“Imagination is one of the most profound human qualities. Every great achievement in human history has started as a work of imagination.”

Beginning life as a passion project, Genesis Custom Sabers has since grown into Rob Petkau’s full time job. From cobbled together ‘junk sabers’ to immaculately crafted illuminated swords, Rob has honed his craft over the years, and now places only the highest quality sabers in the hands of wannabe Jedis.

In this episode Rob explores the evolution of his designs, and how advances in technology have allowed him to create perfectly custom fit blades. He explains how he creates and designs the sound fonts that bring the sabers to life. And he discusses the immense appreciation he has for his fans, some who treat their sabers as ‘shelf queens’, and others, like Jimmy, who test (and break) them in combat.

We also hear from Jon Hirschtick, who heads up PTC’s Onshape division. He explains how Onshape allows Rob to meticulously finesse and customize his designs.

Find out more about the Genesis Custom Sabers here.

Find out more about Onshape here.

Your host is Paul Haimes from industrial software company PTC. 

Episodes are released bi-weekly. Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter for updates

This is an 18Sixty production for PTC. Executive producer is Jacqui Cook. Sound design and editing by Ollie Guillou. Location recording by Jess Schmidt. Music by Rowan Bishop.