Soon after during that same summer, she attended the University of Nebraska at Kearney’s Biz Kidz Camp — where students ages 10-14 learn basic skills about starting and improving their own ideas and products — and decided to begin a blacksmithing business through the program: T+M Blacksmiths.

“Some people don’t really believe it at first because I’m just a young girl,” Megan explained. “Some people believe it and they think it’s really cool.”

Tony, who has worked with metal for most of his life, was more than glad to pass on the ancient craft to his granddaughter. Megan now forges items such as cross necklaces, blades, garden ornaments and key chains.

One of the challenges Megan faced was becoming comfortable with all the tools as well as the intimidation of getting burned or cut at some point. She quickly plowed ahead, however, eager to learn new things.

“I feel like I’ve grown quite a bit because at the beginning I was just nervous of the forge and the welder, but now I’m able to use that stuff without any fear,” she said. “One of the biggest things I learned was don’t be afraid of it. Just jump in and do it.”