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. 

PG&E and Acena Consulting Join CMTA as Associate Members

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CMTA Sponsors City of Fremont’s 13th Annual Manufacturing Week

Fremont, Calif. – In recognition of National Manufacturing Day on Oct. 4, the City of Fremont hosted its 13th annual celebration of Manufacturing Week from Oct. 8 to Oct. 14. Sponsored by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA), the weeklong...

2024 MakingCA Conference Recap

Innovation in Manufacturing: Bridging the Gap Between Tradition & Technology 100 people joined CMTA to celebrate California’s 30,000 manufacturers during the 2nd Annual MakingCA Conference on Friday, October, 18, 2024. Speakers included CEO of People’s First Beef...

Press Release

Fourth-Generation Walnut Manufacturer Joins CMTA

Nov 19, 2024

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) proudly welcomes Grower Direct Nut Co., a leader in the walnut industry with a rich history in sustainable farming and innovative processing techniques, as a new member of the association.

“Grower Direct Nut Co. focuses on quality, sustainability, and innovation, which aligns perfectly with our mission to strengthen California’s manufacturing sector,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of CMTA. “We look forward to supporting their growth and continued success as a family-owned maker.”

Grower Direct Nut Co. processes conventional and organic California walnuts, serving a wide range of markets from industrial food processors to retailers. As a fourth-generation family-owned business, they are committed to producing high-quality walnut products and maintaining strong ties with the agricultural community.

“We are very excited to be joining CMTA and look forward to the robust network of industry peers and resources fostering collaboration and innovation in manufacturing technologies,” said Aaron Martella, President of Grower Direct Nut Co. “We are excited to take advantage of the educational and training opportunities that can enhance workforce skills, driving efficiency and productivity in our company.”

The walnut manufacturer is one of the first growers and packers to develop and market seasoned walnuts and butters. The company also has one of the largest walnut huller and dehydrators in California, with the most modern technology in the industry.

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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. 

About Grower Direct Nut Co.

Grower Direct Nut Co. is a fourth-generation family-owned grower, packer, and shipper of California walnuts. We process in-shell, shelled, and diced conventional and organic walnuts which supply industrial food processors, re-baggers, retailers, and produce markets worldwide. Our vertical integration from field to market allows us to produce safe and high-quality walnut products. We proudly stand behind our services and our products, assuring consistency, reliability, and outstanding quality.

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