How One FlexTrades Project Engineer Significantly Reduced Machine Downtime
Finding experienced engineers can be a major challenge for manufacturers, especially in specialized fields like aerospace. Recently, an aerospace manufacturer reached out to us facing
Maintaining Company Culture in a Remote Workforce
At FlexTrades, we believe that a strong company culture and meaningful connections are the backbone of our success. Since transitioning to a fully remote workforce,
Three Things to Consider When Purchasing Machine Tools
When we attended IMTS 2024, we had the pleasure to meet Mike Hampton, Senior Manager of Technical Services and Solutions for Okuma America. We wanted
Transform Year-End Manufacturing Stress into Success with FlexTrades
As the year winds down, many American manufacturing companies find themselves grappling with mounting pressure to meet year-end production targets. Tight deadlines, labor shortages, and
Santa’s Workshop: How American Manufacturers Keep Christmas Magic Alive
When we envision Santa’s workshop, we picture a bustling hub where toys are crafted, decorations are assembled, and holiday magic comes to life. In the
What Are Tariffs? Understanding Their Impact on Trade and Manufacturing
Tariffs have long been a cornerstone of economic policy and international trade. These taxes on imported goods have been part of the U.S. trade landscape
FlexTrades is Your Trade Secret for Fast Results
The Challenge of Rapid Workforce Deployment In today’s fast-paced manufacturing industry, the ability to quickly deploy skilled tradespeople can be the difference between success and
FlexTrades Case Study: Accelerating Product Launches with Skilled CMM Programming
A leading manufacturer of motion controls was facing significant delays in launching their new product lines. The inability to complete orders on time was putting
FlexTrades Drives Cost Savings for Machinery Manufacturer
The Challenge A leading machinery manufacturing company was facing a significant production bottleneck due to increased orders. The Operations Manager, concerned about a potential backlog
Top 5 Challenges in U.S. Manufacturing Recruitment and How FlexTrades Solves Them
The U.S. manufacturing industry is the backbone of the nation’s economy, producing everything from advanced aerospace components to everyday consumer goods. But as the sector
The Impact of Black Friday on U.S. Manufacturers: Benefits and Challenges
Black Friday is the day when the holiday shopping frenzy reaches its peak, bringing excitement to consumers and chaos for retailers and manufacturing. While consumers
How to Meet Stretch Goals Without Stretching Your Workforce
The end of the year is a pivotal time for American manufacturing companies. Production ramps up, holidays impact schedules, and stretch goals loom large. Balancing
Three Reasons to Go Beyond Traditional Recruitment to Reach End-of-Year Goals
The end of the year signifies a large jump in demand for manufacturing companies across the world. Unfortunately, some have critical year-end goals that seem
How Top Food Manufacturers Bring Thanksgiving Favorites to Your Table
Thanksgiving is a time when families gather to share gratitude and, of course, indulge in a feast that has become a cornerstone of American tradition.
Embracing Your Whole Self: A Workplace Revolution
In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate America, a groundbreaking shift is taking place. Companies are increasingly recognizing the value of fostering a work environment where
How FlexTrades Saved a Pharmaceutical Manufacturer from Costly Delays
The Challenge: Meeting Production Demands with Staffing Gaps In the fast-paced world of pharmaceutical manufacturing, every second counts. Downtime is simply not an option, especially
Rapid Response to Critical Maintenance Needs in Global Manufacturing
FlexTrades provides reliable and timely solutions to meet the urgent maintenance needs of our clients. One such success story involves our collaboration with a global
Powering Manufacturing with Skilled, Ready-to-Work Tradespeople
The world of manufacturing doesn’t wait, and neither does FlexTrades. Imagine you’re a production manager in the thick of a high-demand cycle, where every part
Mission Critical: Overcoming Year-End Challenges
As the year was winding down, one of our aerospace manufacturing clients faced a daunting challenge. With a critical year-end delivery deadline looming, they were
How Can FlexTrades Assist with Seasonal Up-Ticks?
How prepared is your business for the upcoming seasonal rush? If you’re one of the many struggling to keep up with demand during this difficult
Santa’s Workshop: How American Manufacturers Keep Christmas Magic Alive
When we envision Santa’s workshop, we picture a bustling hub where toys are crafted, decorations are assembled, and holiday magic comes to life. In the
10 Fascinating Facts About Patents You Didn’t Know
A patent is a legal document granted by a sovereign authority to an inventor or inventors, giving them the right (for a set amount of
How Green Energy is Transforming American Manufacturing
Green energy, clean energy, renewable energy! Although they seem like the newest trend, these ideas have been around for quite some time. In fact, the
The 10 Worst American Inventions of the Last 10 Years
As a content creator for FlexTrades, it’s my pleasure to present a blend of humor, snark, and frustration with the top 10 worst American inventions
Today in History: The Berlin Airlift (June 26th, 1948)
It is April, 1949, in West Berlin. Western Allied soldiers walk the streets, there are military checkpoints to get in or out of the city,
What is Juneteenth & Why Do We Celebrate the Day?
FlexTrades is all about manufacturing, and this industry is all about making things. However, we try to remember the people doing the making, and all
The History of the First U.S. Jet Engine
As wild as it seems, we can trace back the invention of jet engines to 150 BC with the development of the aeolipile. And it
Highlighting Black-Owned Manufacturing Businesses in the United States
The manufacturing industry is one of America’s great invisible strengths. They keep our stores stocked, our transportation systems running, and our people employed. And while
Ten years ago, in 2012, the Fabricators and Manufacturers’ Association (FMA) founded Manufacturing Day (MFG Day). MFG Day is a national movement to show the
On September 11th, 2001, the unthinkable happened when four airplanes were hijacked by militants associated with the extremist group al Qaeda. Of the four planes,
Stop Trying to Become Influencers: We Need Electricians
This brief, semi-viral clip, stitched together by several thousand satirically minded TikTokers, is one that has stuck with me for several reasons. First and foremost
What’s Inside Every Technician’s Toolbox?
Every technician has a toolbox, but what do you NEED to have in it? While there’s no “right” answer, here is a list of tools
Three Things to Consider When Purchasing Machine Tools
When we attended IMTS 2024, we had the pleasure to meet Mike Hampton, Senior Manager of Technical Services and Solutions for Okuma America. We wanted
Santa’s Workshop: How American Manufacturers Keep Christmas Magic Alive
When we envision Santa’s workshop, we picture a bustling hub where toys are crafted, decorations are assembled, and holiday magic comes to life. In the
What Are Tariffs? Understanding Their Impact on Trade and Manufacturing
Tariffs have long been a cornerstone of economic policy and international trade. These taxes on imported goods have been part of the U.S. trade landscape
Powering Manufacturing with Skilled, Ready-to-Work Tradespeople
The world of manufacturing doesn’t wait, and neither does FlexTrades. Imagine you’re a production manager in the thick of a high-demand cycle, where every part
Mission Critical: Overcoming Year-End Challenges
As the year was winding down, one of our aerospace manufacturing clients faced a daunting challenge. With a critical year-end delivery deadline looming, they were
How Can FlexTrades Assist with Seasonal Up-Ticks?
How prepared is your business for the upcoming seasonal rush? If you’re one of the many struggling to keep up with demand during this difficult
How FlexTrades Saved Christmas: A Fun Holiday Labor Solution Story
The North Pole was in chaos. Christmas was only weeks away, and Santa’s workshop, typically buzzing with the cheerful sounds of busy elves, was unusually
Solving Manufacturing Labor Crises During Year-End Holiday Season
As the year comes to a close, the manufacturing industry faces increased demand, tight production deadlines, and the pressure to meet year-end goals. For many
5 Essential Tips for Machinists from Ian Sandusky at IMTS 2024
At IMTS 2024 in Chicago, we had the pleasure of interviewing Ian Sandusky, a prominent content creator for Practical Machinist. He shared valuable insights on
Great Ways to Celebrate MFG Day
Twelve years ago, in 2012, the Fabricators and Manufacturers’ Association (FMA) founded Manufacturing Day (MFG Day). MFG Day is a national movement to show the
What is Manufacturing Day & Why Should We Celebrate?
Each year, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of Manufacturing Day (MFG Day), which takes place on the first Friday of October. Often, this celebration extends
Understanding Discrete and Process Manufacturing: Key Differences and Career Opportunities
As a Technical Manager at FlexTrades, I don’t work on the production or manufacturing floor, but I do work very closely with those who do.
The Unsung Heroes Who Keep America Running
Grab your coffee, put on your hard hat (or maybe just your reading glasses), and let’s dive into a day that’s all about celebrating the
How Green Energy is Transforming American Manufacturing
Green energy, clean energy, renewable energy! Although they seem like the newest trend, these ideas have been around for quite some time. In fact, the
The 10 Worst American Inventions of the Last 10 Years
As a content creator for FlexTrades, it’s my pleasure to present a blend of humor, snark, and frustration with the top 10 worst American inventions
National Safety Month: How FlexTrades Promotes Safety to Technicians
The National Safety Council has coined June as National Safety Month. During this time each year, the NSC brings additional spotlight to vital safety issues
Embracing the Rise of Skilled Trades in America
In recent years, there has been a notable shift in the career preferences of young Americans, with many opting for skilled trades over traditional college
The Impact of Carbon Footprint Reduction on U.S. Manufacturing Sustainability
Reducing the carbon footprint within U.S. manufacturing companies means more than just decreasing the amount of carbon dioxide emissions they produce. It’s a comprehensive approach
How SpaceX & Private Industry Changed the Space Race
Once a duopoly of Cold War rivals, the space race has transcended government confines, embracing the dynamism of private enterprise. Spearheading this cosmic renaissance, SpaceX
A Skilled Trades Career is Your Next Best Move
Dear High School Students and Those Considering Your Next Steps, You’re at a crossroads, facing one of the most significant decisions of your life: What
The 10 Worst American Inventions of the Last 10 Years
As a content creator for FlexTrades, it’s my pleasure to present a blend of humor, snark, and frustration with the top 10 worst American inventions
The Evolution of Farming Equipment from Plows to Autonomous Tractors
Ask someone what they know about farming, and you may get outdated answers. Many people will talk of the infamous red barn, maybe some cows
An Introductory Guide to Using AI for Content Marketing
Whether we like it or not, Artificial Intelligence is starting to change the landscape of modern life. If you’ve read a few emails or blogs
Tis the season for snow! With that, we thought we’d make our monthly installment of the How It’s Made article about snow. There are two
It’s the heart of summer now and that means many things – shorts and t-shirts, barbecuing and grilling, backyard pools or trips to the beach
A reader of our How It’s Made articles asked if we could share our knowledge about recycling. As a result, we adapted our How It’s
The History of the First U.S. Jet Engine
As wild as it seems, we can trace back the invention of jet engines to 150 BC with the development of the aeolipile. And it
How It’s Made – Plastic Plastic has been around for much longer than most of us know. In its earliest form (some say as early
Candy Corn: How it’s made, and where it goes!
Candy Corn, that’s right, let’s talk about it. The sweet treat that divides the nation remains a mystery to the masses. Today, we’re going to
On September 11th, 2001, the unthinkable happened when four airplanes were hijacked by militants associated with the extremist group al Qaeda. Of the four planes,
The prices at the pumps have been higher than ever recently. In fact, US gas prices were the highest they’ve ever been which has many
Chill Out: Six Ways Cold Plunges Boost the Health of Everyday Workers
Cold plunges, popularized several years ago by Dutch extreme athlete Wim Hof, also known as “The Iceman,” are a way of intentionally exposing your body
Eight Ways to Help Build a Morning Routine that Works for You
Whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, we all face the same challenge – waking up in the morning. For many of us,
National Pet Insurance Month: What is It & Why Should You Care?
It’s September, folks. You know what that means? Yes, it means your kids are finally going back to school, but it is also National Pet
Winter and winter driving. We all have a little bit of a love/hate relationship with it. The movies make it look like a magical time
It’s crucial to take precautions against the summer heat. With that in mind, below you will find a few essential tips to beat the summer
What is Mindfulness & Why Is It Important?
Mindfulness Matters: The origins of mindfulness practices are commonly thought to have started in Buddhism. If that were the case, the concept of mindfulness would
Save a Life & Join the National Donor Registry
National Donor Day: Awareness Did you know National Donor Day was on February 14? The purpose of this day is to educate people about the
Valentine’s Day: Long Distance Date Ideas
We all know long-distance relationships aren’t easy, and adding in the holidays makes them seem impossible. I’m going to share a few personal date-night ideas
New Beginnings: A Poem from the FlexTrades Team
When one door closes, How long do we wait until another one opens? How long do we stall, our hands floating above the doorknob wondering
Healthy Coffee Choices While on the Road
Are you craving a coffee run while also trying to be mindful of your health? This former barista has some tricks up her sleeve to
FlexTrades: How to Create Habits in 2023
Create Habits and Stay Mindful in 2024 Happy New Year, everyone! 2024 is here whether you’re ready for it or not. The new-year pressure to
Debunking New Year’s Resolutions
New Year’s Resolutions Redone – “Debunking Resolutions” New Year’s resolutions are often cited as the unattainable goals we set in January, and they are iconic
FlexTrades’ Pan-American Highway Challenge
We’re kicking off the New Year with a new challenge in hopes of inspiring you to get moving, at your own pace, with a team
Not Home for the Holidays You don’t have to look hard during this time of year to realize the holidays are upon us. City streets
National Working Parents’ Day – September 16th
As a working parent, a celebration for ‘Working Parents Day’ (I say with sarcastic air quotes) seems like extra work, because I know I’m the
National Grief Awareness Day is August 30 this year. It began almost a decade ago. The intention of this day (and National Grief Awareness Month
August is National Eye Exam Month
Your eyes: 2 things you are probably taking for granted, simply assuming they will always be happy and healthy without having to put much effort
Did you know that FlexTrades has an entire behind the scenes safety team!? It’s called “Safety First”. FlexTrades’ #1 priority is to keep our people
Maintaining Company Culture in a Remote Workforce
At FlexTrades, we believe that a strong company culture and meaningful connections are the backbone of our success. Since transitioning to a fully remote workforce,
What Are Tariffs? Understanding Their Impact on Trade and Manufacturing
Tariffs have long been a cornerstone of economic policy and international trade. These taxes on imported goods have been part of the U.S. trade landscape
The Impact of Black Friday on U.S. Manufacturers: Benefits and Challenges
Black Friday is the day when the holiday shopping frenzy reaches its peak, bringing excitement to consumers and chaos for retailers and manufacturing. While consumers
How Top Food Manufacturers Bring Thanksgiving Favorites to Your Table
Thanksgiving is a time when families gather to share gratitude and, of course, indulge in a feast that has become a cornerstone of American tradition.
Embracing Your Whole Self: A Workplace Revolution
In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate America, a groundbreaking shift is taking place. Companies are increasingly recognizing the value of fostering a work environment where
What is Manufacturing Day & Why Should We Celebrate?
Each year, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of Manufacturing Day (MFG Day), which takes place on the first Friday of October. Often, this celebration extends
7 Questions That Will Shape the 2024 NFL Season
The autumn wind may be a Raider but this year, as it sweeps across stadiums and the leaves begin to fall, it’s bringing big changes
Discover the Exciting New Events & Highlights of the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics
The Olympic games are widely known as one of the greatest shows of athleticism and talent globally. This year’s Paris Summer Olympics continues the tradition
The True Meaning of Community: A Story of Compassion and Support
Community. It’s a word that gets used a lot in the news, in corporate statements, at local events, everywhere. But what does it really mean?
The Trend That’s Making Blue Collar Careers Cool Again
In recent years, there’s been a noticeable shift in the career aspirations of younger generations. Much to the delight of industry advocates like “Dirty Jobs”
Leveraging Astrology for Business Success: Insights from FlexTrades
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, leaders are constantly seeking innovative methods to gain a competitive edge. While traditional strategies like market analysis and financial
This Day in History: Three Mile Island Accident
In the early hours of March 28, 1979 the largest nuclear accident the United States has ever seen is about to unfold. At 4:00am, the
A Skilled Trades Career is Your Next Best Move
Dear High School Students and Those Considering Your Next Steps, You’re at a crossroads, facing one of the most significant decisions of your life: What
Ultimate Guide to Budget-Friendly Travel: Tips & Tricks from FlexTrades
FlexTrades might be considered one of the top travel agents in the United States based upon all the flights, road trips, and hotels we book
RTO vs PTO – What’s the difference?
At FlexTrades, we offer very specialized services to our clients. Our workforce is made up of some of the most skilled tradespeople in the United
Last-Minute Places to Travel for Spring Break
Are you staring at the calendar realizing that spring break is right around the corner, and you haven’t made any plans yet? Don’t panic! While
How to Celebrate Valentine’s Day on the Road
If you found this article at 11:58pm on February 14th, you’re almost out of time! Stop reading this and call or text your significant other
Inspirational Inventors & Leaders: Black History Month
Throughout history, the manufacturing landscape has been dramatically reshaped by groundbreaking designs, inventions and products. At the heart of these transformative contributions are the ingenious,
My Digital Valentine: Embracing the Future With Artificial Love
Once upon a modern Valentine’s Day, as hearts fluttered and roses bloomed, I found myself enamored not with a traditional Juliette but with a suitor
How FlexTraders on Contract Can Celebrate the Super Bowl in Style
Hey there, FlexTraders! Caught in a different city during the Super Bowl because of your latest contract gig? No worries! We have got you covered with
A Manufacturing Facility’s Winter Checklist
Summer is just beginning to turn to fall, but many people around the country are already starting to think about colder weather. Maintenance managers aren’t
Attention Travel Technicians: Homemade Gift Guide Put a homemade twist on gifts during the holidays with this homemade gift guide. Check out these affordable and
Ten Most Common FAQs About Skilled Trades Careers
I’m a big advocate for the skilled trades in general, and manufacturing specifically. I spend a lot of time and energy to get in front
Fall Into Place: Workplace Tips for Success on the First Day
As the seasons change and life begins to settle in, we often think we need a change of scenery ourselves. Fall is one of the
What Your Accounting Department Wants You to Know
This week was National Payroll Week which is observed in recognition of all employees and the payroll professionals who pay them. These groups are put
International Update Your Resume Month
September is International Update Your Resume Month. Most careers require a resume as part of consideration for employment but too often people try to write
Back to School Tips for Tech School
The start of the next school year is just around the corner. Anyone with a TV or a smartphone knows that. We see lots of
August is National Eye Exam Month
Your eyes: 2 things you are probably taking for granted, simply assuming they will always be happy and healthy without having to put much effort
Did you know that FlexTrades has an entire behind the scenes safety team!? It’s called “Safety First”. FlexTrades’ #1 priority is to keep our people
How to Craft a Resume for Skilled Trade Jobs in 2024 & Beyond
Are you ready to hammer down the competition with a resume that’s as polished as a new set of wrenches? Well, you’ve clicked on the
Where Do FlexTrades’ Technicians Work?
FlexTrades plays a pivotal role in the manufacturing sector by providing highly skilled tradespeople, thereby enhancing production efficiency, minimizing downtime, and reducing backlogs. In essence,
The Value of a ReTool Employer Presentation by FlexTrades
Educators at universities and colleges across the country, in just about every field, invite employers into their classrooms to give presentations to students. Employers embrace
What Puts the “Flex” in FlexTrades?
What is the definition of a dream job in manufacturing? There is no wrong answer to this question. Most of us will have a different
Tricks of the Trades from a (non-tradesman) Mom
In a recent interview with one of our skilled technicians, Shane, I asked who inspired him to start his work in the trades. He went
How to Get the Most Out of a Career Fair
Spring means a lot of things across America but in hiring and educational circles it mostly means one thing – career fair season. There are
What Does a Candidate-Driven Jobs Market Mean for Employers?
In general, there are two types of job markets, a candidate-driven jobs market and an employer-driven jobs market. As it stands today, the United States
New Beginnings: A Poem from the FlexTrades Team
When one door closes, How long do we wait until another one opens? How long do we stall, our hands floating above the doorknob wondering
What is a Candidate-Driven Job Market & How Can You Leverage It?
In general, there are two types of job markets. The candidate-driven market The employer-driven market As it stands today, the United States is in a
Ten Most Common FAQs About Skilled Trades Careers
I’m a big advocate for the skilled trades in general, and manufacturing specifically. I spend a lot of time and energy to get in front
Fall Into Place: Workplace Tips for Success on the First Day
As the seasons change and life begins to settle in, we often think we need a change of scenery ourselves. Fall is one of the
National Working Parents’ Day – September 16th
As a working parent, a celebration for ‘Working Parents Day’ (I say with sarcastic air quotes) seems like extra work, because I know I’m the
What Your Accounting Department Wants You to Know
This week was National Payroll Week which is observed in recognition of all employees and the payroll professionals who pay them. These groups are put
International Update Your Resume Month
September is International Update Your Resume Month. Most careers require a resume as part of consideration for employment but too often people try to write
How One FlexTrades Project Engineer Significantly Reduced Machine Downtime
Finding experienced engineers can be a major challenge for manufacturers, especially in specialized fields like aerospace. Recently, an aerospace manufacturer reached out to us facing
FlexTrades Case Study: Accelerating Product Launches with Skilled CMM Programming
A leading manufacturer of motion controls was facing significant delays in launching their new product lines. The inability to complete orders on time was putting
FlexTrades Drives Cost Savings for Machinery Manufacturer
The Challenge A leading machinery manufacturing company was facing a significant production bottleneck due to increased orders. The Operations Manager, concerned about a potential backlog
How FlexTrades Saved a Pharmaceutical Manufacturer from Costly Delays
The Challenge: Meeting Production Demands with Staffing Gaps In the fast-paced world of pharmaceutical manufacturing, every second counts. Downtime is simply not an option, especially
Rapid Response to Critical Maintenance Needs in Global Manufacturing
FlexTrades provides reliable and timely solutions to meet the urgent maintenance needs of our clients. One such success story involves our collaboration with a global
FlexTrades Case Study: Flexible Workforce Solutions for Supply Chain Challenges
A prominent plastic manufacturer in the food and packaging industry experienced a significant surge in demand alongside a complex warehouse management system rollout across nationwide
FlexTrades Delivers Rapid Production Ramp-Up in Renewable Energy
A leading manufacturing company in the renewable energy industry faced a pressing need to increase production capacity. To achieve this goal, they required several highly
FlexTrades Case Study: Bridging Skill Gaps for Industrial Control Manufacturer
FlexTrades has a long-standing commitment to providing tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of our clients. One such success story involves our collaboration with
FlexTrades Engineers Impact Long-Term Growth
Enhancing Business Growth with Expert Engineering Solutions In a market increasingly driven by candidates, our client faced the dual challenge of unexpected staff attrition and
FlexTrades: Aerospace Case Study
Proficient Skillsets Lead to Monthly Output Increase An esteemed client in the aerospace sector was grappling with an extensive backlog amidst a constrained local market.
FlexTrades Machinists Resolved Aerospace Facility Backlog
One of our esteemed clients in American Aerospace manufacturing, renowned for their cutting-edge rockets and spacecrafts, faced a backlog due to a shortage of skilled
Transforming Production Challenges into Success Stories
FlexTrades is renowned for exceeding expectations, and our tradespeople embody this ethos in every project! Our commitment to addressing complex production challenges was recently showcased
Medical Device & Aerospace Client Success Stories
Our team recently concluded an extensive 18-month engagement with a client company specializing in manufacturing components for the medical and aerospace sectors. This client was
FlexTrades Tool & Die Technicians: A Success Story
FlexTrades recently assigned one of our skilled Tool/Mold Repair Technicians, Kelly, to assist a steel processing client. At the beginning of the assignment, the client
Plastic Packaging Industry Clients Fill Positions Rapidly with FlexTrades
One of our clients in the Plastic Packaging industry faced a substantial surge in demand, causing a significant backlog in their production. To address this
FlexTrades Delivers Specialized Injection Mold Technicians
FlexTrades collaborated with a manufacturer specializing in medical disposables used extensively in hospitals, encompassing a range of products such as IV kits, tubing, connectors, valves,
Case Study: Increased Productivity
Deploying Niche Skillsets Our client was located in the land of Oil & Gas. Their remote location combined with a lot of competition in the
Case Study: Tight Local Market Partner
Providing the Talent Needed for Production Success We have been partnering with this facility for the past four years by deploying our food experienced Machine
Case Study: Qualified Technicians to Fill the Gaps
Project Completed Ahead of Schedule with FlexTrades Tenured Technicians We recently deployed 10 of our Welders to an energy manufacturing facility to address a backlog
Case Study: Tight Deadlines Require High Skill
High Levels of Productivity, Project Completed Ahead of Schedule One of our Power Generation Production clients, won a major contract that required them to assemble
