December 2024

When we attended IMTS 2024, we had the pleasure to meet Mike Hampton, Senior Manager of Technical Services and Solutions for Okuma America. We wanted to learn about things purchasers may not consider when they go to buy a new machine tool and Mike was kind enough to give us an interview on the subject.

For manufacturers, acquiring new machine tools is an exciting time that can lead to improved productivity, enhanced efficiency, and support long-term success. However, it is also a significant investment that may require additional manpower and resources throughout the lifecycle of that new machine.

Here’s a guide to three critical factors you should consider before making your purchase.

Total Cost of Ownership

Mike pointed out, “When you buy a machine tool, it’s a huge investment and there’s many factors to consider about how the cost of ownership is going to take place for years down the road.”

When purchasing a machine tool, it’s important to think beyond the initial price tag. Consider the machine’s longevity, maintenance requirements, and potential repair costs after the warranty expires. Mike explained that Okuma offers robust post-warranty support programs. With their mechanical exchange program, refurbished components are readily available to minimize downtime – a feature that could save you significant time and money.

Spare Parts Availability

Another often overlooked aspect of machine tool purchasing is ensuring ongoing support and access to spare parts. Machine downtime can cripple your operations, so having a fast and dependable network for parts is invaluable.

Mike was proud to point out that Okuma, “technically could ship a mechanical or electrical unit to the customer that same day.” He went on to explain that globally, they have $200 million in spare parts inventory to keep customers running.

Service Support Network

Maintenance is a fact of life in manufacturing. In-house maintenance technicians handle the day-to-day preventative maintenance and upkeep. But what happens when the most complex components break down, or you just don’t have the right maintenance staff on hand?

Mike tells us that Okuma, “has over 1000 certified field technicians in North America. Ready to be on site as soon as that stack light hits red.”

Depending on your operation, you may never need outside maintenance support, but having the peace of mind that it’s available is a huge bonus.

Final Thoughts

When purchasing a machine tool, think strategically about long-term support, service, and costs. Choosing a manufacturer like Okuma, which places a priority on post-purchase support, can make all the difference. As Mike concludes, “Our mission is to pursue a customer for life, and that’s what drives us.”

So, before making your next machine tool purchase, consider these factors to ensure you’re making a choice that supports your operations for years to come.

Watch the full interview with Mike Hampton below.

As the year winds down, many American manufacturing companies find themselves grappling with mounting pressure to meet year-end production targets. Tight deadlines, labor shortages, and increased customer demands can turn the final quarter into a stressful sprint. But what if year-end stress could be transformed into success?

At FlexTrades, we specialize in workforce solutions designed to help manufacturers meet critical deadlines, scale production, and drive efficiency, even when time is running out. Here’s how you can maximize efficiency, meet your year-end targets, and enter the new year with confidence.

Assess and Prioritize Critical Projects

Take a hard look at your year-end goals. Which projects are mission-critical? Prioritize these tasks based on deadlines, customer commitments, and financial impact. Streamline less urgent tasks to free up resources and focus on what matters most.

Tip: Consider conducting a quick production audit to identify bottlenecks and potential delays.

Leverage Technology and Automation

Investing in technology might seem like a long-term strategy, but even small improvements can make a big difference. Consider implementing process automation, real-time tracking systems, or production monitoring tools to enhance operational efficiency.

Pro Tip: Collaborate with experienced and tech-savvy partners, like FlexTrades technicians, who can optimize and maintain your equipment.

Strengthen Your Supply Chain Partnerships

Last-minute disruptions in your supply chain can derail production goals. Strengthen relationships with key suppliers by maintaining open communication, sharing forecasts, and collaborating on contingency plans.

Action Step: Consider working with vendors that offer expedited shipping or just-in-time delivery.

Create a Year-End Action Plan

Success doesn’t happen by chance. It requires a well-defined action plan. Develop a clear, step-by-step roadmap that includes:

Key deadlines and milestones
Assigned roles and responsibilities
Contingency plans for potential risks

Bonus Tip: Conduct weekly reviews to track progress and adjust plans as needed.

Expand Capacity with Flexible Workforce Solutions

Labor shortages are a common challenge in the manufacturing industry, especially during peak production periods. FlexTrades can help with that! We deploy our highly skilled manufacturing professionals on a project basis, allowing you to ramp up production when you need it and where you need it, without the long-term commitment of hiring full-time staff.

Key Benefits:

Access to experienced skilled trades technicians and operators
Reduced onboarding and training time and costs
Scalable workforce tailored to your specific needs

Why Partner with FlexTrades?

When time is tight and stakes are high, FlexTrades can be your trusted workforce partner. Our traveling skilled trades professionals hit the ground running, helping you meet deadlines while maintaining product quality and operational efficiency.

Ready to Turn Stress into Success? Don’t let year-end pressure disrupt your goals. Partner with FlexTrades and gain the workforce staffing solutions you need to succeed. Contact us today to learn how we can help your manufacturing business finish this year strong and position you for continued growth in the new year too.

Turn year-end stress into year-end success… with FlexTrades by your side.

When we envision Santa’s workshop, we picture a bustling hub where toys are crafted, decorations are assembled, and holiday magic comes to life. In the United States, this enchantment is mirrored by skilled tradespeople and manufacturers who produce the festive items that define our Christmas celebrations. Let’s explore some American companies that embody this holiday spirit through their craftsmanship.

Toy Manufacturing: Bringing Joy to Children

Mattel, Inc.: Headquartered in El Segundo, California, Mattel is renowned for iconic toys like Barbie and Hot Wheels. While some production occurs overseas, Mattel maintains manufacturing facilities in the U.S., contributing to the creation of beloved holiday gifts.
Hasbro, Inc.: Based in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, Hasbro produces classics such as Monopoly and Play-Doh. The company supports American manufacturing through various facilities, ensuring that many of their toys are made domestically.

Christmas Decorations: Adorning Homes with Festive Cheer

Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland: Located in Frankenmuth, Michigan, Bronner’s is the world’s largest Christmas store, offering a vast selection of ornaments and decorations, many of which are made in the USA.
Barrango, Inc.: Operating out of South San Francisco, California, Barrango specializes in large-scale commercial Christmas decorations, including giant trees and ornaments, all crafted domestically.

Holiday Lighting: Illuminating the Season

Christmas Lights, Etc.: Based in Alpharetta, Georgia, this company is a leading supplier of Christmas lights and decorations, offering a range of products, including energy-efficient LED options.

Ornaments and Collectibles: Crafting Keepsakes

Department 56: Headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, Department 56 is known for its intricately detailed Christmas village collections and Snowbabies figurines, many of which are crafted in the U.S.
Beacon Design: Located in Lincoln, Rhode Island, Beacon Design is America’s leading ornament manufacturer, producing custom and retail ornaments that adorn Christmas trees nationwide.

Artificial Christmas Trees: Sustainable Festivity

Balsam Hill: Based in Redwood City, California, Balsam Hill is renowned for realistic artificial Christmas trees and holiday décor, with a commitment to quality craftsmanship.

The Role of Skilled Trades in the Holiday Season

Behind each of these companies are skilled tradespeople (machinists, assemblers, electricians, and artisans) whose expertise brings holiday products to life. Their dedication ensures that homes across America are filled with joy and festive spirit each Christmas.

FlexTrades: Supporting the Makers of Holiday Magic

At FlexTrades, we celebrate and support the skilled trades that make the holiday season possible. By connecting manufacturers with talented professionals, we help sustain the industries that bring Christmas magic to life.

This Christmas, as you decorate your home and exchange gifts, take a moment to appreciate the American craftsmanship and skilled tradespeople who make these traditions possible. Their hard work and dedication keep the spirit of Santa’s workshop alive in our communities.

Happy Holidays from FlexTrades!

Tariffs have long been a cornerstone of economic policy and international trade. These taxes on imported goods have been part of the U.S. trade landscape since the nation’s founding, influencing everything from government revenue to domestic industry growth. While tariffs are designed to promote certain economic goals, their effectiveness remains a subject of ongoing debate. For manufacturers, in particular, tariffs can create both opportunities and challenges. Let’s explore the history, purpose, and implications of tariffs to better understand their role in today’s global economy.

What’s a Tariff?

Tariffs are taxes that a country’s government imposes on goods imported from other countries. They have been a part of U.S. trade policy since the United States was founded. In fact, tariffs date back to 1789 when Congress passed the Tariff Act of 1789 and President George Washington signed it into law.

Why Are Tariffs Used?

In general, experts like Douglas Irwin, a professor of economics at Dartmouth College, agree that there are three main reasons for utilizing tariffs: revenue, restriction, and reciprocity.

Revenue: Tariffs are taxes on others. When other countries pay tariffs, it increases revenue for the imposing country.
Restriction: Tariffs can limit foreign goods, restricting imports while potentially supporting domestic goods. The word “potentially” is used here because some argue that restricting imports raises the price of domestic goods, reduces the availability of inputs manufacturers rely on, and exposes inefficiencies in domestic production.
Reciprocity: Tariffs can act as negotiating tools, promoting trade agreements and creating opportunities for trade negotiations.
Some experts suggest an additional “R”: Retaliation. Governments can raise tariffs against countries that have closed their markets, using tariffs as a means of retaliation.

How the United States Has Employed Tariffs

The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the “Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States.”

Early in the nation’s history, free trade was a key principle as the United States sought independence from British influence. However, imposing tariffs during this period helped generate revenue to develop the nation while meeting its goal of separation from British policies.

Historically, the U.S. has used tariffs to encourage domestic industrial growth. Up until 1913, tariffs were the largest source of federal revenue. With the introduction of the federal income tax, the government began to rely less on tariffs as a primary revenue source.

After World War II, the global economy required cooperation to rebuild. This led to the establishment of agreements and organizations such as the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). These commitments to free trade sought to lower tariffs and facilitate imports and exports between countries.

What Tariffs Mean for Manufacturers

Tariffs and trade are often accompanied by tension, creating what could be called the “Three T’s.” For manufacturers, the impact of tariffs is complex, with varying opinions on their benefits and drawbacks.

Supporters of tariffs argue that they:

Increase domestic manufacturing and wages.
Boost government revenue.
Protect certain industries and intellectual property.
Address unfair trade practices.
Promote research, development, and innovation.

Critics of tariffs counter that they:

Disrupt global trade flows.
Create inefficiencies for domestic manufacturers.
Exacerbate market inequities.
Generate insufficient revenue to justify their implementation.
Increase costs for consumers.

What Do You Think?

Tariffs are a multifaceted tool that have shaped economic and trade policies throughout U.S. history. Their impact on manufacturers varies widely depending on perspective, industry, and the specific terms of trade agreements. Whether viewed as a means of promoting domestic growth or as a hindrance to global trade, tariffs remain a critical and often controversial element of economic strategy. For manufacturers and industry professionals, understanding tariffs is essential to navigating both opportunities and challenges in an increasingly interconnected world.

So, what do you think? Are tariffs a necessary safeguard for domestic industries, or do they do more harm than good?

The Challenge of Rapid Workforce Deployment

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing industry, the ability to quickly deploy skilled tradespeople can be the difference between success and failure. Unforeseen equipment breakdowns, sudden production surges, and unexpected project deadlines can strain even the most well-staffed facilities. That’s where a reliable solutions partner can be a game-changer.

Introducing Your Strategic Workforce Solution

FlexTrades is more than just a staffing agency; we’re your strategic workforce solution. With a deep bench of highly skilled tradespeople across a wide range of disciplines, we’re ready to rapidly deploy to manufacturing facilities nationwide and hit the ground running once onsite. With an average time to fill at just four days, you don’t have to compromise on quality or speed with FlexTrades.

Why Choose Us?

We’re on Your Time: Our streamlined processes and extensive network of skilled workers enable us to mobilize teams quickly, minimizing downtime and ensuring timely project completion.
We have the Skilled Tradespeople You Need: We have access to a vast team of experienced professionals, including:
- Assemblers
- Engineers
- Machinists
- Millwrights
- Operators
- Painters
- Programmers
- Quality Control
- Welders
- And more
We Do the Vetting for You: We employ a rigorous screening process to ensure that our technicians meet the highest industry standards. Our team is committed to providing only the best solutions for you and your facility’s needs.
Custom Solution for You: Whether you need to overcome a backlog, implement new software or a new product line, add a new shift, get idle or unused machines working, train your employees, or you have high turnover rates or your workforce is retiring, and beyond, we tailor our services to meet your specific needs.
You Get Comprehensive Support: We provide comprehensive support services, including a dedicated Client Services Manager focused on your success, a Project Managers that oversees technician support, so you don’t have to worry about day-to-day management, safety training, and more, to ensure a seamless experience for both you and your workforce.

Just a Few Ways that We Can Help You

Backlog in Production: Avoid delays in production or risking customer relationships by getting the extra hands you need to overcome your backlog.
New Product Line, Shift or Software: Quickly mobilize skilled tradespeople to support your facility advancements and growth. Whether you’re implementing a new product line, a new software system, or a new shift we’re here to help the transition be successful.
Peak Season Support: Augment your workforce during periods of high demand to maintain productivity.
Project-Based Staffing: Secure specialized talent for specific projects, ensuring timely completion and high-quality results.

By partnering with FlexTrades, you can gain a competitive edge by ensuring a reliable and skilled workforce, always ready to rapidly deploy to your facility and meet your business needs.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals.

A leading manufacturer of motion controls was facing significant delays in launching their new product lines. The inability to complete orders on time was putting them behind schedule and hindering their ability to meet market demands. To address these challenges, the company turned to FlexTrades for assistance. We rapidly deployed Bradley, a highly skilled CMM Programmer.

Bradley’s expertise and efficiency were instrumental in overcoming the production bottlenecks. He was able to finish programming three-part numbers in just one-third of the estimated time, significantly accelerating the production process. Bradley’s contributions were crucial in enabling the completion of the Factory Acceptance Tests (FAIRs), which were essential in launching the new product lines. By revolutionizing the CMM inspection process, Bradley helped the company overcome their challenges and successfully launch their new products.

Key Benefits

Rapid Deployment: FlexTrades’ ability to quickly mobilize skilled tradespeople ensured that the client’s needs were met promptly.

Enhanced Efficiency: Bradley’s expertise and efficiency led to significant improvements in the CMM programming process.

Product Launch Acceleration: The successful completion of FAIRs enabled the company to launch their new product lines on schedule.

Conclusion

The case study demonstrates the value of partnering with a skilled tradespeople provider like FlexTrades. By leveraging Bradley’s expertise, the motion controls manufacturer overcame production challenges, improved efficiency, and successfully launched their new product lines. This success story highlights the importance of having access to skilled talent to drive innovation and achieve business goals.

The Challenge

A leading machinery manufacturing company was facing a significant production bottleneck due to increased orders. The Operations Manager, concerned about a potential backlog and the strain on their overworked workforce, sought a solution to address the growing demand.

The Solution

To overcome their production challenges, the company turned to FlexTrades for assistance. FlexTrades, known for its expertise in providing production solutions, responded swiftly by deploying 16 CNC Machinists across the company’s two facilities.

The Results

One of the CNC Machinists, Jon, played a pivotal role in enhancing productivity in the roughing department. By retooling and assisting in reprogramming, Jon was able to achieve remarkable results. He successfully reduced tooling costs by a staggering 50% while simultaneously cutting production time by 60%.

Furthermore, Jon’s expertise allowed him to implement more efficient processes by running multiple machines and programming when possible. This not only increased productivity but also helped alleviate the workload on the permanent workforce.

Key Innovations

Tooling Optimization: Jon’s analysis of the production process led to the identification of opportunities to optimize tooling usage, resulting in significant cost savings.

Process Reengineering: By reconfiguring the production workflow and implementing more efficient procedures, Jon was able to streamline operations and reduce bottlenecks.

Skill Sharing: Jon’s willingness to share his expertise with other team members contributed to a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing.

Impact on the Business

The successful implementation of Jon’s innovations had a profound impact on the machinery manufacturing company. The company was able to:

Meet Increased Demand: The improved efficiency and productivity enabled the company to meet the growing demand for their products without compromising on quality.

Reduce Costs: The significant reduction in tooling costs and production time translated into substantial cost savings for the company.

Improve Employee Morale: By alleviating the workload on the permanent workforce, the company was able to improve employee morale and job satisfaction.

Strengthen Competitive Position: The increased efficiency and cost savings allowed the company to strengthen its competitive position in the market.

Conclusion

The case study demonstrates the value of partnering with a production solutions provider like FlexTrades. By leveraging FlexTrades’ expertise, the machinery manufacturing company was able to overcome production challenges, improve efficiency, and achieve significant cost savings. Jon’s innovations serve as a model for how skilled tradespeople can contribute to the success of a business by driving efficiency, reducing costs, and improving overall performance.

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.

Total Cost of Ownership

Spare Parts Availability

Service Support Network

Final Thoughts

Assess and Prioritize Critical Projects

Leverage Technology and Automation

Strengthen Your Supply Chain Partnerships

Create a Year-End Action Plan

Expand Capacity with Flexible Workforce Solutions

Key Benefits:

Why Partner with FlexTrades?

Toy Manufacturing: Bringing Joy to Children

Christmas Decorations: Adorning Homes with Festive Cheer

Holiday Lighting: Illuminating the Season

Ornaments and Collectibles: Crafting Keepsakes

Artificial Christmas Trees: Sustainable Festivity

The Role of Skilled Trades in the Holiday Season

FlexTrades: Supporting the Makers of Holiday Magic

What’s a Tariff?

Why Are Tariffs Used?

How the United States Has Employed Tariffs

What Tariffs Mean for Manufacturers

What Do You Think?

The Challenge of Rapid Workforce Deployment

Introducing Your Strategic Workforce Solution

Why Choose Us?

Just a Few Ways that We Can Help You

Key Benefits

Conclusion

The Challenge

The Solution

The Results

Key Innovations

Impact on the Business

Conclusion

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?

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