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. 

Microgrid Industry Leader, Enchanted Rock, Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) officially welcomed Enchanted Rock, an industry leader in electrical resiliency-as-a-service, to the organization today. Enchanted Rock is leading the way with its innovative...

Boutique Electric Guitar Manufacturer Kauer Guitars Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) officially welcomed Kauer Guitars, a boutique electric guitar maker, to the organization today. Kauer Guitars was established after a lifetime of woodworking in 2007 by Doug Kauer....

Sacramento Popcorn Maker Carmazzi Caramel Corn Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed Carmazzi Caramel Corn, California’s Lil’ Drops of Sunshine, to the organization today. A secret family recipe passed down from four generations to Karen Carmazzi and her son...

Melrose Nameplate & Label Co. Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed Melrose Nameplate & Label Co. to the organization today. Melrose Nameplate & Label Co. is a leading manufacturer of graphic products, diecut components, and user...

Press Release

Voting Starts for the Coolest Thing Made in California Competition

Sep 4, 2023

Sacramento, CA – Hundreds of California-made products have been nominated to the Coolest Thing Made in California competition, now it’s time to let the public decide which innovative product will secure a spot in the highly anticipated Top 16 bracket. From Monday, September 4 to 8, members of the public will have the chance to cast their votes five times per day in the Popular Round.

Hosted by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA), the Coolest Thing Made in California competition aims to celebrate the spirit of innovation and creativity that defines the Golden State. California boasts 30,000 manufacturers and 1.3 million employees that contribute $310 billion to the state’s annual GDP. The competition highlights the remarkable products that have originated from the diverse and dynamic landscape of California.

Popular Round Details:

  • Voting Open: September 4-8
  • Voting Limit: The public can vote up to 5 times per day.
  • Voting Method: Visit our official website CoolestThingCalifornia.com and follow the simple steps to cast your votes for your favorite product.
  • Voting Impact: The popular round votes will determine which products move on to the Top 8 bracket.
  • Winners: After weekly elimination rounds, the winner will be announced at the MakingCA Conference hosted by CMTA on National Manufacturing Day, October 6. 

Coolest Thing Made in California Schedule:

  • Popular Vote: Sept. 4-8
  • Top 16 Vote: Sept. 11-14
  • Top 8 Vote: Sept. 18-21
  • Top 4 Vote: Sept. 25-28
  • Winner Announced: Oct. 6, National Manufacturing Day

For more information, updates and to participate in the contest, please visit coolestthingcalifornia.com.

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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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