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News & Insights

We’re changing the narrative of the manufacturing industry one story at a time. CMTA’s award-winning storytelling team showcases California’s 30,000 manufacturers by uplifting the voices of our makers. Find industry news and the stories from those “Making California” below. 

Solar Module Manufacturer is Expanding in the Sacramento region

Mar 2, 2023

Sacramento, CA - In a joint press conference with the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) and the Greater Sacramento Economic Council (GSEC), Sacramento-based solar module manufacturer Solar4America announced intentions to expand its presence...

Press Release

2nd Annual Women Making CA Event Celebrates Women in Manufacturing on International Women’s Day

Mar 8, 2023

Speakers included White House Correspondent Jacqui Heinrich, Director of Boeing’s MAF Production Operations Jennifer Boland-Mastersonand Communication Expert Karen Laos
Sacramento, CA – The women of California made it clear at the California Manufacturers & Technology Association’s 2nd Annual Women MakingCA event: They are ready to lead the next generation of manufacturers and change the narrative of the industry. This women-focused event aided the conversation in addressing the challenges and opportunities in manufacturing with prominent industry sector representatives, key government leaders, and students from local Northern California colleges on International Women’s Day.
Women in manufacturing jobs make 16% more than the national median annual income for women,however, they only make 72% of the median male salary in the industry, according to recent U.S. census data. On top of that, women make up 47% of the American workforce, but only 30% work in manufacturing, significantly lacking in the sector.
“Women have amazing potential to contribute to the manufacturing industry, but for them to reach that – the opportunities must be provided. Male leaders’ conscious inclusion of diverse women will create an infusion of unique perspectives to the manufacturing industry that will continue to put California at the forefront with their insight, engagement, and inclusion,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of CMTA. “We hope this event is a catalyst for important and courageous conversations that must take place throughout our industry as we face the reality that women are still underrepresented, yet integral to our future success.”
The challenges we face in the industry demand a multifaceted and diverse approach to solving a multitude of problems, including a looming workforce shortage. Bringing women leaders into that conversation will aid us as we navigate this next decade in manufacturing.
The day was filled with inspirational and imperative advice on advancing in the industry. Important discussions were had on diversity and inclusion in our Women Manufacturing Leaders Panel. Manufacturers also had an inside look at what the industry looks like to California’s lawmakers during the Legislative Panel including Assembly member Cottie Petrie-Norris and Assembly member Blanca Pacheco. CMTA was also proud to welcome dozens of students from local Northern California colleges to the conversation to help inspire them to pursue a career in the industry. Keynote speakers included:
  • Chief Inspiration Officer of SHE IS CHEVAL, & former “Say Yes to the Dress”designer, CHEVAL
  • Fox News White House Correspondent Jacqui Heinrich
  • Director of Boeing’s MAF Production Operations Jennifer Boland-Masterson
  • Women in Manufacturing (WiM) Membership Manager Kara Mayner
  • Communication Expert Karen Laos

“CMTA is dedicated to uplifting female leaders and voices at all levels as we work to change the narrative of the manufacturing industry,” said Ananda Rochita, Vice President of Communications, CMTA. “Women MakingCA was an amazing opportunity for us to recognize the important role that women have played in the success of the manufacturing industry, and to inspire the next generation of women in manufacturing.”

Pamela Kan, President of Bishop-Wisecarver was awarded Manufacturer of the Year, Debra Griffin, MUN CPAs was awarded Service Provider of the Year, and QMP, Inc.was awarded Innovator of the Year.

CMTA remains dedicated to supporting not only women but diverse populations. This past year, the nonprofit organization re-launched its CMTA Foundation to provide scholarships for the next generation.

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About CMTA:
The California Manufacturers & Technology Association has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $300 billion per year, roughly 10 percent of the total economic output of the state. Manufacturers employ 1.3 million Californians paying wages more than $25,000 higher than other non-farm employers in the state. For more information, visit the CMTA website.

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