Energy
Reliable, affordable, and diversified energy is critical to manufacturing and California’s ability to compete in the global marketplace. California manufacturers are the leaders in developing and producing clean energy technologies that can assist the state in meeting its future efficiency goals.
Schneider Electric Joins CMTA
Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new member Schneider Electric to the organization today. Schneider Electric is a global industrial technology leader and a powerhouse of energy distribution, industrial...
Leading Developer in Energy Storage Solutions Joins CMTA
Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new member Convergent Energy and Power (Convergent) to the organization today. Convergent is a leading provider of energy storage solutions in North America. The...
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. https://youtu.be/mbhCd5z_rIA Watch the latest Manufacturing Minute episode in the video player above. CEO of PG&E Announced as CMTA Annual...
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...
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....
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...
Manufacturing Minute: California Selected as First State for Hydrogen Energy Hub Federal Funding
This week's Manufacturing Minute brings three exciting updates in the world of manufacturing and technology. Manufacturing Minute is released bi-weekly by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association and is powered by Tri Tool Technologies. ...
Manufacturing Minute: Union Pacific’s Big Boy Steam Locomotive Coming to California
This week's Manufacturing Minute brings exciting developments across the manufacturing sector in California from our CMTA members. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies. https://youtu.be/FIaKfyv4oSM Watch the latest episode in the video player...
Manufacturing Minute: Tandem PV Awarded $4.7 Million to Advance New Solar Technology
In this week's Manufacturing Minute, we highlight three significant developments in the manufacturing sector. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies. https://youtu.be/FbUPSHYhM0g U.S. Department of Energy Awards CMTA Member, Tandem PV, with New...
CMTA Government Relations Update: California’s Manufacturers May Lose a Major Training Program
This month’s Government Relations Update video highlights crucial legislative developments for California’s manufacturing sector. https://youtu.be/Dmj-DjtEur0 Both the Assembly and Senate have a huge deadline on Friday, May 24, 2024, to pass bills introduced in their...
Press Release
Schneider Electric Joins CMTA
Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new member Schneider Electric to the organization today.
Schneider Electric is a global industrial technology leader and a powerhouse of energy distribution, industrial optimization, and digitalization. The company works to create impact by empowering all to make the most of energy and resources. Schneider Electric transforms energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure with digital solutions and empowers customers in states like California to measure, deliver, and save energy.
“I’m very excited to have Schneider Electric join CMTA as a member,” said Lance Hastings, President & CEO of CMTA. “Energy efficiency and sustainability are critical for the future of manufacturing and technology, and Schneider Electric’s leadership on these fronts reflects the future forward goals we work toward.”
“Schneider Electric develops and deploys innovative solutions critical to electrification, digitalization, and industrial optimization across all sectors of the economy,” said Michele Hix, Vice President of Strategic Customers at Schneider Electric North America. “Our technological expertise and commitment to next-generation manufacturing, coupled with CMTA’s advocacy for pro-growth policies, will help strengthen our ability to drive sustainable innovation in California.”
Schneider Electric has had a presence in the U.S. for more than 135 years and is a vital part of California’s efforts to lead the charge toward a more sustainable future. The company employs more than 900 team members across the state in Pleasanton, Menlo Park, Chino, Lake Forest, and Costa Mesa. The company’s government and community partnerships extend from installing a battery energy storage system at Marine Corps Air Station in Miramar to helping Modesto City Schools pioneer sustainability in education through installing charging infrastructure.
The company was recently ranked as one of Glassdoor’s Best Places to Work 2025, and the company is proud to be recognized as a 2025 Gold Military Friendly® employer.
In 2024, TIME magazine ranked Schneider Electric as the world’s most sustainable company.
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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 $2,500 higher than other non-farm employers in the state.
About Schneider Electric
Schneider’s purpose is to create impact by empowering all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability. At Schneider, we call this Life Is On.
Our mission is to be the trusted partner in Sustainability and Efficiency.
We are a global industrial technology leader bringing world-leading expertise in electrification, automation and digitalization to smart industries, resilient infrastructure, future-proof data centers, intelligent buildings, and intuitive homes. Anchored by our deep domain expertise, we provide integrated end-to-end lifecycle AI enabled Industrial IoT solutions with connected products, automation, software and services, delivering digital twins to enable profitable growth for our customers.
We are a people company with an ecosystem of 150,000 colleagues and more than a million partners operating in over 100 countries to ensure proximity to our customers and stakeholders. We embrace diversity and inclusion in everything we do, guided by our meaningful purpose of a sustainable future for all.
Leading Developer in Energy Storage Solutions Joins CMTA
Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new member Convergent Energy and Power (Convergent) to the organization today.
Convergent is a leading provider of energy storage solutions in North America. The organization has more than a decade of experience financing and managing the energy storage development cycle, which helps customers reduce electricity costs and increase reliability. The company’s commercial, industrial, and utility-scale assets can yield seven-figure savings while advancing the clean energy transition.
“We are thrilled to welcome Convergent to CMTA’s membership. Their team brings valuable expertise that will help California’s manufacturers navigate the evolving energy landscape,” said Lance Hastings, President & CEO of CMTA. “Reliable and cost-effective energy solutions are critical for maintaining a strong and competitive manufacturing sector, and Convergent’s commitment to innovation aligns with CMTA’s mission to support sustainable and resilient manufacturing in our state.”
Energy storage is crucial for a more flexible and resilient grid. It allows electrons to be stored during times of low demand and dispatched during times of high demand. More storage on the grid means lower grid peaks, and results in less power needed overall.
“The power grid is the single most expensive thing America has ever built, and it is not prepared to meet this moment of crisis, as defined by increasing electrification, urbanization, and extreme weather events,” said Johannes Ritterhausen, CEO of Convergent. “Energy storage, especially when paired with solar, is the answer to many of today’s challenges.”
Convergent has continually delivered many industry “firsts,” consistently proving that energy storage will contribute meaningfully to a clean energy future.
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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 $2,500 higher than other non-farm employers in the state.
About Convergent Energy and Power
Convergent Energy and Power (Convergent) is a leading provider of energy storage solutions in North America. Convergent has over a decade of experience financing and managing all aspects of the energy storage development cycle to help customers reduce electricity costs and increase reliability. The company’s commercial, industrial, and utility-scale assets can yield seven-figure savings while advancing the clean energy transition. Convergent’s proprietary asset management platform, PEAK IQ® leverages machine learning and deep market knowledge to optimize asset performance and maximize value. Convergent has over $1bn invested in or committed to assets in operation or under development across North America.
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.
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.
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 CMTA. “Nexamp provides a much-needed resource for our industry with onsite solar and energy storage solutions for companies across the country.”
Nexamp Solar develops, owns and operates solar farms and onsite generation and storage for commercial entities. Founded in 2007 by two U.S. Army veterans, Nexamp aims to build the future of energy to be clean, simple and accessible. Today, the company is a national leader in the clean energy space, offering storage and energy solutions for public and commercial use.
Nexamp owns and operates all its solar and storage projects and manages every stage of the process, including development, design, financing, construction, operation and maintenance, and energy sales.
“Nexamp is thrilled to join the CMTA to bring our onsite solar energy and battery storage solutions to more businesses across California,” said Brion Fitzpatrick, Vice President, Business Development of Nexamp. “With energy costs soaring and reliability challenges on the rise, Nexamp is ready to help California companies take control of their energy future. As the 2024 leader in distributed generation development and asset ownership nationwide, we’re excited to show CMTA members how we can deliver substantial savings while supporting their sustainability goals.”
As a nationwide company, Nexamp’s California team is ready to meet with CMTA members to discuss solutions for lowering energy costs, supporting reliability, and lowering our carbon footprint.
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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 Nexamp Solar
Nexamp is a developer, owner and operator of solar energy and energy storage assets. We provide onsite solar and energy storage solutions to utilities and commercial entities across the US. We develop onsite energy solutions to lower your annual energy costs and provide power where it is needed the most, all while meeting your sustainability goals. In 2023, WoodMac ranked Nexamp ‘The largest Community Solar developer and owner in the US’, with millions of acres of solar farms across the country providing solar energy to over 80,000 consumers and Fortune 500 companies. Nexamp also specializes in onsite generation and energy storage where we install on rooftops and carports for commercial and industrial clients. Learn more at Nexamp.com.
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.
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
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.
Manufacturing Minute: California Selected as First State for Hydrogen Energy Hub Federal Funding
This week’s Manufacturing Minute brings three exciting updates in the world of manufacturing and technology. Manufacturing Minute is released bi-weekly by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association and is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.
California Picked as the First State to Receive Funds For a Hydrogen Hub
A 2021 Toyota Prius that runs on a hydrogen fuel cell. | Photo Courtesy of David Zalubowski
California is set to become the first state to receive federal funds under a new program aimed at creating regional networks, or “hubs,” for hydrogen production. The U.S. Department of Energy announced that the California Hydrogen Hub will receive an initial $30 million for its planning and design phase, with up to $1.2 billion allocated for the project’s full implementation.
This initiative is part of the Biden Administration’s broader agenda to combat climate change by promoting clean hydrogen as a key energy source for vehicles, manufacturing, and electricity generation. These hydrogen hubs, spanning 16 states, are expected to attract over $40 billion in private investment and create tens of thousands of well-paying jobs, contributing significantly to the goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
“Coolest Thing Made in California” Contest
CMTA’s Vice President of Communications, Ananda Rochita, on CBS GoodDay Sacramento
Next, the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) has been actively promoting its 2nd Annual “Coolest Thing Made in California” Contest, powered by JPMorganChase. CMTA has been on several TV stations, including KCRA 3, ABC10, CBS GoodDay Sacramento, and Fox 40. The contest, which opened for nominations on July 29, will close on August 8, followed by a popular vote from August 12-15.
This exciting competition showcases the innovative spirit of California’s manufacturing sector, culminating in the announcement of the winner on October 18 at the CMTA’s MakingCA Conference. The contest aims to highlight and celebrate the ingenuity and craftsmanship of California manufacturers, fostering greater awareness and appreciation for the industry’s contributions to the state’s economy.
💡To learn more about CMTA’s Coolest Thing Made in California Contest, click here.
Developing New Aerospace Advancements in Kern County
Photo Courtesy of NASA | Neil A. Armstrong Flight Research Center
Lastly, significant legislative progress has been made with the inclusion of an amendment proposed by California Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) in the NASA Reauthorization Act of 2024.
This amendment authorizes the Making Advancements in Commercial Hypersonics (MACH) Program at NASA, which is designed to enhance scientific research and support high-speed flight technologies. The MACH Program will be developed locally at NASA Armstrong and in East Kern County, bolstering America’s leadership in aerospace innovation.
This development also aligns with the broader goals of the NASA Reauthorization Act, which allocates $25.2 billion to support initiatives such as the Artemis Program and Moon to Mars Program, furthering human space exploration and strengthening the aerospace industry. CMTA member Stratolaunch, a key player in aerospace vehicle and technology development, will benefit from this legislative support, driving forward advancements in hypersonic research and development.
Stay up to date with all manufacturing news by following CMTA on social media.
Manufacturing Minute: Union Pacific’s Big Boy Steam Locomotive Coming to California
This week’s Manufacturing Minute brings exciting developments across the manufacturing sector in California from our CMTA members. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.
Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 is Coming to California
Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 |Courtesy of Union Pacific
First, CMTA board member Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest steam locomotive, will be on display in Roseville on July 12-13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event, part of Union Pacific’s “Big Boy Westward Bound” tour, honors the rich legacy of Union Pacific while celebrating its employees and the communities it serves. The City of Roseville is enhancing the event with additional activities at Vernon Street Town Square on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., alongside a special exhibit at the Carnegie Museum in Old Town Roseville.
This historic locomotive, initially delivered in 1941 and retired in 1961 after traveling over a million miles, was restored in 2019 and is a testament to Union Pacific’s storied history and commitment to preservation.
PepsiCo Expands EV Fleet Across California
Tesla Class 8 Semi-Truck | Courtesy of PepsiCo
Next, PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA), CMTA’s newest member, is making significant strides in sustainable transportation by expanding its electric-powered fleet in California. The deployment of fifty Class 8 Tesla semi-trucks and seventy-five Ford E-Transit electric vans will revolutionize PBNA’s logistics operations. This initiative aligns with PepsiCo’s ambitious pep+ goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. This project is a part of California Climate Investments, supported by grants from the California Air Resources Board, the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District, and the California Energy Commission.
PepsiCo’s Fresno facility, a 170,000-square-foot manufacturing plant, is now equipped with advanced Tesla chargers and Megapack Battery Energy Storage Systems to support these new electric vehicles, marking a substantial step towards a greener future.
Stay up to date with all manufacturing news by following CMTA on social media.
Manufacturing Minute: Tandem PV Awarded $4.7 Million to Advance New Solar Technology
In this week’s Manufacturing Minute, we highlight three significant developments in the manufacturing sector. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.
U.S. Department of Energy Awards CMTA Member, Tandem PV, with New Funding
Courtesy of Tandem PV
CMTA member Tandem PV, a leader in perovskite solar technology, has been awarded $4.7 million by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO). This funding will support the commercialization of Tandem PV’s innovative thin-film solar photovoltaic technology. Combining conventional silicon solar cells with perovskite materials allows Tandem PV panels to achieve up to 40% more power than traditional panels. The Silicon Valley company is currently producing panels with 26% efficiency. The company’s technology promises to lower installation and land acquisition costs, making solar energy more affordable and efficient for consumers.
CMTA Board Member, Boeing’s, Huge Milestone
Courtesy of Boeing
First, CMTA board member company, Boeing, successfully launched its first crewed flight test of the Starliner mission, marking a decade-long milestone. Veteran NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams embarked on this mission, riding the Starliner capsule to the International Space Station (ISS) on June 5, 2024. After separating from its rocket stages, the spacecraft entered orbit and began its 24-hour journey to the ISS. This mission is essential as it works towards NASA’s certification of the Starliner for routine astronaut missions.
2024 MakingCA Conference Call for Speakers
2023 MakingCA Conference Keynote Speaker Eric Edelson, Fireclay Tile
We are excited to announce that CMTA is seeking speakers and panelists for the 2nd Annual MakingCA Conference in October. Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, which attracted nearly 150 business leaders, manufacturing employees, advocates, and partners, this year’s conference promises to be even more impactful. Interested individuals can apply by filling out the form here, with a submission deadline of August 20, 2024. The conference also features the recognition of the “Coolest Thing Made in California” competition winner. Selected speakers will receive complimentary registration and extensive promotion across CMTA’s platforms.
Learn more about our upcoming MakingCA Conference here.
CMTA Government Relations Update: California’s Manufacturers May Lose a Major Training Program
This month’s Government Relations Update video highlights crucial legislative developments for California’s manufacturing sector.
Both the Assembly and Senate have a huge deadline on Friday, May 24, 2024, to pass bills introduced in their house of origin. In the days leading up to this deadline, both houses are intensively reviewing and voting on various bills. This legislative activity is critical for manufacturers to monitor, as the outcomes will shape the regulatory and operational landscape for the sector.
A significant point of concern for California’s manufacturing industry is Senate Bill 1321, spearheaded by Senator Aisha Wahab. This bill proposes an overhaul of the Employment Training Panel (ETP), which has been instrumental in providing workforce development funding. The ETP has allocated over $26.7 million, benefiting more than 37,000 employees in the manufacturing sector. However, the proposed changes threaten to dismantle this vital program, jeopardizing sustainable jobs and career pathways. The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) identifies this bill as a Manufacturing Breaker Bill as it is a potential disruptor to the stability and growth of the industry.
Another concerning bill for California’s manufacturers is Assembly Bill 2083, led by Assemblymember Marc Berman, which mandates the California Energy Commission to assess the feasibility of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from industrial heat applications by 85% below 1990 levels by 2045. While the bill aims for significant environmental advancements, its current form is flawed due to its narrow focus on zero-emission and electrified equipment, excluding more cost-effective and technologically viable alternatives like hydrogen fuel and carbon capture. AB 2083 is an attempt to force the California industry away from natural gas in a manner that is not cost-effective or technologically possible at this time. Cost is even more concerning given that the legislature is considering eliminating R&D tax credits and minimizing the Net operating losses for businesses as part of the budget due to California’s most recent updated budget announcement. CMTA identifies AB 2083 as a Manufacturing Breaker Bill.