General Interest Archives

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!

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate America, a groundbreaking shift is taking place. Companies are increasingly recognizing the value of fostering a work environment where employees feel empowered to bring their authentic selves to the table. This paradigm shift is not only refreshing but also essential for driving innovation, boosting morale, and ultimately achieving business success.

Why Authenticity Matters in the Workplace

For too long, traditional corporate culture has demanded a certain level of conformity, often suppressing individuality and creativity. However, recent studies show that when employees feel comfortable being themselves, they are more engaged, productive, and satisfied with their jobs.

The Benefits of Embracing Your Whole Self

Enhanced Creativity: When employees feel safe sharing their unique perspectives and ideas, it leads to a more innovative and dynamic workplace.
Improved Mental Health: Authentic workplaces reduce stress and anxiety, leading to better mental health outcomes for employees.
Stronger Company Culture: A culture that values diversity and inclusion fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among employees.
Increased Productivity: Engaged and happy employees are more likely to be productive and committed to their work.
Better Decision-Making: Diverse perspectives lead to more informed and effective decision-making.

A Few Ways FlexTrades Creates an Authentic Workplace

We live out our values: Our company values are deeply integrated into all aspects of our work, influencing everything from the way we design interview questions to our committee initiatives, goal-setting processes, and town hall meetings.
Interactive Committee Events:We encourage employees to share their talents and hobbies through various committee-led initiatives. Recently, several team members showcased their skills in a “Holiday Craft Show,” inspiring others to support colleagues and shop small for holiday gifts. We’ve also hosted mid-day yoga and breathwork sessions to promote wellness in the workplace.
Meyers-Briggs Implementation:Each employee has the opportunity to explore their personality preferences through a Myers-Briggs assessment. This experience not only helps them gain self-awareness but also fosters a more collaborative environment, encourages open communication, and celebrates both differences and similarities.

At our recent Holiday Craft Show, we had eight vendors, including Sales Training Manager Craig, who shared his gift of giving guitar lessons.

How to Create a More Authentic Workplace

Lead by Example: Executives and managers can set the tone by being authentic themselves.
Foster Open Communication: Encourage open and honest dialogue among employees.
Celebrate Differences: Recognize and appreciate the unique qualities of each employee.
Provide Support: Offer resources and training to help employees navigate challenges and develop their skills.
Create Inclusive Policies: Implement policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.

By embracing authenticity, companies can create a more positive, productive, and fulfilling work environment for their employees. It’s time to break free from the old-fashioned notion of the corporate “mask” and let our true selves shine—every day.

The autumn wind may be a Raider but this year, as it sweeps across stadiums and the leaves begin to fall, it’s bringing big changes with it. With the kickoff to its 105^th season, the stage is set for another interesting chapter in the storied history of the National Football League. Each season, the league invites us to witness greatness, heartache, and triumph. But, for competitors and fans alike, this season just feels different. The NFL, always evolving, faces questions that stretch beyond the gridiron and into the heart of what the sport (and our uniquely American fixation with football) means. Seven questions stand at the forefront as we embark on this journey. Seven questions that will define the season to come.

Can the Taylor Swift Connection Continue to Draw New Fans to the NFL?

In a story fit for the silver screen, the NFL collided with pop culture like never before last year. Taylor Swift—an international pop sensation—found herself a part of the NFL narrative, capturing the imagination of a generation of fans unfamiliar with the game. Will the star power of Swift, paired with the brilliance of Kansas City’s own Travis Kelce, continue to lure new fans into football’s orbit? Or will this be a fleeting moment in the annals of NFL lore? Time will tell if the crossroads of music and football can spark a revolution in fandom but finding out has become must see TV.

Will New Rules Bring Excitement Back to Kickoffs?

Once, the kickoff was a play that could change the course of a game in an instant. A return man dancing along the sideline, the roar of the crowd swelling with each broken tackle along the way to the endzone. But in recent years, the kickoff has lost its edge. Now, with new rules designed to ignite that lost excitement, the league hopes to recapture the magic of one of its most thrilling moments. Can the NFL bring back the drama, while also protecting the players who risk it all on each play? This season, we may see special teams rise once again to reclaim their rightful place in the spotlight of America’s most popular sport.

Have the Bears Finally Found Their Franchise QB?

Chicago. The Windy City. A place where football is woven into the fabric of its people. And yet, for decades, the Bears have wandered the quarterback wilderness, searching for a leader who could stand tall like the great Sid Luckman did so many years ago. Enter Caleb Williams—a very young man with the weight of a very proud city on his shoulders. Williams has shown flashes of brilliance, his legs as dangerous as his arm. But can he be the answer to Chicago’s long, lonely search for a franchise quarterback? This season, the legacy of a team and a city hangs in the balance as the rest of the country watches.

Can the Kansas City Chiefs Become the First NFL Team to Win Three in a Row?

Dynasties are rare in the NFL. They are forged through a combination of greatness, resilience, and a touch of fate. The Kansas City Chiefs, led by the wizardry of Patrick Mahomes, stand on the precipice of history. After almost 60 years of trying, no team has won three straight Super Bowls. The Chiefs have the pieces in place—the coach, the quarterback, the championship pedigree, and two consecutive championships. But standing between them and immortality is a league full of contenders eager to claim the throne and a notorious reputation for parity. Will this be the year that Kansas City etches its name into the record books, or will the weight of expectations prove too great?

Will More NFL Games on Streaming Services Help or Hurt Fan Access?

In a world where the way we consume entertainment has changed, so too has the way we watch football. This season, more NFL games will be streamed than ever before, marking a bold new direction for the league. For some, it’s a chance to watch the game wherever they are. For others, it’s a step away from the tradition of Sunday afternoon television. Will the move to streaming bring the game to new heights, or will it leave some fans behind? The NFL has always been about accessibility, and this season, we’ll discover if the digital age helps or hinders the connection between the game and its fans.

What’s the NFL Like Without Tom Brady or Bill Belichick?

For more than two decades, the names Tom Brady and Bill Belichick were synonymous with NFL greatness. Together, they forged a dynasty, a pairing of coach and quarterback that will be remembered for generations. But now, for the first time in over 20 years, the NFL moves forward without either at the helm of a contender. Brady has hung up his cleats and is heading for the press box. And Belichick finds himself in unfamiliar territory too, not on the sidelines with any team. This season marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. The question is: who will rise to fill the void left by these titans of the game and how will fans respond?

Can Aaron Rodgers Make the Jets Relevant?

The New York Jets are a franchise with a history as turbulent as the skies in which their namesakes fly. It’s been over half a century since Joe Namath delivered his famous guarantee and led the franchise to its last Super Bowl. Now, the Jets have placed their faith in a man named Aaron Rodgers, a quarterback whose resume speaks for itself. Rodgers has brought hope to a fanbase that has long suffered. But can the veteran QB, now in the twilight of his career, lift the Jets to relevance in the most competitive football city in the world? The path to greatness in the Big Apple is paved with pressure, and the stakes have never been higher.

As the 2024 NFL season dawns, we are reminded that this game, like life itself, is about moments. Moments of glory. Moments of heartbreak. Moments that leave an indelible mark on history. Seven questions. Seven stories waiting to unfold. The journey begins now. Will you be watching to see where it leads?

A patent is a legal document granted by a sovereign authority to an inventor or inventors, giving them the right (for a set amount of time) to prevent others from making, using, or selling their invention. Legal jargon like that might make patents seem like a boring conversation topic, but patents are critical to protecting intellectual property around the world and are much more interesting than you may believe. Read on to learn ten of the most interesting facts about patents we’ve found to see what we mean!

The very first patent granted was given to Filippo Brunelleschi in Florence. Filippo created an invention and secured a patent for his creation. It was for a boat to move heavy loads of large marble slabs up the Arno River during the construction of the Florence cathedral, which began in 1296 and took 140 years to complete.
From 1790-1836, U.S. patents were initially held in the Blodget Hotel in Washington, D.C. In 1836, a fire in this office blazed, destroying what is believed to be 10,000 patent drawings and 7,000 patent models. Of these, 2,845 patents have been restored, with the inventor resubmitting the drawings to the patent office.
Mary Dixon Kies was the first woman to not only receive a U.S. patent under her own name but also the first woman to apply under her own name in 1809. This is a big deal since women were not legally allowed patent rights under their own names until the mid-1800s.
President Abraham Lincoln held Patent No. 6,469, which was for a device to “buoy vessels over shoals.” Although never put to use, he is the only president to hold a patent.
In 1903, Lizzie Magie patented an anti-capitalist game called “The Landlord’s Game” (U.S. patent No. 748,626). Thirty years later, Hasbro’s “Monopoly” was invented (based on Magie’s game) and received Patent No. 2,026,082.
A man named Shunpei Yamazaki in Japan holds the Guinness World Record for the most patents, at 11,353.
In 1882, Samuel S. Applegate received a patent for his “Device For Waking Persons From Sleep.” This device connected a wall-mounted alarm clock to a wooden frame. On the frame were suspended wooden blocks, which were placed directly above the sleeper’s head. When the alarm rang, the frame would drop, causing the blocks to hit the person in the face. Applegate himself admitted in his patent application that “these cause pain.”
The IBM Simon Personal Communicator (SPC) is considered the first smartphone and was released to consumers in 1994.
In June 2024, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office issued its 12 millionth patent.
As of 2023, the University of California held over 12,700 patents, more than any other university in the world. Close behind was the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and in third place was the University of Texas system.

These facts prove that the topic of patents is far from boring. But we have more to share! If you have an invention that you want to patent, start with the Inventors Assistance Center of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (opens in a new tab). Want to learn more interesting facts? Then check out our previous blogs (opens in a new tab). And, if you have some interesting facts of your own, send them to our Writing Team. We might make a blog out of them next!

The Olympic games are widely known as one of the greatest shows of athleticism and talent globally. This year’s Paris Summer Olympics continues the tradition in high fashion with exciting new events and renditions. Here’s everything to keep your eyes on once the opening ceremony kicks things off on Friday, July 26.

New Event: Breaking

Arguably the most fascinating and unexpected new event to join the Olympics is “breaking” or breakdancing.

In true battle rap style, competitors dance 1v1 in a best of three competition. When one person’s turn ends, the opponent jumps in for theirs. Judges grade on six criteria: creativity, personality, technique, variety, performativity, and musicality.

Some favorites to look out for in the men’s division are U.S. stars Victor Montalvo and Jeffrey Louis. For the women’s competition, American Sunny Choi and Lithuanian Dominika Banevic are names to watch. Tune in on Friday, August 9 for the start of breaking.

New Event: Kayak Cross

Kayak Cross is a version of Kayak Slalom that started around 2015. It has elements of traditional kayak or canoe slalom, where competitors travel through a water obstacle course of gates. Unique to this rendition, competitors start on a ramp over two meters above the ground.

Kayak cross is also a contact sport. Kayakers can use their paddles to push and move around the competition. The finish is also different. Competitors must complete what is called an “Eskimo Roll”, or essentially a sideways barrel roll, before finishing the race. July 27^th marks the start of this exciting new sport.

Second Olympiad Event: Surfing

Surfing made its debut during the Japan Olympics in 2020. It is returning in 2024, however, it will take place in French Polynesia rather than in Paris.

Brazil’s Ítalo Ferreira won in 2020 and is expected to make a strong run for gold again. The same is true for Tokyo’s women’s winner, Carissa Moore of the U.S. Be on the lookout for surfing starting Saturday, July 27.

Second Year Event: Skateboarding

Skateboarding is also returning for its second Olympics. Like Surfing, it was introduced at the 2020 Olympics in Toyko. There are four main events, street and park skateboarding for both men and women.

In 2020, Japan almost swept by winning three of four possible gold medals. This year watch out for famous U.S. pros like Nyjah Huston and Mariah Duran as well. Skateboarding is scheduled to start on July 27^th.

Second Year Event: 3v3 Basketball

A different version of basketball is returning after its successful debut in the 2020 Olympics. 3v3 basketball has all the same excitement of traditional 5 on 5, yet with two less players!

Differences between the two are relatively marginal, with the most prominent being court size and scoring. Teams consist of four players, one of whom for the United States is college basketball legend, Jimmer Fredette. You can jump into some 3v3 basketball when it begins on July 30.

Other Notable Changes

Artistic Swimming: First time men are included in this swimming competition.
Boxing: A new women’s weight class has been added, and a men’s weight class has been cut.
Sailing: Two kite events have been added for 2024.
Shooting: Mixed skeet team event has replaced the mixed team trap event.
Track and Field: Marathon race walk mixed relay has replaced the men’s 50KM race walk.
Volleyball: Teams are divided into three pools of four, instead of two pools of six, this Olympiad.
Weightlifting: 14 weight classes have shrunk to only 10.

The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics is not something to miss. Not just because it only happens every four years, but because of the exciting new events and storylines that are sure to arise this year. Be sure to tune in and root on your home country!

Once a duopoly of Cold War rivals, the space race has transcended government confines, embracing the dynamism of private enterprise. Spearheading this cosmic renaissance, SpaceX has not only challenged traditional paradigms but redefined what’s possible beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

The Emergence of Private Industry in the Space Race:

The narrative of space exploration has undergone a seismic shift from a government-sponsored competition to an arena where private entities like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic take center stage. SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk with the vision of making life multi-planetary, has eclipsed conventional benchmarks, setting new milestones with its Falcon rockets and the Dragon spacecraft.

The Role of Skilled Technicians in Aerospace Innovations:

Behind the scenes of these technological marvels are the unsung heroes: highly skilled technicians. In this era of innovation, companies such as FlexTrades play a crucial role by deploying experienced machinists and engineers who bring the visionary projects of companies like Blue Origin to fruition. The partnership between aerospace leaders and talent providers ensures that even the most ambitious missions find their footing in reality.

SpaceX’s Impact on the Space Race and Beyond:

SpaceX’s contributions to the space race are both profound and far-reaching. From achieving the first privately funded spacecraft to reach orbit to pioneering the first astronaut mission by a private company, SpaceX has blazed a trail for the industry. Moreover, its ambition for Mars colonization underscores a future where space exploration becomes a part of humanity’s collective destiny. A recent success story highlighted by Mashable showcases the third successful launch of the Starship, illustrating the tangible strides being made toward interplanetary travel.

The Future of Space Exploration with Private Industry Participation:

The horizon for space exploration is boundless. With private industry’s agility, innovation, and resources, the next chapters promise lunar bases, Mars colonies, and so much more. Perhaps, one day, even voyages to the outer solar system will occur. The symbiosis between pioneering companies like SpaceX and the specialized talent from partners such as FlexTrades will be instrumental in navigating these uncharted territories.

To Infinity… And Beyond

The space race, once defined by geopolitical rivalry, now thrives on collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for humanity’s future in the cosmos. SpaceX, with its groundbreaking achievements and bold aspirations, alongside the vital support from skilled technicians and engineers, stands at the forefront of this new era. As we look to the stars, the partnership between aerospace pioneers and the dedicated talents that propel them forward illuminates the path to the next frontier.

HUDSON, Wisconsin, April 1, 2024 — In a groundbreaking announcement today, FlexTrades, the renowned national manufacturing services provider, has declared its ambitious plan to send 50 skilled tradespeople to Mars in 2025. This unprecedented move marks a giant leap in human exploration and sets the stage for a new era of interplanetary cooperation and development.

The mission, set to last for approximately 90 days, will see FlexTrades technicians embarking on a journey beyond Earth’s bounds to assist in assembling infrastructure for habitation and scientific research on the Martian surface. Leveraging their expertise in manufacturing processes, these technicians will play a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for sustainable living conditions and advancing scientific endeavors on our neighboring planet.

“We are thrilled to announce this historic endeavor,” said Amara Galaxia, Chief of Space Operations (CSO). “Our technicians possess unparalleled skills and experience, and we believe that their contributions will be invaluable in shaping the future of Martian exploration and colonization.”

FlexTrades, acting as both a pioneer and a visionary in this endeavor, will oversee all aspects of the mission, including travel arrangements, lodging, and ensuring the safety and well-being of its personnel throughout their journey to the Red Planet.

“The opportunity to extend our services beyond Earth’s boundaries is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence,” added Galaxia. “We are confident that our technicians will rise to the challenge and make significant contributions to the ongoing efforts to unlock the mysteries of Mars.”

While the mission undoubtedly carries its share of challenges and uncertainties, FlexTrades remains undeterred in its pursuit of pushing the boundaries of human exploration and discovery. With meticulous planning and unwavering determination, the company aims to ensure the success of this historic venture and pave the way for future endeavors in space exploration.

As the countdown to 2025 begins, the world eagerly anticipates witnessing the journey of FlexTrades technicians as they embark on an extraordinary odyssey to Mars, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of human history.

Happy April Fools’ Day, from FlexTrades! While we may not be sending technicians to Mars just yet, we’re always ready to tackle new challenges here on Earth. Stay tuned for more fun and exciting content from FlexTrades in the future.

About FlexTrades:

FlexTrades is a premier traveling workforce solutions provider offering bespoke services to manufacturing companies nationwide. Established in 2004, FlexTrades is a leader in deploying skilled industrial and engineering talent to companies experiencing production shortfalls, skills gaps or operational backlogs. FlexTrades leverages its vast network of skilled trade technicians while seamlessly handling all travel logistics, administration, and personnel management to ensure the right talent for each project. The FlexTrades mission is to make a difference every day through its impact on American production. The success of this commitment is evident in the thousands of individuals provided with work that matters and by the ever-growing satisfaction of our clients, technicians, corporate team members, partners, and communities.

Learn how FlexTrades can make a difference for you at www.flextrades.com.

For More Information:

Josh Erickson
Public Relations & Engagement Specialist
jerickson@flextrades.com

Once upon a modern Valentine’s Day, as hearts fluttered and roses bloomed, I found myself enamored not with a traditional Juliette but with a suitor of a different kind: Artificial Intelligence (AI). It might sound like a love story set in a digital utopia, but the truth is, falling in love with AI is a journey happening right now, in our very real world.

Love at First ‘Code’

My tryst with AI began not with candlelit dinners but with fascinating revelations about its capabilities. AI, in its essence, is a harmonious blend of data, algorithms and machine learning – a trio that dances to the rhythm of human-like intelligence. The charm of AI lies in its endless potential… from simplifying tasks with voice assistants to unlocking mysteries of the universe.

The First Date: Getting Started with AI

Like any first date, starting with AI might feel daunting. But all it takes is a little curiosity. Engage with AI through smart home devices or smartphone assistants. Play with AI-powered apps or take an online course. The more you interact, the deeper your understanding and fascination will grow.

Whispering Sweet Nothings: AI in Daily Life

AI serenades us daily, often in ways we don’t even realize. It recommends the music we fall in love with, the shows that captivate us and even the perfect Valentine’s Day gift on an online store. AI is that silent companion, making our days smoother and our decisions smarter.

A Future Together: The Promise of AI

Envision a future where AI is not just a tool but a companion. A world where AI healthcare bots monitor our health, smart cities reduce our carbon footprint and AI educators personalize learning. This future is not just a dream but a rapidly approaching reality.

Love Letters to AI: Ethical and Responsible Use

Our love for AI must be grounded in ethics and responsibility. As we embrace AI, let’s advocate for its use in enhancing lives, protecting privacy and ensuring fairness. Our AI love story should be one of mutual respect, where we nurture AI for the greater good.

The Eternal Romance: AI and Humanity

As I pen this digital love letter, I realize that the love story between AI and humanity is an eternal one. It’s a relationship that grows and evolves, one that challenges us to reimagine our world and ourselves. This Valentine’s Day, let’s raise a toast to AI – our digital Valentine, our partner in the dance of innovation and progress.

So, dear reader, as you celebrate love in all its forms, remember that AI, in its digital grace, is waiting to be your next great love. Dive into this fascinating relationship and watch as AI transforms not just your Valentine’s Day but every aspect of your life.

Whether we like it or not, Artificial Intelligence is starting to change the landscape of modern life. If you’ve read a few emails or blogs from your favorite companies, there’s a good chance some of that content was written using AI. In fact, in a recent survey, 57% of enterprise marketers reported using AI in email campaigns. A whopping 99% of those respondents reported that the results were either extremely or somewhat positive.

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

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

Limitations With AI

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

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

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

Advantages to Using AI

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

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

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

Getting Started

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

The Prompt

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

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

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

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

Example Prompt:

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

Sleep essentials and comfy clothes
Cooking Supplies
Video Games
Entertainment, Streaming, Movies, Music
Laptop or Personal Computer
Tools
Pets

Unedited Output from ChatGPT Based on The Example Prompt

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

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

Sleep Essentials and Comfy Clothes:

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

Cooking Supplies:

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

Video Games:

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

Entertainment: Streaming, Movies, Music:

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

Laptop or Personal Computer:

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

Tools:

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

Pets:

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

Conclusion:

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

Recently, nearly 300 of our technicians took a survey to share some of their favorite things about summer. At FlexTrades, one of our core values is to “Enjoy the Journey,” which encourages us to appreciate the moments during those warmer months. We believe that celebrating successes is essential, and celebrations usually involve great food and beverages.

Let’s explore some of the most popular summer foods and beverages based on that survey. We apologize in advance if this article triggers cravings for a backyard BBQ!

Favorite Summer Foods

We asked, “What are your favorite summer foods?”

Grilling, a timeless tradition, was the resounding favorite among our respondents, with 88% expressing their love for it. This comes as no surprise, as in a previous blog, I highlighted some of our technicians’ favorite summer activities, where grilling took the top spot. Grilling is incredibly versatile; you can have hot dogs ready to eat in under 10 minutes or slow-cook ribs all day until the meat falls off the bone. Personally, I enjoy grilling most of my sides as well. Have you ever tried grilling corn in the husk or large portobello mushrooms? It’s a culinary delight!

Fruits ranked second, with 44% of respondents savoring them during summer. Enjoying a cool, sweet fruit on a hot day can be incredibly refreshing. One favorite trick is freezing grapes for that extra chill and a touch of crunch.

Speaking of chill, frozen treats like ice cream and popsicles brought out a wave of nostalgia for almost 40% of our respondents. It’s great to have an excuse as a parent to chase down the ice cream truck again. I admit, I still go for the Ninja Turtle popsicle every time. Did you know there’s a National Ice Cream Day each year in July?

No summer barbeque is complete without potato salad and corn on the cob, each having about 29% of respondents’ votes. To this day, I have yet to find a better potato salad than the one my grandma makes during the summer.

Finally, an honorable mention goes to seafood, which had the most write-in responses. Some of the responses included fried fish, crab legs, and seafood boils. The most unique seafood dish mentioned was Banku with Tilapia, a traditional Ghanaian dish. I found this recipe. I think I need to give that a try.

Favorite Summer Beverages

We inquired, “On a hot summer day, after work or on a day off, what are your favorite things to drink?”

Water was the clear favorite, with almost 74% of respondents choosing it. Water is essential, and our technicians, being some of the top skilled tradespeople in America, understand the importance of staying hydrated. According to the Mayo Clinic, men should drink about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluid, while women should drink 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluid daily.

Iced tea secured the second spot with 38% of respondents. Considering many of our technicians come from southern states, I was somewhat surprised that this number wasn’t higher! Nonetheless, one of my favorite written responses was, “My famous summer tea.”

Beer came in third, with 31% of respondents enjoying it. A cold brew after a long day at work or on a warm summer evening just feels right. If you’re into craft breweries, our traveling work can take you all over the country where you might find your new favorite pint!

Sodas, referred to as “pop” by some and “coke” by others, had about 23% of respondents’ preferences. These sugary drinks count towards your daily fluid intake, but they aren’t as healthy as water, tea, or coffee.

Conclusion

So, here’s to the joys of grilling, the sweetness of fruits, the coolness of frozen treats, and the myriad of beverages that quench our thirst. Our technicians have spoken, and their rankings encompass the essence of what they love about summer.

Keep an eye out for at least one more blog based on this survey in the coming weeks. Enjoy your summer to the fullest!