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.
Manufacturing Minute: The U.S. Department of Energy Awards Funding to California Manufacturers
Find out California’s manufacturing news in the latest Manufacturing Minute episode with CMTA’s Vice President of Communications, Ananda Rochita. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies. This week's Manufacturing Minute brings significant strides in...
Manufacturing Minute: UC Berkeley Teams Up With NASA
Find out what's happening in California's manufacturing industry on this week's Manufacturing Minute with Ananda Rochita. ⚙️ BP Pulse Makes a Historic Deal with Tesla ⚙️ UC Berkeley Teams Up With NASA ⚙️ Women Making California Award Nominations open Nov. 15...
World-Class Transformer Manufacturer, Pacific Transformer, Joins CMTA
Sacramento, Calif. –The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed Pacific Transformer to the organization. Pacific Transformer, located in Anaheim, California, designs and manufactures custom transformers and magnetic products from...
EPA: Support our manufacturers instead of harming them
OPINION – As California goes, so goes the nation. This saying about how California is a leader in regulations – particularly standards that promote a cleaner environment – has never been truer than today. And while it’s usually a point of pride, there are out-of-touch...
CMTA Welcomes California Resources Corporation
Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed California Resources Corporation (CRC) to the organization today. “Providing reliable, safe, affordable, and diversified energy is critical to the long-term viability of the...
Solar Module Manufacturer is Expanding in the Sacramento region
Sacramento, CA - In a joint press conference with the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) and the Greater Sacramento Economic Council (GSEC), Sacramento-based solar module manufacturer Solar4America announced intentions to expand its presence...
Innovators in Manufacturer Skill Training and Solar Manufacturing Join CMTA as Associate Members
Sacramento, CA - The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) today announced two new associate members. The Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) brings essential and advanced training to industry professionals, and Solar4America’s...
Press Release
Manufacturing Minute: The U.S. Department of Energy Awards Funding to California Manufacturers
Find out California’s manufacturing news in the latest Manufacturing Minute episode with CMTA’s Vice President of Communications, Ananda Rochita. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.
This week’s Manufacturing Minute brings significant strides in decarbonization efforts across various energy-intensive industries in California.
Several of CMTA’s board member companies, including Gallo Glass, International Paper, and ExxonMobil, are among the 33 recipients selected to deploy the first-in-the-nation emissions-reducing technologies. These projects are part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s previous announcement of up to $6 billion in funding through the Inflation Reduction Act and 2021’s infrastructure law.
These projects not only aim to cut emissions but also potentially revolutionize the energy and transportation manufacturing sectors, reinforcing the future of U.S. manufacturers on a path toward sustainability.
Photo Courtesy: Pacific Steel Group
Plans for the state’s first steel mill built in a half-century are in the works.
The Kern County Board of Supervisors has officially approved the Pacific Steel Group’s plans for a scrap metal recycling and steel rebar mill. These plans mark a significant development in California’s manufacturing landscape, as this will be the state’s first mill constructed in over 50 years. The mill will span 174 acres and be powered predominantly by a 63-acre solar array to work towards sustainable manufacturing practices. With the creation of an estimated 400 full-time jobs post-construction, this project not only boosts local economies but also positions California as a hub for innovative steel production.
Photo Courtesy: KTVU Fox 2 News
The U.S. Labor Secretary recently took a trip to one of the nation’s oldest bus manufacturers right here in California.
The U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su’s recent visit to Gillig, a 134-year-old bus manufacturing company, highlights the connection between sustainable transportation and manufacturing. With a focus on investing in green technology and combating climate change, Su’s visit underscores the importance of infrastructure development and innovation in shaping the future of transportation.
Gillig’s diverse propulsion systems helped showcase insights into electric vehicle performance and grid infrastructure. As research and development efforts intensify, the manufacturing sector remains committed to driving technological advancements that will redefine the landscape of sustainable mobility.
Manufacturing Minute: UC Berkeley Teams Up With NASA
Find out what’s happening in California’s manufacturing industry on this week’s Manufacturing Minute with Ananda Rochita.
⚙️ BP Pulse Makes a Historic Deal with Tesla
⚙️ UC Berkeley Teams Up With NASA
⚙️ Women Making California Award Nominations open Nov. 15
World-Class Transformer Manufacturer, Pacific Transformer, Joins CMTA
Sacramento, Calif. –The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed Pacific Transformer to the organization. Pacific Transformer, located in Anaheim, California, designs and manufactures custom transformers and magnetic products from prototype through full production.
“Pivoting towards the future of manufacturing is necessary to keep-up with the ever-changing landscape of needs across the globe,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of CMTA. “Pacific Transformer has established themselves as a market leader for custom transformers – and its products are in more things than you can imagine.”
For over 40 years, Pacific Transformer has shipped more than 40 million world-class transformers and has garnered a reputation for its innovative designs, exceptional build quality, and unequaled customer service. Its products are integrated into everything from medical magnetics used in hospitals around the world, audio transformers powering Disneyland and the most discerning musician’s equipment, to critical components that are relied on by the United States Armed Forces. Their manufactured products aren’t just limited to this world; they also worked with NASA to help build elements that would power the Mars Rover.
“While Pacific Transformer has been designing and constructing custom solutions for over four decades, we are excited to be on the vanguard of a new wave of California manufacturing,” said Justin Richardson, Owner, CFO of Pacific Transformer. “With our deep-rooted expertise in charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, battery conditioning, and other electromechanical applications for military and aerospace, we are in a unique position to lead the charge in the Green Industrial Revolution.”
With both California headquarters and international facilities, Pacific Transformer guarantees clients a successful, on-time order. All of its facilities are also ISO9001 Certified.
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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 Pacific Transformer
Since 1981, Pacific Transformer has remained a market leader in the field of custom transformers, magnetic engineering, and power transformer design. For 42 years, the USA-based manufacturer has shipped more than 40 million world-class transformers and has garnered a reputation for its innovative designs, exceptional build quality, and unequaled customer service. www.pactran.com
EPA: Support our manufacturers instead of harming them
OPINION – As California goes, so goes the nation.
This saying about how California is a leader in regulations – particularly standards that promote a cleaner environment – has never been truer than today. And while it’s usually a point of pride, there are out-of-touch national regulations being planned by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that would significantly imperil our manufacturing base if the agency successfully implements them. If that happens, our manufacturing sector’s decline would harm not just us, but the entire country.
The EPA has proposed a change to the regulations for a particulate matter called PM2.5 that is a common byproduct of manufacturing operations. PM2.5 has been regulated for decades and the manufacturing industry has been able to innovate to both comply with regulations. However, this new regulatory proposal surrounding PM2.5 comes at a time when the impact of implementation would cause severe and far-reaching consequences.
California’s manufacturing base is comparable to some countries. There are 35,000 firms supporting 1.2 million jobs that generates more than $300 billion annually. We have the number one shipping port in the nation for the massive number of exports we send overseas. Over the last three decades, California has become a leader in high-tech sectors such as aerospace, electronics, electric vehicle manufacturing, and even advances in the food and beverage industries. In fact, 16% of aerospace jobs and 28% of IT and analytical product manufacturing jobs in the country are in California. And as a result, California’s manufacturing companies are among the best and the most environmentally conscious in the world.
A new regulatory proposal surrounding PM2.5 comes at a time when the impact of implementation would cause severe and far-reaching consequences.
Because of California’s large manufacturing footprint, our state would be impacted more than any other state. A recent study from the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) details that, if PM2.5 regulations were to tighten, it would create a total economic exposure of more than $30 billion and threaten an estimated 119,000 jobs. That is something the EPA ought to consider in its rule-making process so decisions are not made in a silo.
It’s no secret to anyone reading this that California’s economy got walloped by the pandemic and subsequent supply chain crisis, and these potential compounding issues from this onerous regulation certainly wouldn’t help in our continued recovery. Every sector in the state from agricultural to hospitality to manufacturing struggled mightily, but we proved our resilience and are continuing to recover. But that progress to full recovery will come to an abrupt stop if the EPA’s shortsighted and unnecessary PM2.5 regulation is allowed to move forward.
Even the EPA itself says that the levels of PM2.5 have decreased by 44% since 2000, which means that the current standards are working. In fact, six common airborne particles that are regulated under NAAQS have decreased by 78% between 1970 and 2020. California’s manufacturers are proud to be leaders in this effort, and they will continue to play an integral role in a cleaner environment.
The California Manufacturers & Technology Association believes in a balanced approach to regulations, including those that support cleaner air. But this new rule could cause significant challenges for manufacturers seeking permits for expansions. Additionally, the proposal is likely to negatively impact the construction of new infrastructure projects as funded in the bipartisan infrastructure bill. Of course, regulations are necessary and improving our air quality is of the utmost importance, but overly burdensome regulations, like the PM2.5 proposal under consideration, harm our members, their employees, their customers, and, by extension, our communities.
The current PM2.5 regulations are working – we know this because the EPA’s own data tells us that. There is no need to push up the regulatory schedule and cause undue harm to companies that are just now finding their footing from the pandemic and fervently trying to ward off another economic slide. We ask that our elected leaders tell the EPA to stop the regulations under consideration and let our manufacturers continue driving a strong economy.
-This OpEd was written by Lance Hastings, CMTA’s CEO & President, and was first published in Capitol Weekly on July 22, 2023.
CMTA Welcomes California Resources Corporation
Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed California Resources Corporation (CRC) to the organization today.
“Providing reliable, safe, affordable, and diversified energy is critical to the long-term viability of the manufacturing sector and helping California address climate change,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of CMTA. “CRC is a leader in environmental sustainability with innovative solutions for business.”
CRC is an independent energy and carbon management company with operational control of 97 fields across the state, including in the Los Angeles, San Joaquin, and Sacramento basins. The fields produce lower carbon intensity oil supplies than barrels imported from countries that do not share the state’s leading safety, labor, human rights, and environmental standards.
“CRC is proud to join CMTA and support its efforts to promote economic growth and create new jobs in California,” said Francisco Leon, President & CEO of CRC. “CRC has some of the lowest carbon intensity oil and gas production in the US, and through our subsidiary, Carbon TerraVault, we are developing carbon capture and storage projects to support California as it aims to achieve ambitious decarbonization goals. We look forward to working with CMTA to create new opportunities for businesses as part of our commitment to the energy transition.”
Last year, CRC updated its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals, including a full-scope goal to reach Net Zero by 2045 for Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. This puts CRC among a select few industry peers to include Scope 3 emissions in their Net Zero goal. CRC’s ESG goals include lowering greenhouse gas emissions, decreasing methane emissions, reducing freshwater consumption, and increasing accountability.
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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 CRC
California Resources Corporation (CRC) is an independent energy and carbon management company committed to energy transition. CRC has some of the lowest carbon intensity production in the US and we are focused on maximizing the value of our land, mineral and technical resources for decarbonization by developing carbon capture and storage (CCS) and other emissions reducing projects. For more information, visit CRC’s website.
Solar Module Manufacturer is Expanding in the Sacramento region
Sacramento, CA – In a joint press conference with the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) and the Greater Sacramento Economic Council (GSEC), Sacramento-based solar module manufacturer Solar4America announced intentions to expand its presence in the Sacramento region, with plans to add 56,000 additional square feet of space and 400 more jobs for the company in Sacramento by the end of 2024.
“We are working hard to be the shining example that manufacturing can be successful in California,” said HK Cheong, President and CEO of Solar4America. “Sacramento had been our home for more than a decade, and we are looking forward to a long, successful collaboration with the community and our partners throughout the region.”
Solar4America, a member of the California Manufactures & Technology Association (CMTA), manufactures a variety of solar panels for residential, commercial and utility projects using state-of-the-art equipment and technology. The company also has a U.S.-based customer support team and has operated its U.S. headquarters in Sacramento since 2006.
“A manufacturing renaissance is underway in California right now,” said Lance Hastings, President & CEO of the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA). “Bringing more manufacturing jobs to the table is imperative for our industry and to bolster the economy. The 400 jobs Solar4America is creating will provide more opportunities for other sectors in the Greater Sacramento region. Our future is bright.”
California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) supported the expansion of Solar4America.
“We are pleased to welcome additional manufacturing capacity and jobs to one of the fastest growing metro areas in the U.S.,” said Kaina Pereria, Senior Advisor, Business Development at GO-Biz. “As manufacturing continues to thrive in California, ensuring a high-value domestic supply chain of quality solar materials will be paramount in accelerating sustainability in power generation and this expansion aims to do just that.”
Local officials were also present for the event including Assemblymember Joshua Hoover of California’s District 7 who was one of the speakers for the announcement.
“I’m thrilled to work with Solar4America and honored that they have chosen to grow their presence here in our district,” said Assemblymember Joshua Hoover of California’s District 7. “I value Solar4America’s contributions to the local business community and support for our region.”
As the company looks to increase its footprint, Solar4America is working with Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) to add 12 MW of power to its operations. The additional power will support the company’s expanded space and capacity to ramp up production of its solar panels.
“This is an exciting expansion for Sacramento, and SMUD is honored to support Solar4America with its growing energy needs,” said SMUD Director Heidi Sanborn. “We’re proud to serve our commercial customers, especially those who share our commitment to renewable energy and innovation, as we work to create a carbon free economy.”
Greater Sacramento Economic Council also supported the company’s expansion and helped Solar4America connect with diverse local talent and universities.
“When a company like Solar4America decides to deepen its roots here in Sacramento, it reaffirms the company’s commitment to our local economy and supports cleantech manufacturing jobs in our region,” said GSEC President & CEO Barry Broome. “We look forward to seeing the ongoing success of this innovative energy partner.”
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About Solar 4 America
Solar4America is a premium solar panel US manufacturer, located in Sacramento, CA. We manufacture a variety of American-made solar panels for residential, commercial, and utility projects. We have been investing extensively in state-of-the-art equipment, technologies and teams in the US which enable us to provide great local customer services and warranties to our customers.
About CMTA:
The California Manufacturers & Technology Association has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. 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 the CMTA website.
About the Greater Sacramento Economic Council
The Greater Sacramento Economic Council is the catalyst for innovative growth strategies in the Capital Region of California. The organization spearheads community-led direction to retain, attract, grow and scale tradable sectors, develop advanced industries and create jobs and investment throughout a six-county region. Greater Sacramento represents a collaboration between local and state governments, market leaders, influencers and stakeholders, with the sole mission of driving inclusive economic growth. The Greater Sacramento region was founded on discovery, built on leadership and fueled by innovation.
Innovators in Manufacturer Skill Training and Solar Manufacturing Join CMTA as Associate Members
Sacramento, CA – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) today announced two new associate members. The Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) brings essential and advanced training to industry professionals, and Solar4America’s expansion in the solar industry is vital to the state and community’s economic growth.
“I am delighted to announce these two companies as associate members of CMTA – both for the different tools they bring to our robust industry,” said Lance Hastings, President & CEO of CMTA. “MSSC is setting the standard for industry training, which creates a level of excellence for California manufacturers. Meanwhile, we are excited for Solar4America’s expansion in Sacramento that has put them at the top of U.S. Solar manufacturing while also bringing in hundreds of more jobs for the community.”
MSSC was officially endorsed in 1998 by the federal National Skill Standards Board as the group responsible for industry-defined national skill standards and certification for entry-level production technicians in all manufacturing sectors. They have since developed seven certification and training programs and have certified over 122,000 candidates. With a national infrastructure of over 2,000 authorized assessments centers and a network of over 3,300 qualified instructors, MSSC offers the industry a new set of tools to ensure that both entering and incumbent technicians have an understanding and knowledge of Industry 4.0 technologies, are flexible, easily trainable and highly motivated technicians able to keep pace with technological change – the “Industrial Athlete of the Future.”
“By becoming a member of CMTA, MSSC intends to be a proactive collaborator with the C.A. workforce development community stakeholders, including its manufacturing members,” said Steve Harrington, MSSC Senior Advisor. “The talent shortage is being felt by small and large companies across the Golden State, and to overcome this widening hurdle, stakeholders of all sides must convene and implement durable solutions. With their industry-defined standards, MSSC will spur the momentum needed to build talent pipelines across all Californian manufacturing industries.”
“We are very excited to be part of CMTA to share our vision that manufacturing can be done in California and to be fully immersed in the community by providing green energy careers,” said Andrew Hughan, Director, Government Relations & Marketing for Solar4America.
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The California Manufacturers & Technology Association has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. 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 the CMTA website.
About MSSC:
Certifying over 100,000 candidates, the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) ®, an industry-led 501(c)3 non-profit, is America’s leader in training and certifying foundational technical competencies for front-line technicians for in-demand, higher wage, higher skill jobs in advanced manufacturing and supply chain logistics.
Technicians with MSSC Certifications are qualified for 11.3 million jobs in front-line production, material handling, and distribution. 84% of executives surveyed agree there is a talent shortage in U.S. manufacturing. MSSC is helping industry close that gap as they prepare to manufacture the future! For more information, visit MSSC’s website.
About Solar4America:
Solar4America is a premium solar panel US manufacturer, located in Sacramento, CA. We manufacture a variety of solar panels for residential, commercial, and utility projects. We have been investing extensively in state-of-the-art equipment, technologies and teams in the U.S., which enables us to provide great local customer services and warranties to our customers. For more information, visit Solar4America’s website.