2011 BX Craftsmanship Award Recipient

The steel fabrication talent of Danny Chard is evident in the columns and roof framing of the west gazebo at Harrison Park.

In order to accomplish the exact contours specified by the designer, the steel had to be specially cut, trimmed and formed to produce a seamless appearance.

Each section was trimmed a few feet at a time and rolled to several different radii. Chard spent countless hours researching the precise formulas needed to form the steel.

Working with a crew of nine, Chard hand crafted all mouldings and trim pieces in the shop, where he pre-assembled the 26 by 23 foot structure before dividing it into two sections for shipment.

The finished product features 25,000 pounds of steel and conceals both the downspouts and electrical components for the gazebo. Chard included plug welded rivets to the outer ring, giving the appearance that the columns are riveted to the roof structure.

Chard has been employed by Wanner Metal Worx, Inc. for eight of his nearly 40 years in the trade.

A first-time Craftsmanship Award winner, Chard has also used his welding expertise on a variety of bridge projects, and was responsible for a majority of the basket handles at the Longaberger Company home office.

Updated 8/5/2011