This week’s Manufacturing Minute highlights impressive developments happening in California from two of CMTA’s Board Member companies. Manufacturing Minute is released bi-weekly by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association and is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.

Boeing’s Orca XLUUV is leading innovation in Undersea Operations

Boeing Orca XLUUV | Photo Courtesy of USNI News

Boeing’s Orca XLUUV, an autonomous extra-large unmanned undersea vehicle, is being made in California near Huntington Beach. This fully autonomous vehicle is designed to meet the growing demand for undersea operational awareness and payload delivery.  

The Orca is set to transform naval capabilities. This vehicle is being made specifically to support the US Navy. The Orca can perform critical missions such as mine countermeasures, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, electronic warfare, and strike missions, all with remarkable reliability and endurance. The Orca’s modular design, boasting a payload capacity of 2,456 cubic feet, allows it to carry up to 48 small-diameter UUVs or 115 UAVs, providing unparalleled flexibility for diverse mission requirements. As an unmanned system capable of independent operation for months, the Orca represents a significant leap in naval technology, promising to enhance operational efficiency and mission success without requiring direct human intervention. 

Anheuser-Busch Invests $7 Million in Fairfield Brewery Enhancements

Anheuser-Busch Fairfield Brewery | Photo Courtesy of Anheuser-Busch

Anheuser-Busch has announced a significant $7 million investment in its Fairfield brewery, underscoring its commitment to quality and efficiency. The funds will be used for comprehensive facility improvements, including new roofing, equipment, lighting, and essential structural repairs. This investment aims to ensure the brewery continues to produce and distribute high-quality Anheuser-Busch beer efficiently.  

The Fairfield location, brews over 20 of the company’s brands, such as Budweiser, Bud Light, and Big Wave, employs 254 full-time staff and has been operational since 1976.  

Lance Hastings, president and CEO of the California Manufacturers & Technology Association, supports the investment, highlighting its role in strengthening California’s job market and manufacturing sector saying, “Anheuser-Busch’s latest investment in Fairfield underscores their dedication to bolstering California’s job market and manufacturing sector. Through this financial commitment for the future, they’re not only revitalizing their infrastructure, but they’re also reinforcing Fairfield’s pivotal role as a cornerstone of their business.” 

The Fairfield brewery’s enhancements will bolster Anheuser-Busch’s capabilities, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of the company’s operations. 

Coolest Thing Made in California Contest Nominations Open Monday, July 29 

Excitement is building as the Coolest Thing Made in California Contest, powered by JPMorganChase. Starting Monday, July 29, the public can nominate their favorite products made in California. This contest celebrates the ingenuity and creativity of California’s manufacturing industry, allowing various products to compete for the title of the Coolest Thing Made in California. The contest promises to be fierce, as nominated products will go head-to-head in a bid to be crowned this year’s winner. Mark your calendars and get ready to support and showcase the incredible innovations emerging from the Golden State.  

💡To learn more about CMTA’s Coolest Thing Made in California Contest, click here. 

Stay up to date with all manufacturing news by following CMTA on social media.