FlexTrades Marketing Team, Author at FlexTrades

At FlexTrades, we’re in the business of solving problems. That means we ask a lot of questions — and we answer a lot of them, too.

One of the most common questions we get from clients, technicians, and new recruits is about IPC standards. What are they? Why do they matter? And what do all those numbers and letters mean?

Let’s clear it up.

What Is IPC?

When most people say IPC, they’re referring to IPC International, Inc. But that wasn’t always the name.

Back in 1957, six printed circuit board manufacturers came together to form the Institute of Printed Circuits. Their mission? To set shared standards, push industry innovation, and eliminate the kinds of supply chain headaches still common today.

As the industry grew beyond PCBs, so did IPC. In 1999, the group expanded to include all of electronics manufacturing. That expansion came with a name change — The Institute for Interconnecting and Packaging Electronic Circuits. Eventually, that mouthful became IPC International, Inc.

Today, IPC is the organization responsible for setting the standards that govern electronics manufacturing. That includes the way PCBs are developed, tested, inspected, and assembled. And that’s where J-STD-001 and IPC-A-610 come in.

What Is J-STD-001?

You’ll often hear this called J-Standard for short. The official name is IPC J-STD-001H, and it’s a critical global standard in electronics manufacturing.

It outlines the process requirements for soldered electrical and electronic assemblies, including everything from the materials used to how assemblies are tested and inspected. The standard emphasizes process control — meaning it’s not just about the end product, but how you get there.

If you’re working in PCB assembly, soldering, or inspection, you’ll likely need J-STD-001 certification. It verifies that your processes meet industry expectations for quality and repeatability.

What Is IPC-A-610?

This one is often shortened to IPC-610, but the full name is IPC-A-610 Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies.

Where J-STD-001 focuses on how electronics are built, IPC-610 focuses on how they’re judged. It defines what an acceptable finished product looks like and qualifies people to perform that final inspection.

If you’re certified to IPC-A-610 standards, you’re trained to assess the quality and acceptability of PCBs based on IPC-defined criteria.

Together, IPC-610 and J-STD-001 create a comprehensive system: build to the standard, inspect to the standard, certify to the standard.

Want to Learn More?

There are dozens of additional IPC standards, far too many to cover here. But if you’re interested, you can explore the full list to learn more about each certification and what it covers.

Are You Certified in J-STD-001 or IPC-610?

FlexTrades is always looking for experienced technicians with IPC certifications. If you’ve got the credentials, join our Talent Network and get connected with projects that match your skills.

Got a Question We Haven’t Covered Yet?

We want to hear it. Send your questions to writingteam@flextrades.com and we just might answer it in a future blog post.

Steel is everywhere. Look around.

Buildings. Bridges. Safety rails. Brackets. Cars. Trains. Sinks. Surgical tools. Jewelry. Even the scissors in your kitchen drawer.

It’s one of the most widely used materials on the planet, yet few people ever stop to ask the obvious question — where does steel actually come from?

Let’s walk through it.

Step 1: Turn Raw Materials into Molten Metal

It starts with iron ore, mined from the ground.

But iron ore on its own isn’t enough. It needs to be reduced, and that’s where coke comes in. Coke is created by crushing coal, then carburizing it at high temperatures in a furnace without oxygen. What you get is a carbon-rich, rock-like material that looks like small black chunks.

Add the coke, the iron ore, and some limestone to a blast furnace. That’s where the transformation happens.

Superheated air is blown into the base of the furnace, igniting a combustion reaction. The result? Molten pig iron. (Fun fact: it takes about 1.5 tons of iron ore to make just 1 ton of steel.)

The limestone helps remove impurities like silicon dioxide — the stuff you’d find in sand and rock.

Technically, pig iron isn’t quite iron or steel. But it’s the bridge between the two.

Step 2: Convert Pig Iron to Steel

Once the pig iron is molten, it’s transferred by ladle to another furnace.

There, it’s combined with scrap steel in one of two systems:

Basic oxygen furnaces, which blast high-pressure oxygen into the metal to burn off impurities
Electric arc furnaces (EAFs), which melt scrap instead of ore — a more sustainable method, though it can yield lower-grade steel

By this point, the transformation is complete. Molten steel is born.

Step 3: Shape It with Continuous Casting

Ladles transfer the molten steel into tundishes, which feed into a continuous caster.

The caster shapes the metal as it cools, forming it into things like:

Ingots
Blooms
Billets
Slabs

These are all known as semi-finished products — not ready for use, but ready for what comes next.

Step 4: Roll It Out

Next, the steel passes through rolling mills, where it’s processed into usable forms:

Steel plates
Coils
Rods
Bars

If the steel is rolled while hot, it’s called hot rolled steel. If it’s done after cooling, you get cold rolled steel, which is stronger and has a smoother finish.

Step 5: Final Touches

The last step is finishing.

Depending on the end use, that might include:

Pickling
Coating
Tinning
Annealing
Tempering
Cutting
Slitting
Coiling
Packing

Each of these changes the performance or appearance of the steel before it heads off to do its job in the world.

Want to see how it all works? Check out this video and article from the American Iron and Steel Institute.

Bonus Resources

If this kind of thing sparks your interest, FlexTrades has a whole archive of How It’s Made content. It’s worth the scroll.

Manufacturing has evolved through four industrial revolutions, and with each shift, machines have played a central role in shaping how things get made. Among them, the metal working mill has quietly remained a constant.

It doesn’t get as much historical attention as the lathe, but the mill has earned its place — not just in factories, but in the foundation of modern production itself.

Eli Whitney and the Birth of the Mill

The story of the mill begins in the late 1700s, when clockmakers used crude versions to cut balance wheels. But it wasn’t until 1818 that the United States could truly call the milling machine its own. That credit goes to Eli Whitney.

You probably know Whitney as the inventor of the cotton gin. What you might not know is what came next.

Facing the threat of war with France, the U.S. government began offering contracts for mass musket production. At the time, muskets were handmade, and that meant each one was slightly different. No interchangeable parts. No inventory system. No consistency. Whitney saw the flaw. And he saw the fix.

He began designing machine tools that could create musket components with identical size, shape, and function. These tools would allow parts to be mass-produced, stored, and swapped. That vision led to the milling machine — and, more importantly, to the production system we still rely on today.

In 1801, he presented this system to President-elect Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson was impressed. And with that vote of confidence, Whitney began manufacturing arms with his new technology, eventually passing the business to his son in Hamden, Connecticut.

Evolution Through the Revolutions

Milling machines didn’t stop evolving with Eli Whitney.

In 1867, American engineer Joseph R. Brown debuted a universal milling machine at the Paris Exhibition. It was a leap forward in precision and capability. Then in 1936, Rudolph Bannow improved the design even further. He believed mills should offer more movement and access — allowing tools to approach a part from multiple angles with less manual repositioning.

Bannow’s invention became the Bridgeport milling machine. It was revolutionary. And even now, many U.S. manufacturers still use Bridgeports in their shops.

But as game-changing as the Bridgeport was, it’s still manual. And with the rise of automation, software, and digital control systems, milling machines have taken another leap — this time into CNC.

But that’s a story for another day.

FlexTrades exists to solve problems for American manufacturers. That’s our purpose. But solving real problems means asking hard questions. And sometimes, answering them.

One of the questions we hear most often from job seekers and clients alike is this:

What is ITAR, and why should I care?

Let’s break it down.

Understanding ITAR

ITAR stands for International Traffic in Arms Regulations. These are federal laws enforced by the U.S. government. They exist to protect national security by controlling who has access to defense-related products, data, and services.

If you build, supply, or support anything tied to military use — directly or indirectly — you’re in ITAR territory. That includes primary manufacturers, vendors, and even subcontractors in the supply chain.

Being ITAR compliant isn’t just a title. It means implementing safeguards to restrict access to sensitive materials and systems. It means following strict rules to prevent foreign nationals from accessing defense-related information. It means recertifying every year.

And if your company operates across borders? It means navigating some serious complexity — across documentation, digital access, hiring practices, and more.

What ITAR Means for Job Seekers

If you’re applying for a position at an ITAR-compliant company, there’s one thing you’ll need: proof of ITAR eligibility.

That usually includes two forms of government-issued ID, with at least one containing your photo. Requirements vary, but the company will tell you exactly what to provide. If you’re curious, here’s an example list of acceptable documents used for defense conference access.

This isn’t red tape. It’s law. And it’s important.

Still Curious About ITAR?

Want a deeper dive? The U.S. government offers detailed guidance on ITAR — who it applies to, what it regulates, and how compliance is maintained.

And if you’re new to the FlexTrades blog, stick around. We’ve got more answers where this came from.

Want to Work With Us?

If you’re a recent tech school graduate, consider the FlexTrades ReTool Program. It’s designed to help people like you get real-world experience that leads to a real career.

Already have experience? Join our Talent Network to see current opportunities and get matched with the right projects.

Got a Question of Your Own?

We want to hear it. Send your questions to writingteam@flextrades.com. Who knows — maybe your question will inspire our next blog post.

Let me take you back to my childhood living room. Picture it with me: a couch, a loveseat, a floor model television, a console table, and a lamp or two. Pretty standard. But one thing stood out. Sitting on the console shelf was a kaleidoscope. I’m not sure where my mom found it (or why she bought it), but I loved that thing. I’d pick it up, hold it to my eye, and slowly turn the end, mesmerized by the changing patterns and bursts of color. Back then, I thought it was magic. Now I know better—but it’s no less fascinating.

Kaleidoscope Components

Kaleidoscopes are built from simple components that come together in a surprisingly scientific way. At one end of the tube is an eyepiece, at the other, an end cap. Inside are two or three mirrors placed at precise angles to form a V or triangle. Most kaleidoscopes include small, everyday objects inside—beads, ribbons, bits of glass, buttons, or glitter—housed in thin transparent cells made of glass or plastic. The magic? It’s all in the angles and light.

Kaleidoscope Science

Here’s how it works. Light enters the kaleidoscope and travels in a straight line. When it hits a surface, it reflects. That reflection is where the visual show begins. Mirrors bounce light back and forth, while the objects scatter and refract that light in different directions. The result is a continuous, evolving display of color, shape, and symmetry. Think of it as a mini laser light show controlled entirely by what’s inside the tube—and your imagination.

Kaleidoscope Fun

Because the objects inside the kaleidoscope move freely, you’ll never see the same image twice. That’s part of the magic. Every slow twist of the end cap reveals a new scene, never to be repeated. So the next time you find one, take your time. Look closely. Rotate slowly. And take in the simple wonder of it all.

Want more articles like this? Check out FlexTrades’ blog for other interesting insights on how everyday things are made.

The history of manufacturing is an interesting one. While many people understand it through the lens of the four industrial revolutions, there is so much more to the story. One of the most enduring pieces of that story is the lathe—a machine tool that predates every industrial revolution and continues to evolve to this day.

The Ancient Origins of the Lathe

Archaeological digs show that lathes were in use as early as the 13th century BCE. Ancient Greek, Assyrian, and Egyptian woodworkers used early versions of the lathe, though it required two operators. One person would spin the piece of wood using a rope while the other shaped it with a cutting tool.

Even thousands of years ago, craftsmen were building the foundation of modern manufacturing.

Lathe Innovations in the Roman Era

The Romans and other early cultures in Northern Italy, China, and what is now Turkey made some key upgrades to the original lathe design. The biggest innovation? A foot pedal. When pressed, the pedal spun the workpiece, allowing a single operator to do the job.

Efficiency increased. Output grew. And so began a long journey of continuous improvement.

The First Industrial Revolution: Powered Turning

Fast forward to the early 19th century and the arrival of steam power. During the First Industrial Revolution, inventors found a way to attach steam engines and water wheels to lathes. This allowed the workpiece to spin much faster than before. With higher speeds came greater precision and the ability to produce more uniform parts.

The Second Industrial Revolution: Metal Takes the Stage

By the late 1800s, powered lathes featured electric motors and forged tooling. These upgrades allowed lathes to cut metal, not just wood. That development turned the lathe into one of the most versatile machine tools in history.

What was once a tool for craftsmen now became a cornerstone of industrial-scale production.

Industry 3.0 and 4.0: The Rise of the CNC Lathe

Every industrial revolution changed the lathe—and the third and fourth were no exception. As computers and automation became central to manufacturing, the lathe evolved once again into the CNC lathe.

CNC stands for computer numerically controlled. These machines are programmed to operate automatically with minimal intervention. They can execute precise cuts on complex parts at high speeds and with incredible consistency.

Want to dive deeper into how CNC machines work? Check out our article on CNC machinery here.

From Rope to Code

The story of the lathe is also the story of manufacturing. With each revolution came a new level of innovation. What started as a two-person wooden tool has become a computer-controlled system shaping the future of production. At FlexTrades, we believe in honoring that history while helping our technicians and clients stay prepared for what comes next.

Do you remember learning about the Industrial Revolution as a kid? History books often describe it as a single, world-changing event that reshaped economies, societies, and the future of manufacturing. While that is true, it is also incomplete.

There have been four distinct industrial revolutions so far, and we are already seeing the fifth take shape. Each wave has redefined how we work, what we build, and where we’re headed next. At FlexTrades, understanding this evolution matters—not just because it’s history, but because it helps us prepare for the future.

Let’s walk through each phase.

Industry 1.0: The Mechanical Revolution

Industry 1.0 began around 1784 and introduced the world to steam power. Steam wasn’t new, but its industrial application changed everything. With powered tools, steamships, and railroads, the shift from farming to urban factory life began. Rail travel opened up new regions. Factories created new jobs. People began migrating to cities for work. This marked the first major transformation of labor and manufacturing.

Industry 2.0: The Mass Production Revolution

Around 1870, speed became the next big goal. Electricity, gasoline engines, telephones, and assembly lines ushered in an era of mass production. This was the age of industrial scale, where the modern manufacturing model took shape.

We also got our first taste of global connectivity—radios allowed ideas to travel faster than ever, while lighting and telecommunication extended work hours and workplace reach. The foundation for modern society was set.

Industry 3.0: The Digital Revolution

In 1969, the rise of semiconductors, computers, and the Internet marked the start of Industry 3.0. Known as the Digital Revolution, this phase changed how we made things, how we worked, and how companies managed their operations.

Production became more precise. Global supply chains expanded. Analog became digital. Curious what that really means? This Analog vs. Digital Electronics article breaks it down clearly.

Industry 4.0: The Intelligence Revolution

We are living through Industry 4.0 right now. This phase centers around Artificial Intelligence and its wide-reaching applications. From autonomous vehicles to robotic automation, predictive analytics, 3D printing, and virtual assistants, we are reshaping how we design, produce, and deliver goods.

This revolution is far from over. If you’re interested in a deeper dive, check out this detailed Industry 4.0 overview to learn more about what it is, how it works, and what comes next.

Industry 5.0: The Human-Centered Revolution

We are just beginning to step into Industry 5.0. What sets it apart is its emphasis on human-machine collaboration. The goal is to ensure technology serves not just businesses, but also employees, communities, and the environment.

While the exact definition is still evolving, one thing is clear: inclusion, sustainability, and human value creation will drive this next industrial chapter. At FlexTrades, we’re excited to see what’s ahead—and we’re preparing our workforce to grow with it.

From commuter sedans to long-haul trucks, tires are essential to everyday life. At FlexTrades, our skilled technicians travel across the country to support U.S. manufacturers — and many of them drive thousands of miles to reach their assignments. So when it comes to the reliability of tires, we don’t take it lightly.

In fact, we support several leading tire manufacturing clients nationwide, providing the talent that helps keep production lines rolling. That’s why, in this edition of How It’s Made, we’re exploring the process behind the rubber that meets the road.

Tire Materials

Tire manufacturing starts with a mix of natural and synthetic materials, blended for strength, flexibility, and durability.

Natural Rubber
Synthetic Rubber / Polymers
Steel Wire: Used in belts, beads, and truck tire plies
Textile Cords: Provide structural support within plies
Fillers: Carbon black and silica, used to reinforce rubber during the Banbury mixing process
Antioxidants & Antiozonants: Protect the rubber from heat, oxygen, and ozone damage
Curing Additives: Sulfur and zinc oxide, key ingredients during vulcanization

Rubber Manufacturing Process

There are three key operations used to prepare rubber for tire building:

Banbury Mixing: Raw and synthetic rubbers are mixed with fillers under heat and pressure to form solid, workable rubber
Extruding: Shapes the rubber into usable forms
Calendering: Layers rubber with fabric or steel to create belts, plies, and edge covers

Once processed, the material is cut, sheared, spliced, or shaped to exact specifications — ready for tire construction.

Tire Components

Every tire is made of multiple layers, each with a specific purpose:

Innerliner: Keeps air sealed inside the tire
Plies: Provide strength and hold air pressure
Bead: Ensures an airtight seal with the wheel
Sidewall: Protects the structure from road and curb damage
Belts: Add strength to the tread and improve performance
Tread: Provides grip, traction, and durability

How Tires Are Made

The tire-building process happens in two stages on highly specialized machinery, such as:

Tire Building Machine (TBM)
Tire Assembly Machine (TAM)
Tire Forming Machine (TFM)
1st and 2nd Stage Machines

These may be manually operated or fully automated depending on the facility.

Stage One: Casing Building

This step forms the base structure of the tire — also called the carcass. It includes:

Wrapping the innerliner onto the drum
Layering body plies over the innerliner
Placing the beads at each side
Inflating the drum bladder to shape the plies over the beads
Adding and pressing sidewalls into place

Stage Two: Tread & Belts Application

The carcass moves to a second machine where steel belts and tread are added. At this point, it’s known as a green tire — shaped but not yet cured or hardened.

Curing the Tire

The green tire is placed into a curing mold, which functions like a large clamshell. A bladder inside the mold inflates with steam, pressing the rubber into the mold to form the tread pattern and sidewall lettering.

Passenger tires cure for 10–15 minutes at 300°F
Heavy-duty or off-road tires may cure for 24 hours

Once cured, the tire is cooled on a Post-Cure Inflator (PCI) to stabilize its shape before inspection.

Inspection & Testing

Every tire undergoes strict quality control to ensure safety and performance.

Tire Uniformity Testing: Measures balance and roundness under simulated road conditions
X-Ray Testing: Detects internal flaws
Destructive Testing: Verifies structural limits under extreme stress

After passing all inspections, the tire is ready for the road.

For a closer look, watch this Tire Manufacturing Video. And if you’re curious about tire care, check out our article on safe driving and tire maintenance.

Safe travels!

The pandemic disrupted the global workforce in ways few could have predicted. Now, as industries rebound and evolve, many workers are rethinking their future — and if you’re one of them, it might be time to consider a career in manufacturing.

At FlexTrades, we believe in the power of skilled trades to provide growth, advancement, and long-term stability. One of the most promising career paths in this space is in CNC machining and programming — a field with strong demand, competitive wages, and clear opportunities for advancement.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, here’s how you can carve out your path to becoming a CNC Programmer, starting from the ground up.

Step One: CNC Operator

Getting started doesn’t require decades of experience. Here are three common ways to launch your CNC career:

Go Back to School: Enroll in a technical or trade school with an accredited Machine Tool or CNC Manufacturing Technology program. You’ll build a strong foundation in both theory and hands-on skills — including safety, print reading, machining techniques, and quality control.

Become an Apprentice: An apprenticeship with a local manufacturer gives you real-world experience. Whether it’s short-term or leads to full-time work, make the most of it by learning everything you can and building relationships.

Start Entry-Level: Find a nearby manufacturer using CNC equipment. Even if they’re not hiring operators, apply anyway. Be willing to start in another role and work your way up. Express your long-term interest in CNC from the start.

Once you’re in, show up, speak up, and keep learning. The manufacturing floor rewards initiative and consistency.

Step Two: CNC Machinist

As a CNC Operator, your job is to load materials, run the machine, monitor operations, and inspect finished parts. But when you’re ready to step up, your goal is to become a CNC Machinist — someone who sets up and configures machines for each new job.

To make that move:

Ask questions and learn from your team — coworkers, leads, supervisors, anyone who’s done the job before
Observe setups, take notes, and look for opportunities to shadow
Do your research. Understand the steps involved in setups and study tooling and processes
Request hands-on training and be proactive when a gap appears
Pursue certifications from organizations like NIMS to solidify your credentials

When a skilled machinist retires or advances, be ready to step in. Let your leaders know you’re prepared and committed.

Step Three: CNC Programmer

Programming is where art meets precision. To reach this level, build on everything you’ve already done — and take it further.

To become a CNC Programmer:

Master G & M Code — it’s the core language of CNC operations
Study CNC tooling to understand what tools to use, when, and why
Consider buying your own seat in CAM software like Mastercam or Fusion 360 to practice at home
Enroll in a CNC Programming course at a local technical school
Take advantage of online training options — many software vendors offer detailed, video-based instruction (like Mastercam University)

The more you learn, the more valuable you become — not just as a programmer, but as a problem-solver and leader on the floor.

Keep Growing with FlexTrades

Once you’re a skilled CNC Programmer, your path doesn’t end. The world of advanced manufacturing is constantly evolving, and so are the machines, materials, and software behind it.

That’s where FlexTrades comes in.

As a CNC Operator, Machinist, or Programmer working with FlexTrades, you’ll get to travel the country, work on cutting-edge equipment, and gain exposure to new technologies across industries. You’ll sharpen your skills and expand your experience while helping American manufacturers grow.

Just starting out but recently graduated from a technical school? Join the FlexTrades ReTool Team. We help new grads get hands-on experience that complements classroom learning and sets you up for long-term success.

In Minnesota, we like to say we have 11 seasons — not four. They are:

Winter
Fool’s Spring
Second Winter
Spring of Deception
Third Winter
Mud Season
Actual Spring
Summer
False Fall
Second Summer
Actual Fall

Right now, we’re somewhere between Actual Spring and Summer, which means shelves are stocked with bug spray, sunglasses, and (of course) sunscreen. That got us thinking… how is sunscreen made?

Let’s break it down in this month’s How It’s Made feature.

What Does Sunscreen Do?

The sun emits three types of light: infrared, visible, and ultraviolet (UV). UV light is the most harmful to humans. There are two types of UV rays:

UVA: Can penetrate deep into the skin, damaging cells and the immune system
UVB: Can burn the outer skin and contribute to skin cancer

Sunscreen helps by either blocking UV rays or absorbing them before they penetrate the skin. To do this, sunscreen includes active ingredients such as:

Titanium Dioxide
Zinc Oxide
Avobenzone
Octisalate
Oxybenzone
Homosalate

These are mixed with liquids (like purified water), functional agents (emulsifiers, stabilizers), and skin-nourishing ingredients like Vitamin E.

Here’s a graph showing the ingredient percentages typically found in sunscreen.

Four Steps to Making Sunscreen

Step 1: Purify the Water

Sunscreen starts with reverse osmosis purification to ensure clean, contaminant-free water.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Solids, powders, and flakes are added to large kettles or vats with purified water. Recipes outline exact measurements, time, temperature, and mixing speed.

Curious how similar this process is to other manufacturing operations? Check out our past articles:

Step 3: Transfer to Stainless Steel Tanks

Once mixed, the formula is pumped through sanitary piping into 1,000-gallon tanks inside sterile rooms.

Step 4: Fill & Package

From these tanks, sunscreen flows into pressurized filling machines via more stainless piping.

Bottles are fed in by conveyor
Nozzles fill, cap, and seal each bottle automatically
Products are then boxed, palletized, wrapped, and shipped

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

Manufacturing it may be straightforward. Buying it? Not always.

If you’re standing in the sunscreen aisle unsure what to choose, you’re not alone.
Here are two great resources:

American Academy of Dermatology: Sunscreen FAQs
Understanding SPF: Sun Protection Factor

And remember — no matter how many “seasons” your state has, wear sunscreen year-round.

Happy (and SAFE) Sunning!