The term “Fear Of Missing Out” or “FOMO” was coined two decades ago by author Patrick McGinnis. Most of us can relate to this feeling – we don’t want to miss out on new opportunities, exciting experiences, valuable information or meeting someone new. With smart phones and social media, it’s become easy to get constant updates from our friends and family, and we may fear not being in-the-know.

There are plenty of legitimate reasons to miss out occasionally, like getting sick, bad weather or natural disasters. But don’t get FOMO because you’re stuck in the office late at night trying to find the right candidate in a dry local market. Instead, choose FOMO 2.0: FlexTrades Over Missing Out!

Machinists

Did your company miss out on a big contract because you didn’t have enough CNC Operators to complete the order? We have exceptional CNC Machinists, even trainers like Dustin, ready to travel anywhere in the US. Don’t let training be the reason you miss out on business, choose FlexTrades Over Missing Out!

Maintenance

Did you miss Monday Night Football because you were trying to find a highly skilled Multi-Craft Maintenance Technician?  Whether you need help with machinery maintenance or general facility maintenance, we can help. Contact us and choose FlexTrades Over Missing Out!

PLC Programmers

Are you struggling to find a PLC Programmer for the new production cell you need running next month? Let us fill that gap for you today. Our technicians will travel anywhere in the US and will get you set up quickly. Check out our website and choose FlexTrades Over Missing Out!

A&P Maintenance, Assembly And Inspection

Did you miss your kid’s performance at school because you had to spend the weekend trying to fill 50 A&P Mechanic positions for a government contract? Our technicians regularly exceed expectations and help companies improve productivity. Don’t pass on a juicy contract because you can’t find local labor, choose FlexTrades Over Missing Out!

Any Position, Common or Niche

Have you missed family dinners because you just can’t find the right talent? Our bench of skilled technicians is wide and deep. Whether you need a few highly skilled engineers, a dozen motivated welders, or you have a single niche position, we can help. Let us tip the scales of your work-life-balance, choose FlexTrades Over Missing Out!

Conclusion

Unfortunately, we haven’t figured out how to stop a blizzard or hurricane from causing you to miss out on something. But if you choose FlexTrades Over Missing Out, you may be able to close your work computer and enjoy the things you love. 

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. The urgent requirement was for 50 specialized technicians, encompassing A&P Mechanics, Aircraft Assemblers and Aircraft Inspectors. In response to this critical demand, we deployed 50 of our highly qualified tradespeople. The proficiency and exceptional caliber of these technicians significantly enhanced the client’s operational capacity, resulting in a 10% increase in monthly output. This surge in productivity substantially expedited the backlog clearance, surpassing the client’s initial expectations.

Connect with us today to elevate your production capabilities. 

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 Machinists in the local market. In response, they engaged FlexTrades, initially anticipating the need for two technicians for their critical 8-week project. Remarkably, upon the arrival of the first Machinist from FlexTrades, the client was astounded by the exceptional productivity, expertise, and skill level demonstrated. This proficiency allowed them to achieve their production targets with just one specialist from FlexTrades, effectively streamlining their process.

Discover more about how we drive efficiency and expertise in aerospace manufacturing on our website. Click here to learn more. 

In an era where corporate social responsibility is gaining prominence, US manufacturing companies are stepping up to the plate, actively engaging in various charitable events and initiatives. These endeavors not only contribute to the betterment of society but also showcase the compassionate side of the manufacturing industry. Let’s explore some examples of American manufacturers making a positive impact beyond their production lines.

STEM Education Initiatives

Most manufacturing companies understand the importance of investing in the future workforce. To support education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), these companies participate in charitable events such as sponsoring robotics competitions, offering scholarships, or hosting educational workshops. By doing so, they not only contribute to the development of skilled professionals but also promote innovation within their industry.

Boeing is actively involved in promoting STEM education and workforce development. The company supports initiatives such as the Boeing Learning Together program, which focuses on providing resources and opportunities for students and educators in STEM fields. In 2021, Boeing made a record gift of $50M to Virginia Tech Innovation Campus which included funding programs for underserved K-12 students seeking to pursue STEM degrees and technology-related careers.

Disaster Relief Efforts

Manufacturing companies play a crucial role in disaster relief efforts. Whether it’s hurricanes, wildfires or other natural disasters, these companies often contribute by providing essential supplies, financial aid, and even temporary employment opportunities for affected communities. This rapid response showcases the industry’s commitment to supporting those in need during challenging times.

Coca-Cola has a history of contributing to disaster relief efforts globally. The company often provides financial assistance, donates beverages and collaborates with relief organizations to address the immediate needs of affected communities. In the wake of devastating wildfires in Maui earlier this year, Coca-Cola provided bottled water and $500,000 to the relief efforts.

Environmental Conservation Projects

Recognizing their impact on the environment, many manufacturing companies participate in charitable events focused on environmental conservation. This may involve tree-planting initiatives, beach cleanups or partnerships with organizations dedicated to sustainable practices. By taking proactive steps to mitigate their ecological footprint, these companies demonstrate a commitment to corporate sustainability and responsibility.

Johnson & Johnson, is dedicated to environmental conservation through its Healthy Future 2030 goals. The company aims to reduce carbon emissions, improve recycling efforts, and promote sustainable product design.

Employee-Driven Philanthropy

Many manufacturing companies encourage their employees to get involved in philanthropy. This can take the form of charity runs, fundraising events or volunteer opportunities organized by the company or initiated by passionate employees. By supporting and amplifying these efforts, manufacturing companies not only contribute to various causes but also foster a positive workplace culture centered around shared values and giving back.

At FlexTrades, one of our core values is to Give Back. Annual Polar Plunge events have been a FlexTrades employee mainstay for years, take a look at our recap of our 5th plunge in 2022. This year, we formally rolled out our Give Back Committee to support and magnify charitable efforts that individual employees are passionate about.

Veteran Support Programs

Some US manufacturing companies are actively involved in supporting veterans through charitable initiatives. This may include hiring veterans, providing job training programs, or partnering with organizations dedicated to improving the lives of those who have served in the military. These initiatives highlight the industry’s commitment to honoring and supporting the men and women who have sacrificed for our country.

Raytheon Technologies is actively involved in supporting veterans through its partnership with veteran-focused organizations. They work hard to help veterans with food security, access to education, career opportunities and more.

Community Outreach Programs

Many US manufacturing companies organize community outreach programs aimed at supporting local residents. This may involve partnerships with local charities, food banks, or shelters. Companies often donate both funds and employee volunteer hours to help address community needs. These initiatives strengthen the bond between manufacturers and their local neighborhoods, fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility.

Earlier this year, Toyota North America was recognized in The Civic 50 as a top community-minded company in the US for its commitment to social responsibility. The company has community engagement programs that focus on education, environmental sustainability and supporting local communities where they operate.

Conclusion

US manufacturing companies are proving that success in business can go hand in hand with a commitment to social responsibility. Through their participation in charitable events, these companies are making a meaningful impact on their communities, contributing to education, disaster relief, environmental conservation and more. As consumers increasingly value socially responsible businesses, these charitable endeavors not only benefit the recipients but also enhance the reputation and influence of the manufacturing sector as a whole. 

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 when we collaborated with a top agricultural equipment manufacturer. They had been facing significant difficulties for six months in recruiting onsite trainers with the necessary expertise, adversely affecting their production quality and leading to severe backlogs. Within just 10 days, FlexTrades was able to make a pivotal difference. We deployed Dustin, our exceptionally skilled CNC Trainer, who swiftly addressed their critical need for a proficient trainer.

The impact of Dustin’s involvement was significant, as articulated by our client: “Dustin went above and beyond, not only providing comprehensive wiring instructions for our machinery but also optimizing the work cell setup. He collaborated with our vendors to source superior tools for our operators and significantly improved the work area. This has greatly facilitated the training of new employees and enhanced overall productivity.” This feedback exemplifies the high standard of service and expertise that FlexTrades brings to every partnership. 

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 from your favorite companies, there’s a good chance some of that content was written using AI. In fact, in a recent survey, 57% of enterprise marketers reported using AI in email campaigns. A whopping 99% of those respondents reported that the results were either extremely or somewhat positive.

Why are you seeing this from a manufacturing services provider? Because every company out there needs to communicate with their target audience. Whether you’re a manufacturer who’s bidding to build components for a commercial airline, or a dog groomer looking for furry clients, you should always be looking for new ways to communicate.

There are AI tools for creating video and images, too, but this blog is intended to be a basic guide on how to get started and use ChatGPT for written communication.

Limitations With AI

Before you get started, it’s important to understand that there are limitations to these tools.

For instance, in ChatGPT, the data and knowledge are only as current as 2021. Any output should be thoroughly reviewed for technical accuracy before being used.

You will still need to create a prompt and tell the AI what type of content you are looking for. This part of human creativity may never be replaced.

Advantages to Using AI

AI can help you refresh or transform old content. For example, you could prompt AI to update your summer themed email campaign to instead have a winter or holiday theme.

If you need to target multiple audiences, AI can quickly help you rewrite content that is more appropriate and appealing to each audience.

If you experience “writer’s block,” ChatGPT could be used to generate new ideas or help write a tricky part of your content.

Getting Started

All you need to do is create a username and password on the ChatGPT website: chat.openai.com

The Prompt

This is the fun part! You can enter as much, or as little, information in your prompt as you want. If you add more details, context and specifics, the output will be closer to what you’re looking for. With each AI response, you can enter a new prompt to either continue a conversation or modify what was already generated.

I recommend you experiment with all sorts of prompts to get an idea of what you get out of it.

  • Ask a question: “How do I write the best email?”
  • Copy/paste content you already made and ask AI to change it: “Re-write this email with a Christmas theme” – or – “Re-write this blog in the voice of Stephen King.”
  • Request new content: “Write a safety-first post about pool parties on the 4th of July.”
  • Rewrite a prior response: “Rewrite that, but change X to Y and add Z.”

Below is a prompt that I entered in ChatGPT followed by the output that was generated. Before (or after) you read what ChatGPT generated, check out the original Top 7 Travel Essentials blog written without AI. Who did it better?

Example Prompt:

Write a blog about the “Top 7 Travel Essentials” for a FlexTrades technician. There should be a short introduction, a brief explanation of each of the 7 items and a short conclusion. Write in the voice of Eddie Murphy.

  1. Sleep essentials and comfy clothes
  2. Cooking Supplies
  3. Video Games
  4. Entertainment, Streaming, Movies, Music
  5. Laptop or Personal Computer
  6. Tools
  7. Pets

Unedited Output from ChatGPT Based on The Example Prompt

Eddie’s Guide to FlexTrades: The Top 7 Travel Must-Haves, Baby!

Hey, all you FlexTrades road warriors out there! It’s your main man Eddie, and I’m here to drop some knowledge on the essentials you gotta have in your arsenal for a smooth ride. We’re talking about the things that’ll make your travels as fly as a Saturday night in a leather suit. So buckle up, and let’s dive into the top 7 must-haves for every FlexTrades technician!

Sleep Essentials and Comfy Clothes:

First things first – you gotta catch those Zs in style! Get yourself a pillow that’s so plush, it’s like resting your head on clouds. Toss in some cozy blankets and comfy PJs, and you’ll be sleeping like a baby. Remember, a well-rested tech is a top-notch tech!

Cooking Supplies:

Ain’t nothing beats home-cooked goodness, even when you’re on the road. Pack yourself some pots and pans, like you’re the chef in a five-star kitchen. Whip up your own grub, and you’ll be living large while everyone else is stuck with fast food.

Video Games:

When the job’s done, it’s time to unwind, and what better way than with some video game action? Grab a console or load up your laptop with your favorite games. It’s like having your personal arcade wherever you go. Game on, baby!

Entertainment: Streaming, Movies, Music:

Keep the good times rolling with your own entertainment lineup. Subscribe to all the streaming services, stack up your favorite movies, and cue up the tunes that make you groove. Your downtime is your showtime, so make it count!

Laptop or Personal Computer:

In the tech world, your laptop is like your sidekick. Manage your projects, keep in touch with your peeps, and dive into the digital universe whenever you want. It’s your go-to gadget for both work and play – versatility at its finest!

Tools:

Now, we’re talking serious business. Every FlexTrades tech needs their tools. Don’t get caught slippin’ without your basic hand tools and whatever gear you need for the job. It’s your toolkit – the stuff that makes you the hero of the job site.

Pets:

Last but not least, bring in the squad – your furry companions. Pets ain’t just pets; they’re your ride-or-die buddies. Whether it’s a dog, a cat, or even a parrot, having your homie by your side makes every place feel like home sweet home.

Conclusion:

There you have it, FlexTrades family – Eddie’s rundown of the top 7 travel essentials. Load up on these goodies, and you’ll be hitting the road like a rockstar. Life’s an adventure, and with the right gear, you’ll be cruising through it in style. Stay cool, stay fly, and keep on FlexTradin’, my friends! 

Traveling, whether for leisure or work, is an integral part of modern life. Most of us are accustomed to the routine of airports, hotels and a daily work schedule. But there’s a glamorous side to travel that few get to experience. Whether you’re a “Swifty,” a Travis Kelce fan or you catch the occasional social media post, most of us are aware of Taylor Swift’s extensive travel.

In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between Taylor Swift’s jet-setting lifestyle and a FlexTrades technician’s work-related travels. FlexTrades’ skilled tradespeople have it as good, or better, than the average business traveler, but no one really compares to the biggest pop star in the world.

Mode of Transportation

Taylor Swift:

The pop sensation is no stranger to private jets and luxury transportation. Her travel style is characterized by comfort, privacy and efficiency. With the means to fly anywhere in the world at a moment’s notice, Swift’s journeys are undoubtedly smoother and more convenient than most. In July 2022, it was reported that all that flying was equal to 1,184 times the average person’s annual emissions!

Average Person:

For a FlexTrades technician, road trips and commercial flights are the norm. In October 2023 alone, our technicians traveled over 100,000 miles. That’s half the distance to the moon! Driving hundreds of miles, or dealing with ever changing airport security rules, is a shared experience that starkly contrasts with the luxury of private jets. At least as an average person, you can stop at the Biggest Ball of Twine or the Cadillac Ranch without being hounded by paparazzi.

Accommodations

Taylor Swift:

Five-star hotels, exclusive resorts and lavish accommodations are the singer’s home away from home. Swift enjoys the finest amenities and personalized services, ensuring her every need is met during her travels.

Average Person:

FlexTrades technicians always have single occupancy lodging and are booked into extended stay suites whenever possible. The extra space is great for relaxing after work, and the full kitchen can save you from ordering in, 0or eating out, every meal. Check out our series of “Lunchbox Hack” blogs for some great ideas on how to use that kitchen for lunch, too.

Travel Itinerary

Taylor Swift:

Swift’s travel itinerary revolves around world tours, glamorous events and high-profile appearances. Her schedule is meticulously planned, allowing for both work and leisure. From performing on grand stages to attending star-studded events, Swift’s travel is as much about the destination as it is about the journey.

Average Person:

Work-related travel for a FlexTrades technician typically involves working a shift, traveling to and from the facility and chatting with your Project Manager or Recruiter. The itinerary is structured around getting work done, but days off can be a mini vacation in a new place, as well. You can always find work/life balance, even on the road.

Packing and Wardrobe

Taylor Swift:

With the assistance of stylists and wardrobe managers, Swift’s travel wardrobe is undoubtedly curated to perfection. Her luggage likely consists of designer outfits, accessories and beauty essentials to ensure she always looks camera-ready.

Average Person:

A FlexTrades technician needs to bring work clothes, job specific PPE and a small handbag of basic hand tools. Anything large or specialty will be provided on site. The first blog of this series identified the top 7 travel essentials our technicians reported bringing. Most of the items on that list help life on the road feel a little more like home.

Conclusion

Despite the differences, most travel shares the common thread of exploration and adaptation to life on the move. Whether it’s a pop star’s glamorous world tours or a technician’s work-related travels, each journey offers its unique blend of challenges and discoveries. In the end, travel remains a dynamic and integral part of the modern experience, weaving stories and memories for those who embark on the journey, be it under the spotlight or in the shadow of an arc flash. 

Vehicle Manufacturing

Our manufacturing client requested that we supply 21 Welders and 7 Painters in response to a significant surge in demand for concrete mixers and garbage trucks. FlexTrades received a letter of commendation from them, highlighting that many of our welders not only met but exceeded the performance of their regular employees, achieving 120% of their weekly production targets.

Want to know more about our tradespeople? Click Here. 

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 grappling with a challenging local labor market and an expanding backlog of orders. In response, we deployed 50 of our skilled Machinists, CMM Operators, and Assemblers to assist in their clean room operations, ensuring that production targets were achieved. This support played a crucial role in bridging their workforce gap as they focused on recruiting and training permanent staff.

Want to learn more about us? Click Here. 

Whenever you travel, whether it’s for a long weekend or an extended three-month job assignment, the question always arises: “What do I bring?” FlexTrades’ technicians, who typically work on projects for three months at a time, have honed the art of packing over the years. To shed light on this, we recently conducted a survey of nearly 300 employees, asking them about their travel essentials.

Here’s a breakdown of the top seven travel essentials that our dedicated tradespeople never leave home without:

Sleep Essentials & Comfy Clothes

A good night’s sleep is the cornerstone of a safe and productive workday. Many of our technicians prioritize comfort and bring along familiar pillows, blankets, and sheets. Additionally, they pack cozy clothes like sweatpants, pajamas, and slippers to unwind and relax after a long day on the job.

Cooking Supplies

Whenever possible, we arrange extended stay suites for our technicians, complete with kitchenettes equipped with stoves, microwaves, and full-size refrigerators. Survey respondents seize the opportunity to cook their own meals by packing pots, pans, and utensils. Some even bring handy indoor grills like the Ninja or George Foreman, with a notable mention of the versatile Air Fryer.

Video Games

For leisure and relaxation, many of our technicians enjoy playing video games. They bring their gaming consoles or laptops to ensure they can pursue their favorite hobby while on the road. Compact devices like the Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck allow them to enjoy top-notch gaming experiences.

Entertainment, Streaming, Movies, Music

Having access to their preferred movies, TV shows, and music is another fantastic way to unwind. Technicians often bring devices like the Amazon Fire TV Stick or Roku to access their streaming services anywhere. Some opt to bring a Bluetooth speaker to enhance their music experience.

Laptop or Personal Computer

While smartphones are handy, sometimes a larger screen and keyboard come in handy. A laptop or personal computer offers versatility, allowing them to get work done, stay connected with loved ones, and enjoy video games and streaming.

Tools

All our technicians carry a small toolbox to perform their job, but some also bring tools for general maintenance of their equipment or for vehicle repairs in case of a roadside emergency. For instance, one respondent mentioned, “Enough tools to disassemble my truck if I need to.” Tradespeople are often mechanically inclined, and even if you’re not, basic maintenance skills can be a lifesaver, especially on the road.

Pets

Pets are a cherished part of our technicians’ lives. Coming home to their furry companions at the end of a long workday is a source of joy and comfort. Interacting with pets, whether it’s playing with a cat or walking a dog, is a wonderful stress reliever and morale booster. At FlexTrades, we recognize the importance of pets in our employees’ lives and offer pet insurance as one of our most popular benefits. Whenever possible, we also book pet-friendly accommodations for our technicians.

Conclusion

While these are the top seven travel essentials, there were numerous other items mentioned in the survey, including fishing and camping gear, musical instruments, and even 3D printers. The key takeaway is that traveling for work doesn’t mean you have to put your life on hold. Depending on your interests and hobbies, it can be an opportunity to experience them in new and exciting places.

Whether you’re just beginning your journey as a traveling worker or have been a seasoned road warrior for years, we hope this list provides you with ideas to enhance your time on the road.