Labor & Employment

Fair, reasonable, and competitive labor and employment laws are vital to ensuring California manufacturers remain competitive. 

 

Supply Chain Operating System Startup for Manufacturers Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new member, Soff, to the organization today. Based in San Francisco, Soff is a supply chain operating system for manufacturing companies. The startup company works to unify...

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

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

Press Releases

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

U.S. Department of Defense Investing in Biomanufacturing 

 

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

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

 

 

Expansion of a California Defense Manufacturing and Design Engineering Center

 

Photo Courtesy of Pacific Defense

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

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

 

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

California Selected as Headquarters for the National Semiconductor Technology Center

 

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

 

 Gallo Glass Awarded $5 Million for Hybrid Glass Furnace

 

Photo courtesy of Gallo Glass

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

 

 Sparkz, A Lithium Battery Manufacturer, Opens in Sacramento

 

Photo courtesy of KCRA 3

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

###

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.

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

###

About CMTA

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $300 billion per year, roughly 10 percent of the total economic output of the state. Manufacturers employ 1.3 million Californians paying wages more than $25,000 higher than other non-farm employers in the state. For more information, visit CMTA’s website.

Supply Chain Operating System Startup for Manufacturers Joins CMTA

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed new member, Soff, to the organization today.

Based in San Francisco, Soff is a supply chain operating system for manufacturing companies. The startup company works to unify supply chain data and automate core workflows, with the goal of helping companies bring products to market faster.

“Manufacturing is at a pivotal turning point as the industry adjusts to and explores the cutting-edge technology that is artificial intelligence (AI). Implementing AI into our manufacturing processes will expand the horizons for the industry,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of CMTA. “We are thrilled to have Soff join CMTA as new members and look forward to them joining us at our MakingCA Conference in October as panelists.”

Soff was started in 2024 by two German engineers, Berni Hausleitner and Raban von Spiegel. Hausleitner saw first-hand the supply chain inefficiencies from a manufacturers viewpoint while working as a full-stack engineer at Tesla on the autopilot team.

“Manufacturers are in crisis mode, battling supply chain disruptions,” said Hausleitner, Co-Founder of Soff. “All eyes are on supply chain managers, who must rise to the occasion. However, they are left with archaic tools, forcing them into painful and redundant workflows. This is why we’re building Soff.”

Von Spiegel and Hausleitner paired together to build Soff after Von Spiegel worked as a purchasing manager at one of Soff’s customers.

“We’re incredibly excited to join the CMTA. This opportunity allows us to further accelerate our mission to transform supply chain management in manufacturing, and we’re excited to collaborate with other forward-thinking companies in the CMTA network,” said Raban von Spiegel, Co-Founder of Soff.

Today, supply chain data lives across email inboxes, spreadsheets, ERPs and other point-solutions. This fragmentation, Soff says, leads to out-of-sync data and wild workarounds.

Soff unifies supply chain data into one platform, automating time-consuming tasks like data entry, RFQs, quote comparisons, and issuing POs. Soff saves customers dozens of hours each week while eliminating costly errors and delays. Soff enables manufacturers to deliver higher-quality products faster. Companies like SpaceX (Warpdrive), Rivian (Basecamp), and Apple (Incline) spend millions on building their in-house supply chain tools—Soff brings that level of efficiency to any manufacturer.

Von Spiegel will speak at CMTA’s MakingCA Conference on a panel diving into how to harness AI to revolutionize manufacturing in California. Hear him speak, and learn more about the conference here.

###

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 Soff

Soff provides supply chain software for manufacturing companies. Founded in 2024, Soff works with Californian manufacturers like Zipline to automate core supply chain workflows. Supply chain managers use Soff to streamline quote requests and automate ERP data entry. The company was started by engineers from Stanford and Tesla. For more information, visit Soff’s website

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

###

About CMTA

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $300 billion per year, roughly 10 percent of the total economic output of the state. Manufacturers employ 1.3 million Californians paying wages more than $25,000 higher than other non-farm employers in the state. For more information, visit CMTA’s website.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EHS Consulting Firm ALL4 & Insurance Brokerage EPIC Join CMTA as Associate Members

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) welcomed several associate members to the organization today, including consulting agency ALL4 and Edgewood Partners Insurance Center (EPIC).

“Our associate members play an important role in the health of our manufacturers and employees in California,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of CMTA. “ALL4 and EPIC are both leaders in their individual sectors, and we look forward to working with them at CMTA.”

With offices in 27 U.S. states as well as in Canada, Spain, Columbia, Mexico and Brazil, ALL4 provides consulting services that span challenges encountered within industrial EHS programs. Its strategic services include air quality, chemical reporting and management, digital solutions, environmental, social, and governance, investigation and remediation, occupational health and safety, waste management, and water quality.

“ALL4 is excited to join CMTA to help shape environmental responsibility by partnering with industries to protect human health and the environment while concurrently supporting ongoing economic development and thriving communities,” said Chad Morris, CEO of ALL4. “We look forward to collaborating with CMTA members to co-create a compliant and sustainable future.”

ALL4 provides strategic consulting services to numerous heavily regulated industries across the country, including aerospace, pulp and paper, food and beverage, consumer products, cement, chemical/pharmaceutical, waste management, power, oil and gas, automotive, and data centers. ALL4 has been consistently recognized as a “Best Place to Work” both regionally and nationally – growing in personnel, culture, and environmental disciplines.”

Founded in San Francisco in 2007, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants is a retail risk management and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. With clients ranging from main street to Fortune 500 companies, EPIC provides brokerage and consulting products and services through a suite of capabilities that expand with the changing landscape within all industries and sectors.

“As an insurance professional with a specialization in the manufacturing space, I am thrilled to be joining the premier manufacturing association in the State of California, CMTA,” said Reza Sanati, Senior Vice President of EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants. “The chance to engage with industry leaders, understand their unique risks inherent in their business models, and contribute to the discussion of identifying current and emerging risks in the manufacturing processes is incredibly motivating. I look forward to the opportunity to build strong relationships, establish credibility, and ultimately, become a trusted partner in safeguarding the success of these businesses.”

EPIC’s recent revenue growth to over $1 billion has positioned the company as a fast-growing firm that continues to attract top-tier talent and firms nationally. The insurance broker ranked 17th in the U.S. for largest brokers with 100k+ clients.

###

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 ALL4:

ALL4 has offices and remote staff members in 27 U.S. states as well as in Calgary and Toronto, Canada, Madrid, Spain, Columbia, Mexico, and Brazil. The company has office locations in the metro areas of Philadelphia, PA (headquarters); Rancho Cucamonga, CA; Atlanta, GA; Louisville/Lexington, KY; Raleigh, NC; Houston, TX; Bellingham, WA, and Washington, DC. ALL4 provides strategic consulting services to numerous heavily regulated industries across the country, including pulp and paper, food and beverage, consumer products, cement, chemical/pharmaceutical, waste management, power, oil and gas, automotive, and data centers. ALL4 has been consistently recognized as a “Best Place to Work” both regionally and nationally – growing in personnel, culture, and environmental disciplines. For more information, visit https://www.all4inc.com/ and connect with ALL4 on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram.

About EPIC:

Edgewood Partners Insurance Center (EPIC) is unique and innovative retail risk management, employee benefits and private client insurance brokerage and consulting firm, founded in San Francisco, California in 2007 with offices and leadership across the country. EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants has a depth of industry expertise across key lines of insurance, including risk management, property and casualty, employee benefits, unique specialty program insurance and private client services. We focus on clients ranging from main street to Fortune 500 companies. Providing brokerage and consulting products and services through a suite of capabilities that continues to expand with the changing landscape within all industries and sectors. For more information, visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

 

CMTA Government Relations Update: A Recently Expired California Incentive Program May be Reestablished

This month’s Government Relations Update video highlights crucial legislative developments for California’s manufacturing sector. 
The California Legislative Summer Recess is approaching on July 3, 2024. This date marks the deadline for policy committees to meet and report bills, after which the State Legislature will take a break and reconvene on August 5, 2024.  

AB 2922 (Garcia), a CMTA Maker Bill, is aimed at revitalizing the recently expired Capital Investment Incentive Program. If successful, this bill will extend the program until January 1, 2035, providing financial incentives to attract qualified manufacturers to California. AB 2922 promotes economic growth, job creation, and regional development by allowing counties and cities to offer tax benefits to manufacturers with significant capital investments. This bill has been referred to the Senate Local Government Committee and represents a substantial opportunity for the state’s manufacturing sector to continue to thrive. 

Learn more about CMTA’s bills here. 

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