Kansas City Metalworks (KCM) is one of the leading steel and metal designer shops in the Kansas City, Mo.-metro area. Founded by Asheer Akram in 2007, the demand for his artistic skills in designing and fabrication has propelled him to a level of regional prominence. KCM designs a variety of custom fabrication sculptures and works with architects, engineers, landscape architects, builders, and contractors throughout the region. Akram brings a hands-on approach to his craft and plays a significant role in working directly with his clients in all facets of a project.

One area of validation for artists is the recognition of magazine publishers, such as, Kansas City Homes & Gardens (more commonly known as KCH&G) and Kansas City At Home, both locally published magazines featuring unique interests of upscale homeowners. Akrams steel-fabrication artistry has been featured in numerous issues highlighting projects that range in variation from outdoor lounges, decorative gates, art structures, and privacy walls. In addition, KCM has designed several stair and railing structures specified for galvanizing and Natina, an advanced color solutions that rapidly creates a rustic brown finish on galvanized surfaces without compromising the protection offered by the galvanized layer. The specification of galvanizing and Natina on the many stair and railing structures underscores not only the importance of blending steel fabrication projects with the surrounding environment, but ensuring the longevity of these structures for many decades.

As an organization, the galvanizer supports and encourages local artists, specifiers, and fabricators to use environmentally friendly coatings, such as galvanizing and Natina throughout the various aspects of a project.

The education process allowing for the exchange of ideas among metal coating applicators, engineers, and architects is critical to understanding the benefits of HDG and Natina. Exposure of HDG and Natina in the Kansas City-area publications is an important part of this education process, allowing those outside the industry to get a better understanding of HDG, why it is significant and the role it will play in the future. This is important, especially as there is increasing awareness (and oftentimes requirement) of sustainable structures. HDG is able to provide an effective and cost-effective solution.