As a kid, Ian Zimmerman was one of millions to be captivated by the “Lord of the Rings” films and the “Doctor Who” TV series.

Being inspired by the stories to fashion a life-sized TARDIS, swords and other heroes’ tools out of cardboard or plywood, however, made him a bit different.

Growing up and digesting YouTube videos on forging real implements, borrowing a neighbor’s anvil and tools, making yourself into a bladesmith through trial and error, and winning a national competition? A unique story, indeed.

“During the pandemic, I’d be up at 5 a.m. with a billowing cloud in the neighborhood, just working on different projects. Some worked, but many didn’t. I’m sure my neighbors loved me,” Zimmerman said, with a smile.

Last fall, Zimmerman, a technical studies major from Bedford County, Pa., was crowned the champion of “Forged in Fire,” a History Channel competition where bladesmiths re-create historical edged weapons.

Contestants were tasked with making a Japanese greatsword, and Zimmerman performed his best tribute to the California mascot “Blaze” – a Vulcan and the Roman god of fire. “It usually takes me a couple of days to make a knife if it’s of good quality, and they want you to do it in five hours. It’s very tense and it makes for a good TV show,” he said.

Zimmerman also loves running, and he credits participating in track and field for sharpening his perseverance – for life and for TV.

“The mindset and perseverance of Coach (Daniel) Caulfield at Cal and my high school coach, Coach (Wayne) Sherlock, helped to create in me played a massive role in how I approached the challenges I faced. It was, all in all, just a wonderful experience, and I’m blessed to have been able to compete on the show.”

Zimmerman, who is a jeweler at MarBill Diamonds & Jewelry in Belle Vernon, Pa., was asked to ponder what a “storybook career” might look like. “There’s this place in New Zealand, called Weta Workshop, that made some props for ‘Lord of the Rings’ and contracts out for work. I’d love to build my own business where I also get hired out to make props for the film industry.

“I’ve never imagined myself to be a one-job person.”

Forging his own path, indeed.