Blacksmiths
Creators of the Forge
A hammer sparks as it strikes heated metal, slowly shaping the glowing bar into the loose form of a sword. The Dwarf places the metal back in the forge, heating it again, before bringing it back to the anvil to thin the bar further, stretching and forming it to be a delicate rapier. With a few hours' work, the once-heavy bar of metal will become a sharp blade, polished and honed to perfection before being fitted into a scabbard and added to the shop. The next day will dawn on another piece of metal, another sword ready to be shaped and forged, called forth from something once shapeless.
An open shop echoes with peals of sound, horseshoes being shaped on large anvils. While snow continues outside, the forge is warm, slightly blocked from the wind, as the Clay Giants make the things that help their Hillbreds with their heavy loads. The shoes created here are not as perfect or clean as those made by the Dwarves, but the Clay Giants are both blacksmith and farrier, filling all roles to keep their horses happy and sound.
Smithies are as common as taverns in small villages, a necessity of life that cannot be ignored. From weapons and armor to horseshoes and simple tools, those who take up a hammer and an anvil create art and necessity from shapeless metal. Even the everyday items can be works of art, forged by master craftsmen who take pride in their work. It is this need that breeds such great respect, that causes children to stare at the forges and those in them, like the armored Knights that pass by. Without those who create in the forges, so much fails to exist.
Career
Qualifications
Blacksmithing requires not only many years of formal education, but also a number of years served as an apprentice under a successful Blacksmith before one can set out on their own. Most countries and kingdoms require at least two years of education, as well as five to seven years as an apprentice to become a Blacksmith, but the Dwarven Kingdom and Kingdom of Gems are much more strict in their requirements. Dwarves must attend the School of Mines, focusing on smithing, to be allowed into the profession of blacksmithing. Other countries and kingdoms may send people to the School of Mines to gain an education in blacksmithing as well if those places have amicable relations with the Dwarves.
Career Progression
Blacksmithing requires a lot of physical labor, and people in the profession may specialize in the creation of a variety of items. Those who have served in the profession for a number of years and have a professional education, most likely at the School of Mines, may earn the title of Master Smith, which allows them more opportunities to sell their goods, build their forges, or work for important entities. The more complex a smithing project is, the more education and experience are necessary to complete the job to the highest standard.
Perception
Social Status
No matter the country or kingdom, being a Blacksmith is seen as a coveted profession, one that may bring significant social status depending on the area. In places such as the Dwarven Kingdom and Kingdom of Gems, Blacksmiths are treated with great respect and most children aspire to reach these positions. In the Human Empire, Blacksmiths are seen as a step away from becoming Gunsmiths, another profession taht is necessary for every day life. Because of all that these people create, Blacksmiths are beloved, even if the work may sometimes be grueling.
Type
Engineering
Other Associated professions
Related Technologies
As a tradesman, I love this choice for this prompt, a great nod to how important such jobs actually are, and love the idea of a skilled trade being looked upon in such a way, feels very real.