing in Petosi, Missouri. Bud studied with Hofi, Tom and other masters over 5 years at the Ozark School and later with other masters, including Mark Aspery in 2008 at Penland School in NC. Bud's formal education includes BS Mechanical Engineering, BS Materials Science and 37 professional years in industry. For 25 years before studying blacksmithing, Bud served as a leader in the Boy Scouts of America and received the Silver Beaver Award in 1993, authorized by President Bill Clinton. Bud began sharing his blacksmithing skills with college engineering students in 2002. He conducts 50 blacksmithing classes annually and has taught over 750 students of all ages. His classes include basic and advanced levels as defined by the Arts Blacksmiths Association of North America, (ABANA). Bud is a certified Level III Instructor, the highest recognized instructor level.

Apprentice, George McKenna

George started blacksmithing after completing a doctoral program in 2017. After completing three graduate programs and earning a doctorate, he felt it was time to do "something" with his hands. Blacksmithing has always been an interest since watching them work in western and fantasy movies. He was hooked after his first swing of the hammer. In addition to working towards the national blacksmithing certification, George is learning how to make custom hand-forged knives. At some point in the future, he hopes to run his own blacksmith and bladesmith shop. When not working or blacksmithing, George is a martial artist focusing on fitness, Muay Thai Kickboxing, Kali (knife and stick fighting), and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.