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. 

Voltek Ace Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new member Voltek Ace to the organization today. “Our small and medium-sized manufacturers make up a large sector of California’s economy, with 64% of the Golden State’s...

BlueForge Alliance and CommerceWest Bank Join CMTA

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed two new associate members, BlueForge Alliance (BFA) and CommerceWest Bank, to the organization today. “I am excited to welcome our two newest associate members to CMTA, both...

CMTA Hosts Manufacturing Roundtable with Senator Wahab in Fremont

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) hosted a Manufacturers Roundtable with Senator Dr. Aisha Wahab in the City of Fremont. Wahab represents Senate District 10, covering the cities of Hayward, Union City, Newark, Fremont, Milpitas,...

California Holiday Gift Guide: Unique Presents from the Golden State

Celebrate the Holidays with California-Made Gifts   The holiday season is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by supporting California’s vibrant manufacturing community. With over 34,000 manufacturers creating everything from handcrafted treasures...

CMTA Update: New 2025 Laws for California Manufacturers

Sacramento, Calif. – Hundreds of new California laws are about to go into effect starting January 1, 2025. As a Golden State manufacturer and employer, are you ready for the latest rules set on businesses? As a CMTA-member exclusive benefit, continue to read for new...

Nexamp Solar Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new associate member, Nexamp Solar, to the organization today. “I am honored to welcome our newest associate member to CMTA,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of...

Fourth-Generation Walnut Manufacturer Joins CMTA

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...

Press Release

Manufacturing Minute: California’s First New Steel Mill in 50 Years Begins Construction

Apr 10, 2025

This week’s Manufacturing Minute brings attention to significant developments in steel manufacturing, electrical products, and workers’ compensation solutions for California manufacturers. 

Watch the latest Manufacturing Minute episode in the video player above. 

 

Pacific Steel Breaks Ground on New Steel Manufacturing Facility in California

 

Photo Courtesy of Pacific Steel Group

Pacific Steel has officially broken ground on its Mojave Micro Mill, marking the first steel mill to be built in California in over 50 years. Located in Mojave, California, this 500,000-square-foot facility is expected to create nearly 700 new jobs, including roles for electricians, welders, and automation specialists. The mill will set new standards in clean steel manufacturing, featuring innovative carbon capture and high-efficiency filtration systems to minimize emissions. Furthermore, the project supports California’s carbon-neutral goals by dedicating 63 acres to on-site renewable energy. With a focus on producing steel for public infrastructure, the mill is positioned to localize the supply chain and contribute to regional economic growth.

 

Siemens Invests $95M to Expand California Manufacturing

 

Photo Courtesy of Siemens

Siemens is also making strides in California, investing $95 million to expand its low-voltage electrical products manufacturing facility in Pomona. The new 100,000-square-foot facility will increase production capacity for critical electrical products needed in the industrial, commercial, and construction sectors. The expansion will create 123 new jobs and is part of Siemens’ ongoing efforts to meet growing market demand. The facility will be built with sustainable construction practices and is set to become the first LEED Gold-certified industrial building in Pomona. Key features of the new hub include a rooftop solar canopy that will supply 32% of the facility’s electricity and innovative technologies like an all-electric powder coat paint line and battery-energy storage systems. 

 

CMTA Partners With CompScience and Bender Insurance Solutions for New Workers’ Comp Program

 

In another important development, CMTA, CompScience, and Bender Insurance Solutions have partnered to launch a new workers’ compensation insurance program tailored specifically for California manufacturers. This program, underwritten by AmTrust Financial, covers over 300 manufacturing class codes and offers competitive pricing with an additional 5% discount for CMTA members. The program is designed to address rising workers’ compensation costs and enhance workplace safety for manufacturers. Lance Hastings, President & CEO of CMTA, emphasized the program’s value in providing personalized safety improvements and reducing claims costs, offering manufacturers a much-needed solution to the growing challenges in workplace safety and insurance.

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

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