The business of building firetrucks is a science and an art, a balance of marrying engineers' blueprints with shiny red (or yellow, white, gold or green) paint.

M&W Fire Apparatus has mastered the techniques, and business is good. The Vinton fire and emergency truck manufacturer isn't feeling the same penny pinch that's pressing fire departments nationwide this year, said owner Raymond Plunkett, 42.

Read more: Hot niche market: Vinton Fire Apparatus stays in the black