Michael Poole, a former diver, and underwater welder opened his own shop, Blue Collar Artisans, in Easthampton in 2006. Poole is a renowned local welder with a strong background in creating custom work for individuals and small businesses. Some of his Western Massachusetts clients include The Roost, Jake’s Restaurant, The Northampton Brewery, the Citys of Agawam and Easthampton and Edwards Church. Since 2006 Blue Collar Artisans has been working in metal, glass, and wood to design and create beautiful functional items that will stand the test of time, both in design and durability.