Education
Brief Bio
Terry Rasmussen is Deputy Director of Research with the Arbegast Materials Processing
& Joining (AMP) Laboratory at South Dakota Mines. With more than 33 years of experience
at Nucor Corporation, Terry began his career as a process metallurgist in the Nucor
Nebraska melt shop before advancing through production leadership, Chief Metallurgist,
and Special Projects Engineer roles.
Throughout his industrial career, Terry maintained a strong connection with South
Dakota Mines, helping build lasting partnerships between the university and Nucor
that remain strong today. He served on the Metallurgical Engineering Industrial Advisory
Board and worked with university and industry leaders to communicate the need for
modern facilities for the Metallurgy, Mining, and Geology programs. Those efforts
contributed to the development of the Nucor Mineral Industries Building, including
Nucor's $5 million investment in the project. Terry brings extensive experience in
steelmaking, metallurgy, operations, and project development to AMP, with a focus
on expanding industrial and government-sponsored research opportunities.
Beyond his professional career, Terry worked closely with leaders across Nebraska
and within the Norfolk community to advance economic development and quality-of-life
initiatives. He played a key role in efforts to transform an underutilized section
of river through Norfolk into a whitewater recreation area for kayaking and tubing.
The project also included park improvements and the development of biking and walking
trails. Terry is also an active Rotarian and helped develop Norfolk Rotary's Music
in the Park program and a summer community event series that continue to bring residents
and visitors together.
Terry and his wife, Lois, have three children, all of whom attended South Dakota Mines
and are now working in industry. Outside of work, Terry and Lois are avid Jeep enthusiasts
who enjoy exploring the Black Hills and spending time with friends and family.