Quoted:
see if there are local blacksmiths in your area. or blacksmithing schools. they're getting scarce now a days
Blacksmiths are a dying breed. My Grandfather was a blacksmith, but later in life became a machinist as work for blacksmiths was few and far between. I spent summers with him when I was younger, and he would do a little smithing here and there. I remember how hot it was in the shop when he was working metal. I recall the extra time he took to temper or harden metal, especially if he was making a tool. It was neat too, we would past by some places and my grand mother would mention how grandpa had built the handrails on this building or the sign holder on that building.
If you can still find someone who hand works metal and steel, jump on the chance to see if you can befriend them and maybe do a little apprenticeship on the side. If anyone shoes horses in your area or restores old farm equipment they may be a good start too.