Economic Development

California manufacturers have been at the forefront of global leadership and innovation. Our member companies look to continue partnering with policymakers to implement pro-growth strategies in California and support creating statewide plans that incentivize investments and employment. 

PG&E and Acena Consulting Join CMTA as Associate Members

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) is proud to welcome two new associate members, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and Acena Consulting to the association. Both companies bring significant expertise that...

How AB 52, Manufacturing Tax Credit, Will Expand California Jobs

California manufacturing generates more than $394 billion annually and employs more than 1.3 million people with over 30,000 firms. Our manufacturers are the most significant contributor to the United States manufacturing industry, making up 11% of the manufacturing...

Press Releases

Manufacturing Minute: California’s Getting a New Manufacturing Jobs Training Program

Manufacturing Minute: California’s Getting a New Manufacturing Jobs Training Program

This week’s Manufacturing Minute highlights exciting advancements in workforce development, biomanufacturing, and defense technology. Manufacturing Minute is released bi-weekly by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association and is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.

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

 

Central Valley’s Latest Game-Changing Workforce Development, FAME Program 

 

Industry leaders gathered for the 9th Annual San Joaquin Valley Manufacturing Summit where the launch of FAME chapter was announced. Photo Courtesy of Frank Lopez

At the 9th Annual San Joaquin Valley Manufacturing Summit, industry leaders celebrated the launch of California’s first Central Valley Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) chapter. This employer-led program will provide hands-on training, technical education, and industry certifications to prepare the next generation of manufacturing professionals. Lance Hastings, president and CEO of CMTA, described the program as a game-changing solution to the skills gap.  

“FAME is not just another training initiative, it’s a groundbreaking, employer-led program that closes the skills gap in manufacturing by training and equipping our next generation of professionals,” Hastings said.  

FAME will collaborate with local manufacturers and educational institutions to create a robust pipeline of skilled workers, ensuring a bright future for the San Joaquin Valley’s manufacturing sector. 

U.S. Department of Defense Investing in Biomanufacturing 

 

The Department of Defense announced the final nine awardees in its Distributed Bioindustrial Manufacturing Program (DBIMP), bringing the total to 34 recipients and over $60 million in funding. Among the awardees are several California-based companies, including Amyris, Checkerspot, EVERY Company, and Perfect Day.  

These firms will develop plans for domestic bioindustrial manufacturing facilities under the Defense Industrial Base Consortium agreement, with potential access to up to $100 million in additional funding. This initiative supports Executive Order 14081, which aims to strengthen America’s bioeconomy, advance biotechnology, and enhance national security through innovative biomanufacturing solutions. Learn more about it here.

 

 

Expansion of a California Defense Manufacturing and Design Engineering Center

 

Photo Courtesy of Pacific Defense

Pacific Defense, a leader in Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) products and mission solutions, is making waves in Silicon Valley. The company recently announced the expansion of its Manufacturing Operations and Design Engineering Center in Sunnyvale, California. 

The state-of-the-art, ISO 9001-certified facility now spans over 20,000 square feet, offering advanced capabilities in hardware design, engineering testing, software integration, and production. By integrating design engineering with manufacturing operations, Pacific Defense enhances collaboration across teams, accelerating the transition from product design to production. This expansion positions the company to meet growing domestic and international demand for cutting-edge modular defense solutions, reinforcing its leadership in the industry. 

 

 

 

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

Manufacturing Minute: California Selected as Headquarters for National Semiconductor Technology Center

Manufacturing Minute: California Selected as Headquarters for National Semiconductor Technology Center

This week’s Manufacturing Minute spotlights exciting advancements in California’s manufacturing landscape. Manufacturing Minute is released bi-weekly by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association and is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.

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

 

California Selected as Headquarters for the National Semiconductor Technology Center

 

First, California has been chosen as the headquarters for the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC), with the Design and Collaboration Facility (DCF) set to be located in Sunnyvale. Announced by the U.S. Department of Commerce and Natcast, the DCF will drive over $1 billion in research funding and create more than 200 jobs over the next decade. The facility will serve as a hub for advanced semiconductor research, including chip design, electronic design automation, and hardware security, fostering collaboration between industry leaders, academia, and government. This development solidifies California’s role as a vital component in the future of semiconductor innovation and workforce development.

 

 Gallo Glass Awarded $5 Million for Hybrid Glass Furnace

 

Photo courtesy of Gallo Glass

In another significant development, CMTA member company Gallo Glass has secured $5 million in state funding for the construction of a hybrid glass furnace at its Modesto plant—the largest glass container production facility in the U.S. The new furnace, supported by both state and federal funding, will enable Gallo to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by shifting from 90% reliance on natural gas to 80% electricity. This project is a significant step toward decarbonizing the U.S. glass industry, aligning with California’s aggressive goals for energy efficiency and sustainability. Gallo plans to have the hybrid furnace operational by 2028, marking a new chapter in environmentally friendly manufacturing. 

 

 Sparkz, A Lithium Battery Manufacturer, Opens in Sacramento

 

Photo courtesy of KCRA 3

Finally, Sparkz, a leader in lithium battery production, has opened a new state-of-the-art facility in Sacramento. This milestone was celebrated by federal and state leaders and represents a critical investment in California’s clean energy future. The Sparkz facility will focus on manufacturing lithium battery materials and cells essential for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, generating hundreds of local jobs. By onshoring lithium battery production, Sparkz is not only driving innovation in the energy sector but also contributing to California’s leadership in the clean energy transition. 

 

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

PG&E and Acena Consulting Join CMTA as Associate Members

PG&E and Acena Consulting Join CMTA as Associate Members

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) is proud to welcome two new associate members, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and Acena Consulting to the association. Both companies bring significant expertise that will benefit CMTA’s mission of supporting and strengthening California’s manufacturing industry.

“We are thrilled to welcome these two companies as new associate members,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of CMTA. “Acena Consulting’s expertise in tax strategy and PG&E’s energy solutions will provide valuable resources for our members, helping them meet challenges and drive innovation in California’s manufacturing industry.”

PG&E provides natural gas and electric services across Northern and Central California, supporting the energy needs of more than 16 million people. The utility has over 105,000 circuit miles of electric distribution lines and 42,141 miles of natural gas distribution pipelines.

“We are incredibly excited to partner with CMTA as we look to engage with and support our manufacturing and technology customers,” said Aaron Johnson, Senior Vice President at PG&E. “These companies are the foundation of California’s economic engine, and we are honored to help them thrive.”

Acena Consulting is a premier tax consultancy that specializes in areas such as the R&D Tax Credit and Cost Segregation, helping businesses maximize financial opportunities. The company is committed to supporting the manufacturing industry and contributing to the economic vitality of California through their work.

“We are excited to join CMTA and contribute to their mission of supporting and growing California’s vibrant manufacturing sector,” said Nick Pyzow, Director at Acena Consulting. “We believe our expertise will be a valuable resource for CMTA members looking to optimize their financial performance.”

By bringing PG&E’s energy solutions and Acena’s tax consulting expertise into the fold, CMTA members will have access to critical resources that will help them streamline operations, stay competitive, and push the boundaries of innovation in California’s manufacturing sector.

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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 CMTA’s website.

About PG&E

Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE: PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than sixteen million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news.

About Acena Consulting

Acena Consulting is a tax consultancy firm specializing in helping businesses maximize tax deductions and leverage financial opportunities. Their services include R&D Tax Credit Support and Cost Segregation. For more information, visit Acena’s website.

California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) Kicks Off Manufacturing Month

California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) Kicks Off Manufacturing Month

Sacramento, Calif.The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) kicked off the start of a month-long celebration to recognize California’s 30,000 manufacturers. October is known as Manufacturing Month, with the first Friday of October, October 4, 2024, named as MFG Day nationwide by The Manufacturing Institute.

Manufacturing is one of California’s largest industry sectors, accounting for 11.8% of the state’s GDP. The CMTA works to promote the reality of modern manufacturing in California, which employs 1.3 million people.

“Manufacturing is growing: The jobs available in the industry are highly skilled, and highly technical as the goods produced adapt to our new world, but we are facing a workforce crisis,” said Lance Hastings, CMTA’s CEO & President. “This month is a way to highlight the clean, high-paying jobs available in manufacturing and shine a spotlight on the opportunities for the next generation of makers.”

Manufacturing is not only good for the economy, but the California Assembly’s Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy has labeled it a “gold standard” for jobs, “because of the higher wages paid to workers, the inclusion of small businesses within its extended supply chains, and the high multiplier effect on their local communities and across the state.” The average annual salary for a manufacturing worker in the state is $143,515. The Milken Institute estimates that for every job created in manufacturing, 2.5 jobs are created in other sectors.

It is imperative to highlight manufacturers of all sizes during the month of October. Our small and medium-sized makers account for a large portion of the industry, with 64% of the state’s manufacturers having 25 employees or fewer.

Throughout the month of October, manufacturers across California and the country celebrate the industry that is vital to our economy and communities. The CMTA will celebrate Manufacturing Month at its 2nd Annual MakingCA Conference & “Coolest Thing Made in California” Awards Ceremony on Friday, October 18, 2024.

To raise up the next generation of manufacturers, the CMTA hosts an Annual CMTA Foundation Golf Tournament that has helped raise tens of thousands for scholarships to benefit students to pursue a career in the manufacturing industry. This year will be the third year of the tournament.

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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 CMTA’s website.

Solano Economic Development Corporation and California Manufacturers & Technology Association Announce Strategic Partnership

Solano Economic Development Corporation and California Manufacturers & Technology Association Announce Strategic Partnership

Sacramento, Calif.The Solano Economic Development Corporation and the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) announced today it is entering a strategic partnership to bridge the gap of state and local resources for advanced manufacturing companies in the region.

Acknowledging Solano County’s decisive role in advancing manufacturers to the region, CMTA aims to support the businesses making California. Solano County employs over 12,000 manufacturing employees across 270 companies in the region, according to the most recent data. As Solano’s manufacturing scene continues to grow, CMTA will also play a pivotal role in supporting Solano County’s Advanced Manufacturing Plan to ensure strong benefits and seamless processes to bring new manufacturers to the region.

“Supporting our state’s local manufacturing ecosystems are imperative to keeping manufacturing jobs in California,” said Lance Hastings, CMTA’s CEO & President. “This collaborative partnership marks a major advancement in our commitment to support Solano and the state’s economic growth.”

Solano County is known as being the Bay Area’s trade corridor for goods and services, and this directly correlates to its strong manufacturing base of advanced materials, biotechnology and biomedical, and food and beverage. Many CMTA members are located in the region, including Anheuser-Busch, Jelly Belly Candy Company, and Valero Energy Corporation.

“We are thrilled to officially finalize our partnership with the CMTA as it marks a major step forward in strengthening Solano County’s manufacturing ecosystem,” said Chris Rico, Solano EDC’s President & CEO. “This collaboration aligns with our advanced manufacturing strategy, a key recommendation from our Moving Solano Forward 3 economic study, and supports our mission to create local jobs that reduce the need for long commutes for our residents. Together with CMTA, we are excited to empower our manufacturers with the resources they need to thrive and succeed.”

In a collaborative effort, all new CMTA members within the Solano region will automatically receive a Solano EDC membership, allowing their companies to gain CMTA membership benefits and Solano EDC support.

CMTA represents over 400 businesses across the state, with benefits including but are not limited to; access to our government relations team advocating manufacturing priorities in Sacramento, money-saving programs for employee training through the Employment Training Panel (ETP), and engagement with local industry leaders through events and networking opportunities.

Solano EDC benefits include but are not limited to; confidential site location assistance to new businesses looking to locate to the region, city and county, access and guidance for permitting and economic development needs, and participation in the Solano EDC Manufacturing Task Force.

By leveraging the organization’s resources, Solano EDC and CMTA are poised to empower manufacturers across the region. CMTA and Solano EDC will be working closely to keep manufacturers informed, provide state and local resources, and provide a unified network for businesses in the region. Learn more about the partnership here.

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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 CMTA’s website.

About Solano Economic Development Corporation

Solano EDC’s mission is to positively impact the economic growth of Solano County by maintaining and enhancing a competitive location for businesses to expand and locate, providing direct service to scale local traded sector industries, attracting new jobs and investment, and connecting businesses with resources to meet their needs. The EDC collaborates with the cities, county, workforce development, utilities, and education to deliver all resources. For more information, visit Solano Economic Development Corporation’s website.

CMTA’S President & CEO Releases Statement on Passage of AB 98 (J. Carrillo)

Sacramento, Calif. – California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) President and CEO, Lance Hastings, released the following statement on the passage of Assembly Bill 98 (J. Carrillo), the statewide mandate on warehouse operations.

“On Sunday evening, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 98, a bill regulating logistics and warehouse facility development, passed by the Legislature without consulting manufacturers. The provisions of AB 98 were revealed in the last few days of the legislative session, receiving very little review prior to passage.

 

Despite its aim to address environmental concerns, AB 98 imposes strict and ambiguous restrictions on facility locations, posing significant challenges to California’s 30,000 manufacturers, who often operate as temporary warehouses by moving and storing products on-site. Most business organizations opposed the bill due to its broad and detrimental impact on an already costly regulatory landscape. The rigid mandates will adversely affect industries beyond warehousing and may lead to job losses, ultimately harming the economy.

 

In their joint statement, the California Chamber of Commerce, California Retailers Association, California Restaurant Association, and California Apartment Association praised the bill as a sensible compromise. However, this perspective overlooks the reality that AB 98 imposes severe constraints that could stifle economic growth and innovation. The claim that it avoids negative impacts is misguided; the bill will instead exacerbate the challenges faced by our manufacturers.

 

The Governor has now vetoed manufacturing’s top priority (AB 52) and signed manufacturing’s biggest threat (AB 98). The California Manufacturers & Technology Association advocates for a more strategic approach to achieving the state’s environmental goals while supporting economic growth. We will propose legislation next year to minimize the impact of AB 98 on manufacturers across the state. We need leaders who backs manufacturing with more than just words—too much is at stake for California’s economy.”

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About CMTA

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) 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 CMTA’s website.

CMTA’s CEO & President Releases Statement on Gov. Gavin Newsom Vetoing Manufacturing Tax Credit, AB 52 (Grayson)

CMTA’s CEO & President Releases Statement on Gov. Gavin Newsom Vetoing Manufacturing Tax Credit, AB 52 (Grayson)

Sacramento, Calif. – Late Friday evening, California Governor Gavin Newsom returned AB 52 (Grayson) to the Legislature without his signature. This bill would have provided an investment tax credit for the purchase of manufacturing equipment.

In his veto message, Governor Newsom stated this bill would have a significant impact on the state general fund and should be considered in the annual budget process.

California Manufacturers & Technology Association CEO and President Lance Hastings released this statement in response to the veto:

“On behalf of the California Manufacturers & Technology Association, the 30,000 manufacturers and 1.3 million workers in the sector, we are extremely disappointed in Governor Newsom for not supporting this much-needed legislation after it was passed unanimously by both houses of the Legislature. This is the second time he has vetoed a manufacturer’s investment tax credit within the last two years and over that time we have sought to work with the Administration to highlight, promote, and expand manufacturing in California. His veto sends a strong and daunting signal to the rest of the country – and world – that manufacturing is not an economic priority in California.

 

By not aligning with 38 other states that already provide similar investment credits for manufacturers, California faces the real possibility of losing our top ranking in manufacturing, which would lead us slipping from the 5th largest economy in the world and falling behind in global competitiveness. We urge the Governor and Legislature to join us in a constructive dialogue about modernizing our tax framework to recognize that manufacturing and strong support of research and development, are essential to foster a robust manufacturing sector that drives job creation and economic growth. Let’s work together to cultivate an environment where California can thrive as a leader in manufacturing – starting immediately.”

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About CMTA

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) 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 CMTA’s website.

How AB 52, Manufacturing Tax Credit, Will Expand California Jobs

California manufacturing generates more than $394 billion annually and employs more than 1.3 million people with over 30,000 firms. Our manufacturers are the most significant contributor to the United States manufacturing industry, making up 11% of the manufacturing jobs in the nation and accounting for 14.5% of the national manufacturing GDP.

California can strengthen its leadership in innovation and manufacturing by investing in a manufacturing tax credit.

AB 52 (Grayson) transforms the current incentive landscape, making manufacturing investment in California far more competitive and bringing us in line with 38 other states that already cover the taxes on qualified manufacturing purchases.

Let’s end the trend of “Invent Here, Build There.”

Watch more about how AB 52 will benefit California’s manufacturing workforce here.

CMTA Government Relations Update: California Assembly Bill Would Create Tax Credit for Manufacturers

This month’s Government Relations Update video highlights crucial legislative developments for California’s manufacturing sector.
This proposed legislation, which aims to introduce a manufacturing tax credit for qualified manufacturing equipment and research and development (R&D) purchases, has recently cleared a critical hurdle, passing the Senate and Assembly Floors with unanimous support. It now moves to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk for a final signature. 

California is the nation’s leading state in manufacturing, boasting over 30,000 manufacturers who collectively employ more than 1.3 million people. However, the current economic conditions have not been favorable to the state’s manufacturers, particularly small to medium-sized ones. These businesses, which make up more than 70% of California’s manufacturing landscape, have faced increasing challenges due to the state’s high tax rates at the state and local levels.  

AB 52 represents a potential game-changer for these manufacturers. If signed into law by Gov. Newsom, this bill will provide much-needed financial relief to manufacturers by offering tax credits for crucial investments in manufacturing equipment and R&D. This could significantly reduce operational costs, making it a more attractive option for businesses to remain and expand their operations within the Golden State.  

AB 52 is projected to have a broader impact on California’s economy. The bill is expected to create approximately 163,000 new manufacturing jobs and generate up to $3.5 billion in new economic activity. The potential growth will benefit the manufacturing sector and contribute to the state’s overall economic vitality.  

Moreover, AB 52 aligns with California’s environmental goals. By making it more affordable for manufacturers to invest in carbon-neutralizing products and equipment, the bill supports the state’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint. AB 52 has the potential to help the state meet both its economic and environmental objectives, fostering a more sustainable industrial ecosystem.  

One of the most promising aspects of AB 52 is its potential to reverse the trend of “Invent Here, Build There,” a situation where innovations developed in California are manufactured elsewhere due to cost concerns. By reducing these financial burdens, the bill encourages manufacturers to keep their operations within the state, allowing them to excel and contribute to California’s long-standing tradition of innovation.

Do you want to get exclusive government relations insights from CMTA?  📲 Reach out to members@cmta.net.

Manufacturing Minute: Northrop Grumman’s Historic Launch of its Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission in California

Manufacturing Minute: Northrop Grumman’s Historic Launch of its Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission in California

In this week’s Manufacturing Minute, we highlight three significant developments in the manufacturing sector. Manufacturing Minute is released bi-weekly by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association and is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.

Watch the latest episode in the video player above. 

 

Northrop Grumman ASBM Constellation Launch 

Photo Courtesy of Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman successfully launched Space Norway’s Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission (ASBM) constellation onboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. The launch happened on Sunday, August 11, 2024. 

This mission represents a historic collaboration between Space Norway and the U.S. Space Force, marking the first time an operational U.S. military payload has been hosted on an international commercial space mission. The ASBM constellation, consisting of two satellites in a highly elliptical orbit, will provide secure and reliable communications in the critical Arctic region, serving both commercial and military needs. This milestone reinforces Northrop Grumman’s leadership in satellite communications, with the ASBM being their 48th mission using GEOStar space vehicles.

 

Nikon’s California Manufacturing Center Supporting Aerospace Industries

 

Photo Courtesy of Nikon | Nikon AM Technology Center in Long Beach, California

Next, Nikon has made a notable advancement with the launch of its Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center in Long Beach, California. This 90,000-square-foot facility is dedicated to design and metal additive manufacturing services, catering to aviation, aerospace, and defense clients, as well as contract manufacturers. The center, which employs 52 staff members, also serves as the global headquarters for Nikon’s advanced manufacturing subsidiary.  

Established in April 2023, this subsidiary oversees the scaling and management of Nikon’s additive manufacturing business. Later this year, Nikon SLM Solutions AG will open the Nikon SLM Solutions Studios at the center, integrating laser powder bed fusion technology and Nikon-developed 3D printing solutions to enhance metallurgy and metrology capabilities.

 

Coolest Thing Made in California” Contest: Popular Round 

 

CoolestThingCalifornia.com | Popular Round 8/19 – 8/22

Lastly, CMTA has kicked off its second annual “Coolest Thing Made in California” contest, featuring over 135 California-made products. This competition highlights the significant role of manufacturing in California’s economy, which employs 1.3 million people and contributes $310 billion to the state’s annual GDP.  

The public voting phase, known as the “Popular Round,” will take place from Monday, August 19 to Thursday, August 22. During this period, members of the public can vote up to five times per day, per device, by visiting CoolestThingCalifornia.com. The Popular Round votes will determine the Top 16 products that will advance in the competition. Stay tuned!  

💡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. 

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