Bryan Shaw, Author at FlexTrades

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 evolves, so do the challenges in finding and retaining skilled labor. FlexTrades, a leader in workforce solutions, has made it its mission to address these challenges head-on. Below, we explore the top five workforce challenges faced by manufacturers and how FlexTrades provides solutions that make a tangible difference.

1. Skills Gap in Manufacturing

The Challenge: With the rapid adoption of automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies, the skills required in manufacturing have changed significantly. Many workers lack the technical training needed to operate modern machinery or troubleshoot complex systems, creating a substantial skills gap.

How FlexTrades Solves It: FlexTrades connects manufacturers with a nationwide pool of highly skilled tradespeople, including CNC machinists, welders, maintenance technicians, and more. These professionals are pre-vetted and ready to contribute from day one, ensuring that companies have access to the expertise they need without lengthy training periods.

Learn more about how FlexTrades bridges the skills gap: FlexTrades Skilled Workforce Solutions.

2. Aging Workforce and Retirements

The Challenge: A large percentage of the manufacturing workforce is nearing retirement age, leaving a critical void in both leadership and hands-on expertise. Recruiting younger talent into these roles has proven difficult, as many perceive manufacturing as outdated or lacking career growth opportunities.

How FlexTrades Solves It: FlexTrades offers flexibility to manufacturers by providing a reliable pipeline of skilled tradespeople, ensuring operational continuity even as seasoned employees retire. Additionally, their emphasis on training and upskilling supports long-term workforce development, making manufacturing an appealing career choice for younger generations.

3. Geographic Labor Imbalances

The Challenge: Manufacturers in certain regions face significant challenges in recruiting due to a lack of skilled labor locally. For example, rural areas or regions without strong vocational training programs may struggle to attract the talent needed to maintain production schedules.

How FlexTrades Solves It: FlexTrades deploys skilled tradespeople nationwide, breaking down geographic barriers. Whether your facility is in a bustling metropolitan area or a more remote location, FlexTrades ensures that qualified professionals are available to meet your needs. Their 100% travel-ready workforce model allows manufacturers to overcome local labor shortages effectively.

4. High Turnover Rates

The Challenge: Turnover is costly, both in terms of time and money. When workers leave, manufacturers face disruptions in production, training expenses for replacements, and potential delays in meeting customer demands.

How FlexTrades Solves It: FlexTrades mitigates the impact of turnover by offering a flexible workforce solution. Companies can scale their teams up or down as needed without the overhead of permanent hires. FlexTrades’ workforce is experienced and reliable, minimizing the learning curve and ensuring that operations remain seamless even during periods of transition.

Explore more about FlexTrades’ scalable workforce solutions: FlexTrades Workforce Services.

5. Rising Costs of Recruitment and Retention

The Challenge: Recruiting and retaining skilled workers is expensive. Between job advertisements, recruitment agency fees, onboarding, and benefits, the costs quickly add up. Furthermore, retaining top talent requires competitive salaries and perks, which can strain budgets.

How FlexTrades Solves It: FlexTrades eliminates many of these costs by providing ready-to-deploy skilled workers without the need for extensive recruitment efforts. Their flexible employment model allows manufacturers to meet demand without the long-term financial commitment of traditional hires. By partnering with FlexTrades, companies can focus their resources on production and innovation rather than on recruitment.

The FlexTrades Advantage

FlexTrades is more than just a staffing company—it’s a strategic partner for manufacturers across the U.S. With a deep understanding of the challenges facing the industry, FlexTrades delivers tailored solutions that empower manufacturers to overcome obstacles and stay competitive.

From bridging the skills gap to addressing geographic labor shortages, FlexTrades is dedicated to supporting the manufacturing workforce and driving success for its clients.

Ready to Solve Your Workforce Challenges?

Partner with FlexTrades to ensure your manufacturing operations run smoothly and efficiently, no matter the challenges you face. Visit FlexTrades to learn more about their innovative workforce solutions and start a conversation today.

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. Behind the scenes, several major food manufacturers play pivotal roles in bringing those beloved dishes to our tables. Let’s take a closer look at five of these companies and the specialty items they produce that make our Thanksgiving celebrations so memorable.

Kraft Heinz: The Stuffing Masters

When it comes to Thanksgiving, Kraft Heinz is synonymous with Stove Top Stuffing. Introduced in 1972, this convenient stuffing mix has become a staple in many households. The manufacturing process begins with baking loaves of bread, which are then dried and cubed. These bread cubes are mixed with a blend of seasonings and herbs to create the signature flavor. Packaged for convenience, Stove Top Stuffing allows families to enjoy a delicious side dish with minimal preparation. In fact, the Kraft Heinz factory in Dover, Delaware, is a key production site for this iconic product, baking around 200,000 loaves of bread each day to meet the holiday demand.

Nestlé S.A.: The Pumpkin Pie Purveyors

No Thanksgiving is complete without pumpkin pie, and Nestlé’s Libby’s brand has been a trusted name for over a century. The journey from pumpkin patch to pie involves harvesting specially grown pumpkins, which are then cleaned, peeled, and pureed. This puree is canned and distributed nationwide, providing home bakers with a consistent and high-quality base for their pies. Libby’s works closely with family farms in Morton, Illinois, ensuring that the pumpkins are processed within hours of harvesting to maintain freshness and flavor.

Jennie-O Turkey Store: The Turkey Titans

As one of the leading turkey producers in the United States, Jennie-O Turkey Store ensures that millions of families have a succulent centerpiece for their Thanksgiving meal. The process begins with raising turkeys on farms where they are fed a balanced diet. Once they reach the appropriate size, the turkeys are processed, packaged, and shipped to retailers across the country. Jennie-O offers a variety of products, from whole turkeys to pre-seasoned roasts, catering to different preferences and cooking methods.

Butterball: The Turkey Talk-Line Heroes

Butterball is another heavyweight in the turkey industry, renowned not only for their products but also for their Turkey Talk-Line, a hotline that has been assisting home cooks with turkey preparation since 1981. Butterball’s turkeys are raised on farms and undergo a meticulous process to ensure quality. They offer a range of products, including fresh and frozen whole turkeys, as well as pre-cooked options for those seeking convenience. Their commitment to quality and customer support has made them a trusted name in Thanksgiving celebrations.

Cargill: The Cranberry Sauce Specialists

While Cargill is a global food corporation with a diverse portfolio, their contribution to Thanksgiving often comes in the form of ingredients used in cranberry sauce. Cargill supplies sugar and other components essential for crafting the sweet and tangy sauce that complements the savory dishes on the table. Their extensive supply chain ensures that manufacturers have the necessary ingredients to produce this holiday favorite, highlighting the interconnectedness of the food industry.

Making Memories

As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, it’s worth appreciating the intricate processes and dedicated efforts of these manufacturers. From the fields where pumpkins and turkeys are raised to the factories where stuffing mix is prepared, each step is a testament to the commitment to quality and tradition. So, as you enjoy your meal, take a moment to acknowledge the journey each dish has taken to become a part of your holiday celebration.

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 counts, every minute matters, and there’s no room for downtime. You need skilled, reliable people who don’t just show up… they get to work, making an immediate impact. That’s where FlexTrades comes in, ready to supply highly qualified manufacturing tradespeople who are prepared to keep production moving forward.

FlexTrades: Filling the Gap in Skilled Labor

Let’s face it. Skilled labor shortages are an ongoing challenge for manufacturers across the U.S. But FlexTrades has cracked the code to supply a flexible, skilled workforce that meets the unique needs of each facility. With a deep network of tradespeople trained in various fields like CNC machining, quality inspection, welding, and assembly, FlexTrades doesn’t just provide a warm body on the floor; they deliver expertise. This focus on quality and readiness is why many U.S. manufacturers are choosing FlexTrades as their go-to partner in skilled labor.

Why FlexTrades Works for U.S. Manufacturers

Manufacturing success depends on a reliable workforce, but traditional hiring processes can take too long, especially when production schedules are tight. Here’s how FlexTrades makes an immediate difference:

1. Fast, Tailored Workforce Solutions

FlexTrades understands that every plant, every project, and every production line has its own demands. They don’t just provide people. They supply experts with the right skills, ready to adapt to your specific processes and equipment on day one. Whether it’s specialized CNC operators or maintenance technicians, FlexTrades tailors its approach, delivering a workforce that fits seamlessly into your production flow.

2. Proven, High-Quality Talent Pool

When FlexTrades sends a technician to your facility, you know they’re qualified. These professionals aren’t just skilled. They’re vetted, experienced, and ready to handle everything from complex setups to precision inspections. Each FlexTrades worker has been carefully matched to meet your needs, reducing downtime and increasing productivity from the very start.

3. Cost Efficiency without Compromise

Imagine a solution that allows you to scale labor up or down as production demands change. FlexTrades provides this kind of adaptability without the time or expense of permanent hiring. With on-demand support across the U.S., they empower manufacturers to control labor costs while ensuring production goals are met, especially during peak seasons.

4. Day-One Readiness

FlexTrades’ skilled tradespeople are ready to get to work as soon as they step onto the floor. There’s no lengthy onboarding or extended training period needed. These professionals bring their expertise and reliability from the get-go. When production spikes, you don’t have the luxury of waiting, and with FlexTrades, you don’t have to.

Choosing FlexTrades Means Choosing a Partner in Progress

Working with FlexTrades isn’t just about filling jobs; it’s about building a relationship with a team that’s as invested in your success as you are. Their approach to providing skilled tradespeople goes beyond filling roles. It’s about keeping the gears of American manufacturing turning efficiently, safely, and successfully. For manufacturers who need fast, flexible, and skilled labor solutions, FlexTrades stands as a trusted partner ready to meet any production challenge.

Ready to see how FlexTrades can make a difference in your operations? Reach out today, and let’s keep America’s factories moving.

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 quiet. An unexpected illness had swept through, leaving half the elves unable to work. The conveyor belts slowed, the toy assembly lines halted, and stacks of unfinished gifts towered in every corner. Santa, for the first time in centuries, wasn’t sure they’d make it.

Mrs. Claus paced the floor, wringing her hands. “What will we do, Santa? We can’t let the children wake up to empty stockings!”

Santa furrowed his brow. He knew that traditional solutions wouldn’t cut it. The North Pole couldn’t just put out a “Help Wanted” sign and wait for elves to apply. He needed specialists… skilled tradespeople who could jump right into the action, no training required. That’s when the jolly man in red remembered something. A solution he’d heard about while reviewing his “Nice List” files. FlexTrades!

With a twinkle in his eye, Santa picked up his oversized red phone. He dialed FlexTrades directly and explained the situation: “I need workers, and fast! These toys won’t build themselves, and I’m down to the wire!”

The team at FlexTrades didn’t miss a beat. They quickly assessed Santa’s needs; precision toy-making, assembly line efficiency, and even sleigh repair (Rudolph had accidentally kicked a gear out of place during a test run). Within hours, skilled technicians were being dispatched to the North Pole to help save Christmas! Welders, machinists, electricians, and assemblers packed their toolboxes, ready to answer the North Pole’s urgent call.

The moment they arrived, the FlexTrades team got to work. There was no downtime and no ramp-up period. These tradespeople were ready to be productive from day one. As they donned their safety goggles and grabbed their tools, the workshop transformed from a scene of panic to one of bustling efficiency.

“Wow, I’ve never seen anyone assemble a teddy bear so fast!” remarked an astonished elf, as one of the FlexTrades workers expertly pieced together toys with precision and speed. The machinists fine-tuned the broken conveyor belts, the welders repaired the sleigh with a bit of extra holiday shine, and the assemblers tackled the mountain of toys as if they’d been working at the North Pole for years.

Santa, peering over his glasses, smiled as he watched the workers breathe new life into his workshop. “FlexTrades sure knows how to save Christmas,” he chuckled.

The FlexTrades team didn’t just stop at building toys. They helped optimize the entire production line, ensuring that Santa’s workshop could handle future demands without a hitch. Day after day, they worked tirelessly alongside the elves, until the very last gift was wrapped and loaded onto the sleigh. The air was filled with the sounds of sleigh bells, laughter, and the hum of perfectly running machinery.

On Christmas Eve, as Santa climbed into his newly reinforced sleigh, he gave a nod to the FlexTrades crew standing by. “You’ve saved Christmas,” he said, “and for that, I’m eternally grateful.”

With a hearty “Ho, ho, ho!” Santa took off into the night sky, his sleigh packed with gifts, the magic of Christmas restored. FlexTrades had proven that, whether it’s a holiday rush or a critical labor shortage, they’re the go-to solution for keeping things on track.

And so, thanks to FlexTrades, Christmas was a success. The children of the world woke up to find their stockings filled, and their trees surrounded by beautifully wrapped presents. The workshop was back to its merry self, and the elves, now healthy, were already prepping for next year’s festivities.

The moral of the story?

When it comes to crunch time, whether in the North Pole or a manufacturing plant, FlexTrades has the skilled workforce you need to save the day. And in this case, they saved Christmas, too!

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 U.S. manufacturers, this period can quickly reveal staffing gaps, resulting in a manufacturing labor crisis. Fortunately, FlexTrades is here to help. Our on-demand manufacturing staffing solutions are designed to meet the unique needs of manufacturers during the busiest time of the year. Whether you require skilled tradespeople for a few weeks or long-term support, FlexTrades can deliver the talent your team needs, exactly when you need it.

Why the End-of-Year Rush Affects Manufacturing Staffing

The holiday season often brings an influx of orders, and manufacturers are under pressure to keep up. Many teams are already operating at full capacity, leaving little room to handle surges in demand or unexpected labor shortages. Traditional skilled trades staffing models typically involve long hiring cycles, onboarding processes, and training, making it difficult for manufacturers to react quickly. This leads to missed deadlines, backlogs, and, in some cases, penalties or the loss of business.

FlexTrades Offers a Faster, More Efficient Solution

FlexTrades takes a different approach. Instead of relying on the traditional hiring process, we provide U.S. manufacturers with skilled tradespeople who are ready to work immediately. Our workforce is adaptable and expertly trained, which means they are able to hit the ground running from day one. This eliminates the need for lengthy onboarding, allowing your team to continue working seamlessly, even during critical periods. When you need skilled trade workers fast, FlexTrades delivers.

Deploying Talent Quickly During the Holiday Peak

Whether you need just one tradesperson or a full team of skilled workers, FlexTrades has the talent you need to meet your production goals. Our workers are sourced and vetted to ensure they are fully qualified for the tasks required. With FlexTrades, U.S. manufacturers avoid the cost and delay of a drawn-out hiring process. We ensure that your team receives contract labor support quickly, allowing you to meet deadlines, maintain quality, and prevent disruptions in operations.

Our Expertise in Manufacturing Support Services

FlexTrades is more than just a staffing provider. We understand the complexities of the manufacturing labor crisis, especially during the busy holiday season. We are experts in manufacturing support services, and our flexible approach means you can quickly scale your workforce up or down, depending on your needs. Whether you’re facing a surge in demand, an urgent project, or an unexpected labor shortage, FlexTrades can provide the solution.

Tailored Staffing to Fit Your Specific Needs

At FlexTrades, we take the time to understand your unique requirements. Our team works closely with you to ensure that we provide not only the right number of workers but also the right people with the right skills. This personalized approach ensures that you receive high-quality, productive employees who are able to contribute immediately. We are committed to helping you succeed by providing skilled labor exactly when you need it.

Preparing for the Year Ahead with FlexTrades

As you wrap up the year and look toward the future, FlexTrades is here to ensure that your operations run smoothly, no matter the challenges you face. By partnering with us, you can focus on meeting your production goals without worrying about the unpredictability of staffing. Let FlexTrades be your solution for filling the gaps in your workforce and keeping your business on track.

Why FlexTrades?

FlexTrades is the trusted partner for U.S. manufacturers facing labor shortages, especially during critical times like the holiday season. Our skilled trades staffing solutions are designed to meet your immediate needs with qualified, on-demand talent. Don’t let a manufacturing labor crisis hold you back during the busiest time of the year. Contact FlexTrades today, and let us help you meet your production goals with confidence.

Imagine this. You’re a key decision-maker at a bustling manufacturing company, and the pressure to meet production deadlines is mounting. You know that filling labor gaps is crucial, but the process of hiring, onboarding, and training internally feels like an endless, time-consuming battle. Sound familiar?

That’s where FlexTrades comes in.

The Reality of Internal Hiring

Let’s face it. You can spend thousands on internal hiring programs, pouring resources into recruitment efforts, background checks, interviews, and the like. But even after you find the “perfect” candidate, that’s just the start of the journey. There’s onboarding, training, and the inevitable ramp-up time before they become fully productive. And that’s if everything goes smoothly. Meanwhile, production slows, deadlines loom, and costs continue to rise.

The FlexTrades Advantage

Now imagine a different scenario. Instead of shouldering the burden of hiring internally, you partner with FlexTrades. From day one, we deliver fully vetted, highly experienced skilled tradespeople straight to your facility, ready to hit the ground running. These aren’t just any workers; they are top-tier professionals with the knowledge and expertise to make an impact right away.

No weeks of training. No guesswork. Just results.

FlexTrades’ Skilled Workforce: Ready to Rock from Day One

Our skilled tradespeople come prepped and ready, with years of industry-specific experience under their belts. That means no waiting for them to get up to speed because they already know what needs to be done. Whether you’re experiencing seasonal surges, facing an unexpected labor shortage, or expanding your operations, we provide the talent you need, when you need it.

And the best part? You avoid the headaches that come with traditional hiring. No dealing with the endless search for candidates, no worrying about onboarding processes, and no hidden costs that keep stacking up.

Focus on Growth, Not Hiring Woes

With FlexTrades, you get more than just bodies on the floor. You get a strategic partner. We take the heavy lifting off your shoulders so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business. Our tradespeople are flexible, reliable, and ready to adapt to the unique needs of your manufacturing facility. Plus, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that you’re backed by one of the industry’s most trusted workforce solutions providers.

In a world where time is money, partnering with FlexTrades saves both.

So why deal with the hassle and expense of internal hiring when a stress-free, efficient solution is right here? Get your production line moving at full speed with FlexTrades.

Recent reports from the Federal Reserve paint a concerning picture of the U.S. job market. Employment levels are not just stagnating; they’re declining in key sectors. Alongside this, there’s growing dissatisfaction among workers, particularly regarding pay. More individuals are seeking new opportunities, driven by the desire for better compensation and work-life balance. These factors contribute to a volatile labor market where businesses are struggling to maintain a stable and skilled workforce.

The Challenges Facing Employers

For businesses, the current landscape presents several challenges:

Labor Shortages: With declining employment levels, finding skilled workers to fill essential roles has become increasingly difficult. The competition for talent is fierce, and traditional hiring methods are no longer sufficient.
Increased Turnover: As dissatisfaction with pay and job conditions grows, companies are seeing higher turnover rates. This not only disrupts operations but also increases the costs associated with hiring and training new employees.
Operational Efficiency: Maintaining operational efficiency is harder than ever. With fewer workers available and those in place potentially less engaged, businesses are facing productivity declines and difficulties in meeting demand.

Why FlexTrades is the Solution

In this challenging environment, FlexTrades stands out as a vital partner for businesses looking to navigate the complexities of the current job market. Here’s how FlexTrades can help:

On-Demand Skilled Labor: FlexTrades specializes in providing on-demand access to a vast pool of skilled tradespeople and manufacturing talent. Whether you need welders, machinists, electricians, or other specialized roles, FlexTrades can rapidly deploy the right professionals to meet your needs.
Flexibility and Scalability: Unlike traditional workforce management models, FlexTrades offers unparalleled flexibility. You can scale your workforce up or down based on production needs, helping you manage labor costs more effectively. This adaptability is crucial in a market where labor availability can fluctuate.
Quality Assurance: FlexTrades doesn’t just provide workers; it provides top-tier professionals who have been thoroughly vetted and possess the expertise to excel in their roles. This ensures that your operations continue to run smoothly, even in the face of broader labor market challenges.
Retention and Stability: By partnering with FlexTrades, businesses can reduce turnover and maintain a more stable workforce. FlexTrades’ professionals are committed to their craft, and their focus on quality work means they are less likely to contribute to the dissatisfaction and turnover seen elsewhere in the job market.

The Path Forward

As the U.S. job market continues to evolve, businesses must adapt to survive and thrive. The challenges of today — labor shortages, increased turnover, and operational inefficiencies — require innovative solutions. FlexTrades offers exactly that — a reliable, flexible, and skilled workforce that can meet the demands of modern industry.

By partnering with FlexTrades, businesses can not only weather the current storm but also position themselves for long-term success. In a world where the only constant is change, FlexTrades provides the stability and expertise necessary to keep your business moving forward.

Contact our team today to learn more or to schedule a free consultation.

Imagine this: It’s the middle of a critical production run, and suddenly, one of your key machines goes down. You’ve got orders piling up, deadlines looming, and a workforce already stretched to its limits. In that moment, panic sets in — how will you get everything back on track without the skilled labor needed to fix the problem?

This scenario is all too common in the manufacturing world today, where labor shortages can disrupt operations and threaten profitability. But what if there was a way to prevent this? What if you could have a team of highly skilled tradespeople at your fingertips, ready to step in at a moment’s notice? That’s exactly where FlexTrades comes into play.

The FlexTrades Advantage

1. Immediate Access to Skilled Talent

When production deadlines loom and your current workforce is stretched thin, the last thing you need is a lengthy hiring process. FlexTrades provides immediate access to a vast network of skilled tradespeople. Whether you need welders, machinists, electricians, or other specialized roles, FlexTrades can rapidly deploy the right talent to keep your operations running smoothly.

2. Cost-Effective Workforce Solutions

Hiring full-time employees comes with significant overhead costs, including benefits, training, and administrative expenses. FlexTrades offers a more cost-effective solution by providing highly skilled workers on an as-needed basis. This flexibility allows you to scale your workforce up or down according to production demands, helping you manage labor costs more effectively.

3. Quality You Can Trust

With FlexTrades, you’re not just getting any worker — you’re getting top-tier professionals who have been thoroughly vetted and possess the expertise needed to excel in your industry. Our tradespeople are experienced, reliable, and ready to contribute from day one, ensuring that your production lines remain efficient and productive.

4. Minimized Downtime

In manufacturing, downtime can be costly. When critical roles go unfilled due to labor shortages, production slows down, and revenue can take a hit. FlexTrades helps you avoid these pitfalls by providing skilled workers who can step in quickly and seamlessly. With our on-demand talent pool, you can minimize downtime and keep your operations running at full capacity.

5. Tailored to Your Needs

Every manufacturing operation is unique, and so are its labor requirements. FlexTrades works closely with you to understand your specific needs and match you with the right talent. Whether you’re dealing with seasonal surges, unexpected vacancies, or specialized project requirements, FlexTrades provides a customized workforce solution that aligns with your goals.

Why Choose FlexTrades?

The answer is simple: FlexTrades offers unparalleled flexibility, quality, and cost-effectiveness in workforce management. By partnering with us, you gain a strategic advantage, ensuring that your manufacturing operations remain resilient in the face of labor challenges.

Ready to Solve Your Labor Challenges?

Don’t let labor shortages hold your business back. FlexTrades is here to provide the skilled workforce you need, exactly when you need it. Contact us today to learn more about how our on-demand talent solutions can help you maintain productivity and stay ahead of the competition.

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 people who quite literally build our world. Yes, we’re talking about National Tradesmen Day, which falls on Friday, September 20th this year. At FlexTrades, this day is extra special because skilled tradespeople aren’t just a part of our business… they are our business. Without them, the gears of industry would grind to a halt, and we’d all be in a world of hurt.

The Heartbeat of American Industry

Let’s get real for a second. When you flip on a light switch, drive across a bridge, or even sit down on a chair, do you ever stop to think about the folks who made that possible? Those are the skilled tradespeople — electricians, welders, machinists, carpenters — who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. They’re the ones who show up, rain or shine, to do the jobs that most of us wouldn’t even know where to start.

At FlexTrades, we’ve had the pleasure of working with some of the best in the business. These men and women are more than just workers; they’re artisans, engineers, problem-solvers, and innovators. And on National Tradesmen Day, we’re throwing every ounce of “proverbial confetti” we have in their honor.

The Coolest Facts About Skilled Trades (That You Didn’t Know)

Fun Fact #1: By 2028, skilled trades jobs are expected to grow by 10%. That means there’s never been a better time to be in the trades!
Fun Fact #2: The Hoover Dam, a modern marvel, was built by over 21,000 tradespeople who braved blistering desert heat to make it happen.
Fun Fact #3: Think you need a degree to be successful? Many skilled tradespeople earn six-figure salaries without enduring a single day of college debt. Now, that’s smart!

How FlexTrades Is More Than Just a Job Connection

Here at FlexTrades, we like to think of ourselves as matchmakers; not in the romantic sense, but in the “connecting awesome people with awesome opportunities” sense. We know that behind every job title is a person with dreams, goals, and a unique set of skills. That’s why we don’t just fill positions, we help skilled tradespeople find the right fit, the place where they can grow, thrive, and maybe even find a true work family.

Our team is passionate about making sure these unsung heroes get the recognition, and the opportunities, they deserve. Because let’s face it, without skilled tradespeople, our entire world would come to a standstill.

Let’s Make Some Noise for the Tradespeople!

So, how can you celebrate National Tradesmen Day? It’s simple. Give a shout-out to the tradespeople in your life. Maybe it’s your neighbor who’s an electrician, the carpenter who helped you build your dream kitchen, or the HVAC technician who keeps your home cool in the summer. These folks are the real MVPs, and they deserve all the praise we can give.

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 of the past decade. These gadgets and ideas make us wonder, “What were they thinking?” Let’s dive in.

1. The Juicero (2016)

Inventor: Doug Evans

Why It’s Bad: Imagine paying $400 for a juicer that requires Wi-Fi to function, only to find out you could achieve the same result by squeezing the juice packs with your bare hands. It’s the ultimate symbol of Silicon Valley’s knack for solving problems that don’t exist. Spoiler alert: it didn’t last long, but the memes will live forever.

2. Google Glass (2013)

Inventor: Google X (now X Development LLC)

Why It’s Bad: Ah, Google Glass—the gadget that made you look like a cyborg and alienated you from polite society. This wearable tech was supposed to make us all feel futuristic but ended up being an expensive way to invade privacy and get weird looks. If you wanted to be labeled a “Glasshole,” this was your golden ticket.

3. Hoverboards (2015)

Inventor: Shane Chen (original design)

Why It’s Bad: Hoverboards were the must-have gadget that promised to make us all look cool while zipping around town. Instead, they made headlines for spontaneously combusting and sending users flying. Banned from airlines and sidewalks alike, these rolling fire hazards turned a hot trend into a literal hot mess.

4. Samsung Galaxy Note 7 (2016)

Inventor: Samsung

Why It’s Bad: Samsung’s Galaxy Note 7 was the explosive device you didn’t want in your pocket. With batteries prone to catching fire, it was more likely to land you on a no-fly list than help you multitask. The recalls and bans turned this “must-have” gadget into an infamous pyrotechnic display.

5. Amazon Fire Phone (2014)

Inventor: Amazon

Why It’s Bad: Amazon’s Fire Phone had all the gimmicks and none of the substance. It boasted 3D visuals and a dedicated button for Amazon shopping, but lacked essential apps and usability. It’s a classic case of trying too hard to be different and ending up on the clearance rack.

6. Theranos (2003-2018)

Inventor: Elizabeth Holmes

Why It’s Bad: Theranos promised to revolutionize healthcare with just a drop of blood. Instead, it delivered one of the biggest frauds in Silicon Valley history. Faulty tech and deceit put patients at risk and turned its founder into a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition.

7. Oombrella (2016)

Inventor: Wezzoo

Why It’s Bad: The Oombrella was marketed as a “smart” umbrella that could notify you of weather conditions. Apparently, checking your phone was too much effort. It was an overpriced, over-engineered gadget that solved a non-existent problem. Thanks, but I’ll stick to my regular old dumb umbrella.

8. Quibi (2020)

Inventor: Jeffrey Katzenberg and Meg Whitman

Why It’s Bad: Quibi aimed to change the way we consumed media with short, mobile-focused videos. Despite a high-profile launch, the lack of compelling content and the audacity to charge for something we get for free on YouTube led to its rapid demise. It was a billion-dollar idea that flopped faster than its 10-minute episodes.

9. Kohler Numi Toilet (2018)

Inventor: Kohler

Why It’s Bad: The Numi is a toilet that costs over $6,000 and comes with features like a heated seat, foot warmer, and built-in speakers. While it might be the throne of your dreams, most people found it ridiculously overpriced for a place to do their business. It’s a royal flush of money down the drain.

10. Jibo Robot (2017)

Inventor: Cynthia Breazeal

Why It’s Bad: Jibo was designed to be your friendly home robot. Despite its charming personality, it couldn’t do much beyond turning its head and making small talk. For its hefty price tag, you’d expect a lot more functionality. Instead, it quickly became a fancy paperweight with a cute face.

That’s a Wrap

And there you have it—the crème de la crème of American ingenuity gone awry. These inventions remind us that not every idea is a winner, and sometimes, even the best intentions can lead to the most spectacular failures. Here’s to hoping the next decade of innovation brings us fewer flops and more triumphs. Remember, folks, if at first you don’t succeed, maybe check if your invention really needs Wi-Fi. Until then, we’ll be here, ready to laugh at the next big flop.

1. Skills Gap in Manufacturing

2. Aging Workforce and Retirements

3. Geographic Labor Imbalances

4. High Turnover Rates

5. Rising Costs of Recruitment and Retention

The FlexTrades Advantage

Ready to Solve Your Workforce Challenges?

Kraft Heinz: The Stuffing Masters

Nestlé S.A.: The Pumpkin Pie Purveyors

Jennie-O Turkey Store: The Turkey Titans

Butterball: The Turkey Talk-Line Heroes

Cargill: The Cranberry Sauce Specialists

Making Memories

FlexTrades: Filling the Gap in Skilled Labor

Why FlexTrades Works for U.S. Manufacturers

Choosing FlexTrades Means Choosing a Partner in Progress

Why the End-of-Year Rush Affects Manufacturing Staffing

FlexTrades Offers a Faster, More Efficient Solution

Deploying Talent Quickly During the Holiday Peak

Our Expertise in Manufacturing Support Services

Tailored Staffing to Fit Your Specific Needs

Preparing for the Year Ahead with FlexTrades

Why FlexTrades?

The Reality of Internal Hiring

The FlexTrades Advantage

FlexTrades’ Skilled Workforce: Ready to Rock from Day One

Focus on Growth, Not Hiring Woes

The Challenges Facing Employers

Why FlexTrades is the Solution

The Path Forward

The FlexTrades Advantage

Why Choose FlexTrades?

Ready to Solve Your Labor Challenges?

The Heartbeat of American Industry

The Coolest Facts About Skilled Trades (That You Didn’t Know)

How FlexTrades Is More Than Just a Job Connection

Let’s Make Some Noise for the Tradespeople!

1. The Juicero (2016)

2. Google Glass (2013)

3. Hoverboards (2015)

4. Samsung Galaxy Note 7 (2016)

5. Amazon Fire Phone (2014)

6. Theranos (2003-2018)

7. Oombrella (2016)

8. Quibi (2020)

9. Kohler Numi Toilet (2018)

10. Jibo Robot (2017)

That’s a Wrap

Follow us