For the past six years, Rich Baker has continuously developed his skills as a sheet metal sculptor, creating vivid 3-D representations of everything from people to peregrines. Richcraft Ironworks has drawn customers from around the world, thanks to Baker’s attention to detail.

At EuroBLECH 2016 the world’s machine tool makers and software developers showcased innovations aimed at reducing the time between part conceptualization and final delivery to the customer.

Some people look at automation in a manufacturing setting as a threat to future job creation. That’s not the case for Surrey, B.C., Canada-based AI Industries. It has invested in automated processing equipment for its structural steel fabricating business and grown its work force simultaneously.