Labor & Employment
Fair, reasonable, and competitive labor and employment laws are vital to ensuring California manufacturers remain competitive.
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...
Manufacturing Minute: Manufacturing Giant Bosch Awarded $225M to Expand Northern California Facility
In this week’s Manufacturing Minute, we highlight exciting economic developments and California’s leadership in growing the manufacturing industry. https://youtu.be/mqoklWrZSgA Watch the latest Manufacturing Minute episode in the video player above. Bosch’s...
CMTA Update: New 2025 Laws for California Manufacturers
Sacramento, Calif. – Hundreds of new California laws are about to go into effect starting January 1, 2025. As a Golden State manufacturer and employer, are you ready for the latest rules set on businesses? As a CMTA-member exclusive benefit, continue to read for new...
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...
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 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,...
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,...
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...
Press Releases
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.
Manufacturing Minute: Manufacturing Giant Bosch Awarded $225M to Expand Northern California Facility
In this week’s Manufacturing Minute, we highlight exciting economic developments and California’s leadership in growing the manufacturing industry.
Bosch’s $225M California Facility Expansion
Photo Courtesy of Bosch
Bosch is investing $1.9 billion to expand its Roseville, California, facility, supported by up to $225 million in federal CHIPS and Science Act funding and a matching CalCompetes Tax Credit. This expansion will focus on producing silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductors, essential for improving the efficiency and performance of electric vehicles (EVs). The project is expected to create up to 1,700 jobs, including roles in construction, manufacturing, and engineering, significantly boosting local employment and U.S. semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. This initiative positions California at the forefront of clean energy innovation and advanced manufacturing growth.
California’s Leading the Way in Manufacturing
California’s strength in manufacturing was recently recognized as San Jose, also known as the Capital of Silicon Valley, was named the top manufacturing hub in the United States in a study by ABM Equipment. The study looked at factors like jobs, wages, and local economic impact. With over 50,000 people working in manufacturing—about 12% of all jobs in the city (according to the City of San Jose)—San Jose has proven to be a leader in innovation and industrial growth. This recognition shows the importance of investing in workers and infrastructure to support future success. Los Angeles, California, also ranked among the top three hubs, highlighting the value of manufacturing to local economies nationwide.
California’s Leading the Way in Manufacturing
CMTA’s 2024 Back to Session Open House
As the 2025-2026 legislative session kicks off, CMTA is hosting its annual Back to Session Open House on Tuesday, January 21. This event is a chance for CMTA members, regional partners, and lawmakers to connect and talk about key issues in California’s manufacturing industry. With light refreshments, small bites, and a welcoming atmosphere, the event will bring a fun evening of networking, sharing ideas, and building relationships.
To attend, please RSVP to Catalina Lira at clira@cmta.net or visit our event page for more details.
Stay up to date with all manufacturing news by following CMTA on social media.
CMTA Update: New 2025 Laws for California Manufacturers
Sacramento, Calif. – Hundreds of new California laws are about to go into effect starting January 1, 2025. As a Golden State manufacturer and employer, are you ready for the latest rules set on businesses?
As a CMTA-member exclusive benefit, continue to read for new laws, new trends and key legislative updates you need to be aware of as a California manufacturer.
New Laws Starting January 1, 2025
AB 2499 (Schiavo) Employment: Unlawful Discrimination and Paid Sick Days Victims of Violence
This bill, which goes into effect at the beginning of the year, requires California employers to start offering expanded protection for crime victims and their families. This new law amends several existing California statutes to provide greater protection for those impacted by crime and expands the scope of leave and accommodations provided to them.
This includes any employees who are victims or whose family members are victims of qualifying acts of violence. Employers are no longer allowed to require workers to use vacation time before they take paid family leave.
Employees are also entitled to take time off work to help a family member who has been a victim of violence. They are allowed to use sick time to help cover their absence.
Under a separate law passed in 2019 that is just now going into effect, the California Employment Development Department will be required to provide applications for family temporary disability insurance benefits in languages spoken by a “substantial number of non-English-speaking applicants.”
Employers should prepare to comply with these new requirements by updating employee handbooks with legal counsel and training HR and managers under the law.
SB 399 (Wahab) Employer Communications: Intimidation
The second piece of legislation to be aware of as a business and employee is SB 399. This new law prohibits California employers from holding captive audience meetings or employer-sponsored meetings in which an employer communicates its views about religious or political matters.
California is the tenth state to ban these types of meetings.
SB 399 exposes companies of all sizes to liability for hosting or supporting political events and prevents employers from firing, retaliating against, or taking any other adverse action because an employee declined to attend an employer-sponsored meeting. This includes conversations about union representation.
How will you be impacted? Employees will be able to file complaints with the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement or seek punitive damages. As a business, act quickly and carefully to review current policies related to workplace communications with your legal counsel, specifically those involving political, religious or union-related topics.
AB 2123 (Papan) Disability Compensation: Paid Family Leave
Another law that is affecting employee time off is AB 2123. Under this law, it is no longer legal for employers to require employees to use up accrued vacation time before they can access their benefits under California’s Paid Family Leave Program, also known as PFL benefits.
Employees can use their state-provided PFL benefits to care for a seriously ill family member, bond with a new child (newborn or foster/adoption), or participate in a qualifying event related to active duty service.
Now is the time to review leave of absence and vacation policies in employee handbooks. This new law may also impact companies in San Francisco with the city’s Paid Parental Leave Ordinance (PPLO).
AB 2515 (Papan) Menstrual Products: Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
AB 2515 expands the scope of an existing law that goes into effect on January 1, 2025. That law bans the manufacturing, selling, or delivery of any cosmetic product that contains intentionally added PFAs. AB 2515 similarly bans PFAS but is specific to menstrual products.
Under the new law, the Department of Toxic Substances Control is forced to establish regulations by 2029 that will prohibit the presence of any PFAs above a certain limit.
The bill creates a rigid framework for California’s manufacturers who do not intentionally add the chemical in question to their products.
Starting on January 1, 2027, manufacturers will need to register with the department to certify these new standards of operations at their facilities. The department will also have to list accepted testing methods for regulated PFAs on its website. By July 1, 2029, manufacturers will need to be in compliance or face financial penalties.
Bills CMTA is Tracking Through the Legislature
CMTA plans to bring forth AB 52 (Grayson) in front of the legislature once again in 2025. Investing in a manufacturing tax credit is the only way to encourage manufacturing growth. AB 52 is a tax credit bringing California in line with 38 other states that cover the taxes on qualified manufacturing purchases.
CMTA’s Government Relations Team is preparing for additional legislation on PFAs in consumer products, legislation promoting circularity, and extended producer responsibility obligations, and various proposals associated to climate change, energy, and labor and employment.
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.
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
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.
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.
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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.
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.”
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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 $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.
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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 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