From a young age, Michael Burow, 2023 Lake Country Lutheran graduate, loved blacksmithing, stemming from his love of working with his hands and Forged in Fire, a competition based television show amongst blacksmiths. His grandfather stoked this passion by introducing him to a friend and winner of Forged in Fire, and from there, Michael never turned back.

After years of making things independently, Michael started his own business, MB Iron Werks, which produces one-of-a-kind knives, hatchets, axes, fire pits, and more out of the Milwaukee Lutheran High School workshop. Michael shared that his dad taught him construction when he was younger and encouraged him to start the business and give it his all. “My dad has always taught me to work hard and work for the glory of God.”

Michael has simultaneously worked on building his business, graduating high school, and earning an associate’s degree from Waukesha County Technical College due to his involvement in Lake Country Lutheran’s dual enrollment program. This program allowed Michael to attend half-days at WCTC and finish his remaining coursework at LCL in the afternoons. One year post high school, Michael will graduate with his associate’s degree.

The support of LCL was paramount to Michael’s success as he juggled multiple goals, and they never wavered in their encouragement of Michael’s plans. Michael shared, “LCL is probably one of the best opportunities I’ve ever had. Mr. Malm and Mr. Newman taught me so much about God in a really engaging way... I learned so much about the Bible.”

Over the next few years, Michael is excited to continue building his business. He aims to set up a workshop of his own, branch out into more custom work, and continue giving back to Christian organizations. He shared that his career goals center on Christ because of LCL’s impact on him.