Kate Youdell

Dan Hurst, a welding teacher at Red Mountain High School, Mesa, Ariz., believes in getting his students real-world experiences when he can. He found just the opportunity last year in the refurbishment of an old locomotive that has been a city treasure since 1958.

Shane Henderson’s story is just about as all American as the metal sculptures he creates and sells. In five years his company, Metal Art of Wisconsin, has amassed more than 200,000 followers on Instagram, created over 250 metal art product offerings, and has moved four times to accommodate growth.

Bruno Roy is a Canadian welder who creates artwork that raises recycling and ecological awareness.

Ski Lift Designs, Denver, finds a market for refurbished ski lift chairs.