Labor & Employment
Fair, reasonable, and competitive labor and employment laws are vital to ensuring California manufacturers remain competitive.
Manufacturing in the News: August 2025
Read CMTA's round-up of manufacturing-related news from August 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 Jet...
Manufacturing in the News: July 2025
Read CMTA's round-up of manufacturing-related news from July 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 Union...
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 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...
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...
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 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,...
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. https://youtu.be/jMnlk4-ZJrk Watch the latest Manufacturing Minute episode in...
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...
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. https://youtu.be/8VbyGGXGdgk Watch the latest Manufacturing Minute episode in...
Press Releases

Manufacturing in the News: August 2025
Read CMTA’s round-up of manufacturing-related news from August 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
Jet Component Manufacturer Bombardier Opens New Moorpark Facility
Bombardier, a Canada-based company, announced the opening of a new 46,000-square-foot facility in Moorpark, CA. The site, which now employs 30 people, will manufacturer components for the company’s Global 7500 and Global 8000 business jets, the latter of which is still in development. It replaces a smaller facility in Los Angeles as the company has grown.
Read more from The Business Journals
Rocket Lab Completes Acquisition of Geost
Rocket Lab Corporation—a CMTA member and part of CMTA’s ADAC group—announced its completion of the acquisition of Geost, a leading developer of electro-optical and infrared sensor systems for national security space missions. As part of the deal, the company will gain Geost’s manufacturing facilities, laboratories, intellectual property, and product inventory. Rocket Lab is based in Long Beach, CA.
Apple Commits $100 Billion to U.S. Manufacturing
Tech giant Apple pledged $100 billion toward domestic manufacturing. The company aims to bring more of its supply chain to the U.S. as part of a new manufacturing program. This investment includes expansion plans in California, among many other states. The Cupertino-based company designs its products in California, but currently relies on a global supply chain.
Joby Aviation Partners to Develop Military Aircraft
Santa Cruz-based company Joby Aviation has partnered with defense firm L3Harris Technologies to develop a vertical take-off and landing aircraft for defense applications. The new military-grade version of Joby’s VTOL aircraft will be tested in fall 2025. Operational demonstrations are expected to begin in 2026. Joby Aviation is headquartered in Santa Cruz with its main manufacturing site in Marina.
U.S. Takes 10% Stake in Chipmaker Intel
The U.S. government made an $8.9 billion investment in Intel common stock, about a 10% stake in the company. This deal gives the U.S. government a “passive ownership” in the Santa Clara-based company, according to Intel’s press release. The agreement comes as part of an effort to boost semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S. and cement the nation as a leader in the global chipmaking industry.
Anheuser-Busch Tops U.S. Craft Beer Market
CMTA board member company Anheuser-Busch became the #1 market share gainer among the top five U.S. craft beer manufacturers. According to a release from the company, the growth is driven by their focus and prioritization of key craft styles, IPA and Wheat, which meet consumer preferences. IPAs are now the leading style in craft beer, making up 5% of total U.S. beer sales.
Manufacturing Industry Policy
Senate Blocks Assembly Move on Cap-and-Trade Reauthorization
Negotiations to extend California’s Cap-and-Trade program through 2045 are ongoing. With the legislative session ending on September 12, lawmakers have less than two weeks to reach a deal. Last week, the California Senate blocked a move from Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin to advance the extension of the program, and refused to allow the proposed amendments.

Manufacturing in the News: July 2025
Read CMTA’s round-up of manufacturing-related news from July 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
Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern Plan America’s First Transcontinental Freight Railroad
Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern announced a $72 billion merger to create America’s first transcontinental railroad. This would connect 50,000 route miles across 43 states, and link approximately 100 ports. If approved, this would be one of the largest rail mergers in the nation’s history. U.S. freight railroads play a critical role in America’s economy, transporting autos, retail goods, food products, raw materials, and parts needed to run American manufacturing facilities.
Joby Aviation to Expand Marina Production Site
The company specializes in developing electric air taxis for commercial passengers and aims to double its aircraft production capacity at the existing Marina, CA facility. With the expansion, the site now spams 435,500 square feet and is expected to produce up to 24 aircraft per year once fully operational. Joby Aviation also expanded its flight test program.
Silicon Valley AI Leader Nvidia Reaches $4 Trillion Valuation
The chipmaking company became the first publicly traded company to briefly surpass a $4 trillion market valuation. This achievement underscores the boom of artificial intelligence and industry-leading processors. Based in Santa Clara, CA, the company is part of the Silicon Valley’s robust manufacturing and technology sector.
Read more from Associated Press
General Motors and Redwood Materials Pursue Use of U.S.-Manufactured Batteries
CMTA board member company General Motors (GM) signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Redwood Materials with the goal of advancing distribution of energy storage systems using batteries made in the U.S. With the U.S. electricity demand continuing to grow, this is another step toward furthering GM’s advanced battery technology beyond EVs.
California Forever Proposes Largest Advanced Manufacturing Park in the U.S.
California Forever, a development group backed by Silicon Valley investors, announced plans to build the Solano Foundry, a project they say will be the largest advanced manufacturing park in the country. The foundry would be part of the group’s proposed new city in rural Solano County. California Forever currently owns more than 100 square miles of land in the area.
Manufacturing Industry Policy
Governor Newsom Announces “California Breakthrough Project” to Engage Tech Companies
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a new initiative, titled the “California Breakthrough Project” to convene leaders from the state’s top tech companies. The group will collaborate with state agencies to find opportunities to improve government operations. According to Forbes, California is home to 32 out of the top 50 AI companies globally.

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.
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.
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.
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.
Major CEQA Reform Included in State Budget
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.

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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
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.

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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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.
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.