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. 

Manufacturing in the News: June 2025

Read CMTA's round-up of manufacturing-related news from June 2025. The articles below don’t reflect the views of the manufacturing industry or CMTA. They are a collection of the latest industry news from this past month.   Latest Industry News   New Fire...

Manufacturing in the News: May 2025

Scroll through CMTA's round-up of manufacturing-related news and updates from May 2025. The articles below don’t reflect the views of the manufacturing industry or CMTA. They are a collection of the latest industry news from this past month.   Latest Industry...

Manufacturing in the News: April 2025

Scroll through CMTA's round-up of manufacturing-related news and updates from April 2025. The articles below don’t reflect the views of the manufacturing industry or CMTA. They are a collection of the latest industry news from this past month.   Latest Industry...

Press Releases

Manufacturing in the News: June 2025

Manufacturing in the News: June 2025

Read CMTA’s round-up of manufacturing-related news from June 2025. The articles below don’t reflect the views of the manufacturing industry or CMTA. They are a collection of the latest industry news from this past month.

 

Latest Industry News

 

New Fire Retardant Production Facility Opens in Northern California

 

Perimeter Solutions, a company known for making fire retardant, opened a state-of-the-art production facility at McClellan Park in Northern California. Their fire retardant is often deployed from aircraft during wildfires. This new plant signals a focus on Northern California’s wildfire preparedness and response.

Read more from KCRA

 

Northrop Grumman to Expand Use of NVIDIA AI Technology for Space Solutions

 

CMTA board member company Northrop Grumman announced an expanded use of NVIDIA technology to advance spacecraft operations. The goal is to apply NVIDIA’s advanced AI tech for new and more complex missions, with quicker planning and lower operating costs. NVIDIA is based in Santa Clara, CA.

Read more from Northrop Grumman

 

CMTA Members Recognized by Newsweek as “America’s Greenest Companies”

 

Two CMTA member companies headquartered in California were recognized in Newsweek’s “America’s Greenest Companies” list for 2025. Congratulations to Amgen and The Clorox Company! Newsweek partners with Plant-A Insights and GIST Impact to determine and highlight U.S. companies committed to reducing their environmental impact in key areas like greenhouse gas emissions, water management, and waste reduction.

Read more from Newsweek

 

IBM Develops AI-Powered Tool to Identify PFAS

 

IBM, a company headquartered in San Francisco, announced the development and implementation of an AI-powered PFAS screening tool. The tool assists in identifying and eliminating fluorochemicals from research operations, according to a news release from IBM. While the screener cannot guarantee a product is PFAS-free, it reduces errors and suggests viable alternatives for “forever chemicals” if available.

Read more from IBM Research

 

Yuba College’s Manufacturing Team Receives National Recognition

A three-student manufacturing team from Yuba College in Marysville, CA made it to the top four in the nation in the Project MFG Advanced Manufacturing Competition. This prestigious tournament places students in real-world manufacturing work situations, highlighting their skills as the next generation of American manufacturers.

Read more from Lake County News

 

Manufacturing Industry Policy

 

Supreme Court Rules Fuel Producers Can Legally Challenge California Emission Standards

 

In a 7-2 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a group of fuel producers—including Valero Energy subsidiary, Diamond Alternative Energy, and other fuel industry trade groups—can move ahead with a legal challenge to California’s vehicle emissions standards. The lawsuit centers on a 2022 Environmental Protection Agency waiver.

Read more from CNN

 

Major CEQA Reform Included in State Budget

 

California State Capitol and Flag

On June 30, Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation promising changes to the 1970 California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), with many housing advocates in support. The reforms will also exempt advanced manufacturing facilities in industrial areas, which some legislators hope will spur more electronics and semiconductor production throughout the state.

Read more from KQED

Manufacturing Minute: Amazon Opens New Zoox Robotaxi Factory in California

Manufacturing Minute: Amazon Opens New Zoox Robotaxi Factory in California

From electric robotaxis in the Bay Area to expanded aerial intelligence in Southern California, this week’s Manufacturing Minute, powered by Tri Tool Technologies, spotlights the latest wave of innovation shaping U.S. manufacturing.  

This week’s Manufacturing Minute features General Motors (GM) announcing a $4 billion investment to boost domestic vehicle production, Amazon’s Zoox announcing a state-of-the-art robotaxi production facility in Hayward, CA, and Quantum Systems opening a cutting-edge manufacturing site in Moorpark, CA.

 

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

 

General Motors Doubles Down on U.S. Manufacturing 

 

AP Photo/Carlos Osorio, File

First, General Motors has announced plans to invest $4 billion over the next two years in three manufacturing plants—including Orion Assembly in Michigan, Fairfax Assembly in Kansas, and Spring Hill Manufacturing in Tennessee—to boost U.S. production of both gas and electric vehicles. This expansion will allow GM to assemble more than two million vehicles per year in the U.S. and follows a separate $888 million investment in its Tonawanda Propulsion plant in New York. The Orion plant, originally being retooled for electric pickups, will now also produce gas-powered SUVs and light-duty trucks starting in 2027. Meanwhile, Factory ZERO will focus solely on electric models, such as the Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV, while Fairfax and Spring Hill will handle models including the Chevrolet Equinox, Blazer, and Bolt EV. GM currently employs nearly one million people across 50 plants in 19 states. 

 

Amazon Opens a New California Robotaxi Factory 

 

Photo Courtesy: Zoox

Amazon is moving full speed ahead in autonomous vehicle production with the opening of a 220,000-square-foot robotaxi factory in Hayward, CA. The facility, operated by Zoox—Amazon’s self-driving startup acquired in 2020—marks the first purpose-built robotaxi production site in the U.S. Once fully operational, it will have the capacity to produce more than 10,000 robotaxis annually. The Zoox brand plans to begin transporting customers in Las Vegas later this year, with plans to expand into San Francisco in 2026. Local leaders have praised the project for bringing high-paying, high-skilled jobs and creating educational and economic opportunities for the region. The Hayward investment reflects Amazon’s broader push into the autonomous vehicle market and positions the Bay Area as a hub for mobility innovation.

 

Quantum Systems Brand New Facility in Southern California

 

Photo Courtesy: Quantum Systems

Finally, Quantum Systems has officially opened its new 135,000-square-foot U.S. production and integration facility in Moorpark, CA, signaling a major expansion of its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aerial intelligence capabilities. The facility will support Quantum Systems’ growing operations in North and Latin America, with plans to employ over 100 professionals in the region by the end of 2025. Outfitted with secure manufacturing lines, R&D labs, flight operations, and administrative offices, the site will streamline development and production of the company’s Family of Systems—Vector AI, Twister, and Reliant. The new location consolidates all U.S. operations under one roof and replaces Quantum Systems’ previous sites in Moorpark. With a global presence in countries such as Germany, Ukraine, and Australia, this move enhances the company’s ability to quickly respond to evolving mission requirements for its defense and security partners.

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

Manufacturing Minute: Stratolaunch Achieves Hypersonic Flight Milestone in California

Manufacturing Minute: Stratolaunch Achieves Hypersonic Flight Milestone in California

From record-breaking speed in the stratosphere to clean propulsion in the harbor, California is powering the future of manufacturing. This week’s Manufacturing Minute powered by Tri Tool Technologies features Marine Group Boat Works’ electrification of its diesel yard tug, Stratolaunch’s successful reusable hypersonic flight, and Siemens Healthineers’ $150 million investment to expand U.S. operations and relocate production from Mexico to California.  

These developments underscore the state’s leadership in sustainability, aerospace, and advanced medical technology. 

 

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

 

Marine Group Boat Works Launches First Electric Yard Tug 

 

Photo Courtesy of Marine Group Boat Works

First, Marine Group Boat Works (MGBW), a family-owned shipbuilder based in Chula Vista, California, has completed San Diego’s first conversion of a diesel yard tugboat to fully electric propulsion. The tug, MARCO V, was retrofitted with a state-of-the-art electric operating system, offering comparable performance to diesel engines while producing zero emissions. This initiative demonstrates MGBW’s commitment to sustainability, complementing its already electric-heavy fleet and upcoming 750kW solar installation—set to make it the only solar-powered boatbuilder in California. With over 2,000 labor hours invested in the project, MARCO V now serves as a working model for scalable, cost-effective electric tug repowers, advancing California’s goal for zero-emission propulsion systems by 2035.

 

Stratolaunch Reaches Hypersonic Milestone 

 

Photo Courtesy of Stratolaunch

Stratolaunch, an aerospace company headquartered in California, has successfully completed its second hypersonic test flight and recovery with the Talon-A2 (TA-2) vehicle, confirming its reusability and performance at speeds exceeding Mach 5. The March 2025 mission builds on the success of a similar flight and recovery in December 2024, further advancing the U.S.’s capacity for reusable hypersonic systems since the end of the X-15 program in 1968. Conducted in partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense’s MACH-TB program and Leidos, these test flights are designed to accelerate hypersonic development timelines. CEO Dr. Zachary Krevor praised the team’s achievements, which included executing multiple Roc and Talon-A test flights within a single year. 

 

Siemens Healthineers Invest $150M in US Manufacturing 

 

Photo Courtesy of Siemens Healthineers

Finally, Siemens Healthineers announced a $150 million investment to expand its U.S. operations, including relocating manufacturing for its radiation oncology unit, Varian, from Mexico to Palo Alto, California. The move is expected to create 50 new jobs and simplify the company’s supply chain, especially as it faces tariff pressures from both European and Mexican imports. In addition to this relocation, Siemens is investing $141 million in a new Experience Center in North Carolina to strengthen research and innovation efforts in the U.S. These investments are part of the company’s strategy to mitigate international trade impacts and respond more efficiently to demand for its advanced radiotherapy solutions. 

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

Manufacturing in the News: May 2025

Manufacturing in the News: May 2025

Scroll through CMTA’s round-up of manufacturing-related news and updates from May 2025. The articles below don’t reflect the views of the manufacturing industry or CMTA. They are a collection of the latest industry news from this past month.

 

Latest Industry News

 

Archer Set to Open Meat Snacks Factory in Vernon

 

Fast-growing Southern California snack food company, Archer, opened its second manufacturing facility in Vernon, CA. It will employ more than 200 people when it officially opens in September. Archer is taking over what was once a Farmer John’s processing plant, which made ham, sausage, and hot dogs.

Read more from the Los Angeles Times

 

Amazon Ramps Up Robotaxi Manufacturing in East Bay

 

Amazon’s self-driving start-up Zoox plans to increase production in 2026, ahead of a commercial rollout of a robotaxi fleet in the U.S. Zoox’s co-founder said the company will open a new site in the Bay Area to expand beyond its existing production facility in Fremont.

Read more from The Economic Times

 

Caulipuffs Now Flies on American Airlines

 

CMTA member CauliPuffs announced its snacks are officially on American Airlines. The airline now carries White Cheddar CauliPuffs for travelers nationwide. The company is based in Salinas and bakes their tasty snacks in Northern California.

Read more on LinkedIn 

 

California Dairies Opens New Factory in Bakersfield

CMTA member California Dairies Inc. announced the opening of the Valley Natural Beverages milk processing plant in Bakersfield. According to the company, the 200,000-square-foot plant is the most technologically advanced processing facility in the world. Statewide leaders including Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis gathered to celebrate the industry’s announcement in Kern County.

Read more from KBET

 

Manufactured Home Developments Grow Amid Housing Crisis

 

A mobile home development in Visalia held its grand opening, featuring new manufactured homes by Southern California based company Family Homes. The manufactured homes have a 175-year life span, far surpassing the average 30-year life span of a conventional mobile home.

Read more from The Business Journal

 

Manufacturing Industry Policy

 

SB 587 on Manufacturer Tax Credits Moves Forward

 

Senate Bill 587 (Grayson) on manufacturer tax credits—a CMTA maker bill—was voted out of the Senate Appropriations Committee and will move forward through the legislative process. CMTA’s Government Relations team is closely monitoring this bill due to its significance for California manufacturers. You can view CMTA’s bill tracker here.

Read the bill text

Manufacturing Minute: Anheuser-Busch Invests $300M in U.S. Manufacturing

Manufacturing Minute: Anheuser-Busch Invests $300M in U.S. Manufacturing

Anheuser-Busch is investing $300 million in U.S. manufacturing, continuing its 165-year legacy of American production. This week’s Manufacturing Minute highlights how CMTA member companies Anheuser-Busch and John Deere, along with the Small Business Administration, are driving growth and innovation across the domestic manufacturing sector. 

 

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

 

Anheuser-Busch Announces $300M Investment Across U.S. Facilities

 

Photo Courtesy of Anheuser-Busch

First, Anheuser-Busch announced a $300 million investment in its manufacturing operations nationwide for 2025. This investment builds on nearly $2 billion spent over the past five years to enhance facilities, advance technology, and grow the workforce. A key focus of this initiative, called Brewing Futures, is expanding the company’s Technical Excellence Centers, including a new regional facility in Columbus, Ohio, aimed at upskilling employees and opening doors to trade school students and educators. Anheuser-Busch is also pioneering veteran workforce support by partnering with the Manufacturing Institute’s Heroes MAKE America program and adopting a digital credentialing system to translate military skills into manufacturing careers. 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.

 

John Deere Commits $20 Billion to Expand U.S. Manufacturing

 

Photo Courtesy of John Deere

John Deere reaffirmed its commitment to U.S. manufacturing with a pledge to invest $20 billion over the next decade. CEO John May emphasized that the investment will support workforce development, facility upgrades, and manufacturing expansions across more than a dozen states. This plan builds on Deere’s $2.5 billion investment since 2019 and includes $100 million dedicated to U.S. facilities in 2025 alone. Despite challenges and some operations moving overseas, John Deere currently employs 30,000 people in the U.S. and has a significant economic impact on its hometown communities. The company also continues to prioritize veteran hiring and diversity initiatives as part of its broader workforce development efforts. 

 

Small Business Administration Boosts ‘Made in America’ Manufacturing with New Funding

 

The United States Capitol

Finally, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is ramping up support for small and mid-sized manufacturers through new funding and training opportunities. As part of its Made in America Manufacturing Initiative, the SBA will award up to $1.1 million to three organizations that provide business courses, hands-on training, and consulting to small manufacturers nationwide. The agency is also working to reduce regulatory burdens and expand financing options, including proposed legislation to increase small business loan limits from $5 million to $10 million. These efforts aim to strengthen the manufacturing sector by helping smaller companies grow their operations and workforce in today’s competitive market.

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

J&J, Caterpillar Inc., and Novartis Invest in U.S. Manufacturing: Manufacturing Minute

J&J, Caterpillar Inc., and Novartis Invest in U.S. Manufacturing: Manufacturing Minute

This week’s Manufacturing Minute highlights CMTA members leading the way with major investments and advancements in workforce development, U.S. manufacturing, and pharmaceutical innovation.

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

 

Caterpillar Inc. Pledges $100M to Upskill Workforce for the AI Era

 

Lafayette – Circa May 2020: Caterpillar Logistics Service Center. Cat Logistics provides supply chain solutions to Caterpillar Inc.

Caterpillar Inc., a leader in construction and mining equipment, is committing $100 million over the next five years to upskill its workforce in response to rapid technological advancements. With the global labor market evolving, particularly due to robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI), Caterpillar plans to train workers in these critical areas, including digital twins and machine learning models. This initiative is part of the company’s broader effort to address the manufacturing skills gap and prepare its workforce for the demands of the future, which will include a greater need for both technology-related skills and human-centered skills like leadership and social influence. 

 

Johnson & Johnson Increases U.S. Investment to More Than $55B

 

New Brunswick, NJ, USA. May 2, 2022. Editorial Use Only, 3D CGI. Johnson & Johnson Signage Logo on Top of Glass Building. Workplace of Pharmaceutical Industry Company Office Headquarters.

In other news, Johnson & Johnson has announced a significant increase in its U.S. investments, pledging more than $55 billion over the next four years. This investment, which includes plans to break ground on a $2 billion facility in North Carolina, aims to expand the company’s manufacturing, research, and development capabilities. The funds will support the creation of four new advanced manufacturing facilities, as well as the expansion of existing sites, which will generate thousands of high-paying jobs. Additionally, Johnson & Johnson is focusing on investments in R&D to develop life-saving treatments in critical areas such as oncology, immunology, and robotic surgery, further solidifying its commitment to American innovation and manufacturing. 

 

Novartis Plans to Invest $23B in U.S. Manufacturing

 

Meanwhile, pharmaceutical giant Novartis is making a $23 billion commitment to build and expand 10 manufacturing and R&D facilities in the U.S. over the next five years. In response to renewed drug tariff threats from the Trump administration, Novartis will invest in new manufacturing plants, including some for producing raw pharmaceutical ingredients, and a new R&D center in San Diego, California. This investment will create more than 5,000 jobs, including positions for engineers, scientists, and support staff. The expansion highlights Novartis’ commitment to the U.S. market while also addressing the challenges posed by potential drug import duties, demonstrating a continued push to bolster its manufacturing presence in the country. 

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

Manufacturing in the News: April 2025

Scroll through CMTA’s round-up of manufacturing-related news and updates from April 2025. The articles below don’t reflect the views of the manufacturing industry or CMTA. They are a collection of the latest industry news from this past month.

 

Latest Industry News

 

Nokia Set to Establish New Manufacturing Center in San Jose

 

Nokia announced plans to establish a photonic semiconductor manufacturing center. This new production facility has the potential to create hundreds of new jobs in the Bay Area.

Read more on SiliconValley.com

 

Novartis Announces $23 Billion Investment in U.S. Manufacturing

 

Novartis, a Swiss drugmaker, announced plans to establish a biomedical research hub in San Diego, CA, with 10 new manufacturing facilities in the works as well. The company said it will invest $23 billion in U.S.-based manufacturing and research and development over the next five years.

Read more on Yahoo! Finance

 

Nvidia to Manufacture AI Chips in the U.S. for the First Time

 

Nvidia announced it will make its artificial intelligence super computers in the U.S. for the first time. The Santa Clara-based company said it has commissioned more than 1 million square feet of manufacturing space to make specialized chips. The company estimates it will produce up to half a trillion dollars of AI infrastructure in the next four years.

Read more on Yahoo! Finance

 

Manufacturing Industry Policy

 

CMTA Update: Government Relations Team Announces 2025 Maker and Breaker Bills

 

In March, CMTA’s Government Relations team announced the organization’s Maker and Breaker bills for the 2025 legislative session. We are closely monitoring these bills and others, and advocating on behalf of California’s manufacturers at the State Capitol.

Read more on cmta.net

 

Governor Newsom Directs Administration to Pursue New International Trade Relationships

 

In early April, Governor Gavin Newsom directed his Administration to pursue new trade relationships with international partners in an effort to protect California’s manufacturers, workers, farmers, businesses and supply chains. The Governor has called on long-standing trade partners to exempt California-made products from retaliatory measures.

Read more from the Governor’s Office

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

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

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. 

Tesla Prepares for Optimus Bot Production in California: Manufacturing Minute: Manufacturing Minute

Tesla Prepares for Optimus Bot Production in California: Manufacturing Minute: Manufacturing Minute

This week’s Manufacturing Minute highlights key advancements in robotics, aerospace, and AI-driven manufacturing. 

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

 

Tesla’s Optimus Bot Production at Fremont Facility 

Photo Courtesy of Sundry Photography

Tesla, a CMTA member, is expanding its robotics division, hiring engineers at its Fremont factory to advance production of the Optimus humanoid robot. The company has listed at least 12 new positions, signaling momentum in its automation efforts. CEO Elon Musk recently stated that Tesla could build up to 10,000 robots this year, with deliveries beginning in 2026. As the company scales production, Musk estimates that once output reaches one million units annually, the Optimus bot could be priced as low as $20,000. This expansion marks Tesla’s strategic move to diversify beyond electric vehicles and tap into emerging automation markets. 

Honeywell Splits into Three Focused Companies 

 

Photo Courtesy of Robert

Honeywell International, a CMTA board member company, has announced plans to streamline its portfolio by spinning off its aerospace and automation divisions into independent public companies. Honeywell Automation will focus on industrial technologies and software to enhance productivity, while Honeywell Aerospace will continue supplying propulsion, cockpit, and navigation systems for commercial and defense aircraft. The split, set for completion in late 2026, follows Honeywell’s earlier decision to separate its advanced materials business, further refining its focus on automation, aviation technology, and clean energy. These strategic moves position the company for long-term growth in high-tech manufacturing sectors. 

Stellantis Leverages AI for Automotive Innovation  

 

Photo Courtesy of piter2121

In another major development, Stellantis, a CMTA board member and the world’s fourth-largest automaker, is expanding its strategic AI partnership with Mistral AI. This collaboration aims to revolutionize vehicle engineering, enhance in-car experiences, and optimize manufacturing operations through AI-driven innovation. Leveraging Mistral AI’s expertise in large language models and automation, Stellantis plans to strengthen data analysis, streamline product development, and improve customer interactions. A key initiative includes developing an advanced AI-powered in-car assistant to provide real-time, conversational support for drivers. As automakers increasingly integrate AI to refine manufacturing processes and accelerate innovation, this partnership reinforces Stellantis’s leadership in AI-driven automotive advancements. 

 

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

PG&E CEO Announced as Keynote Speaker at CMTA’s Annual Membership & Board of Directors Meeting: Manufacturing Minute

PG&E CEO Announced as Keynote Speaker at CMTA’s Annual Membership & Board of Directors Meeting: Manufacturing Minute

This week’s Manufacturing Minute highlights key developments shaping the future of manufacturing and innovation. 

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

 

CEO of PG&E Announced as CMTA Annual Meeting Keynote Speaker

 

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association is proud to welcome Patti Poppe, CEO of Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), as the keynote speaker for the CMTA Annual Membership & Board of Directors Meeting. With extensive leadership experience at CMS Energy, DTE Energy, and General Motors, Patti brings invaluable insights into the evolving energy landscape. Beyond her role at PG&E, she serves on multiple industry boards, shaping the future of energy and infrastructure. 

This two-day event, taking place March 26-27, 2025, at the Parker Palm Springs, will bring together CMTA members, legislators, and business leaders to discuss the state of manufacturing in California. Patti will share her expertise on energy transformation and its impact on the industry, alongside other distinguished speakers addressing key trends and innovations shaping the sector. 

 

Stratolaunch’s $24.7M Hypersonic Flight Agreement 

 

Photo Courtesy of Stratolaunch

In another major aerospace industry development, CMTA member Stratolaunch has been awarded a $24.7 million competitive agreement by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) to support national defense through a cutting-edge hypersonic flight mission.  

This funding will enable modifications to Stratolaunch’s Spirit of Mojave 747 launch platform, expanding the reach of its reusable Talon-A hypersonic vehicle to global locations. Set for the fourth quarter of 2025, the test mission will enhance the United States’ ability to develop and refine missile defense systems against emerging hypersonic threats. Stratolaunch’s advancements in hypersonic technology reinforce its position as a leader in national security innovation.

 

ZM Trucks Announces First U.S. Manufacturing Plant 

 

Photo courtesy of ZM Trucks

Rounding out this week’s news, ZM Trucks, North America’s newest zero-emissions commercial truck brand, has announced the establishment of its first North American manufacturing plant in Fontana, California.  

This milestone also marks the relocation of its regional headquarters to the 210,000-square-foot facility, further cementing its commitment to sustainable transportation solutions. The new plant will serve as the foundation for ZM Trucks’ U.S. operations, producing electric commercial trucks, terminal tractors, and airport ground service equipment. With production set to begin in the first half of 2025, ZM Trucks is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing clean energy transportation across the country. 

 

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

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