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

 

Sustainable House Manufacturer, ReMo Homes, Joins CMTA

Jun 12, 2024

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) officially welcomed ReMo Homes, a pioneering modular manufacturing company, to the organization today. ReMo Homes is working towards providing zero-carbon, cost-effective modular and...

Press Releases

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

Sep 3, 2024 | , , , ,

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

Aug 27, 2024 | , , ,

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.

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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 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

Jun 21, 2024 | , , , , ,

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.
Sustainable House Manufacturer, ReMo Homes, Joins CMTA

Sustainable House Manufacturer, ReMo Homes, Joins CMTA

Jun 12, 2024 | , , , ,

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) officially welcomed ReMo Homes, a pioneering modular manufacturing company, to the organization today.

ReMo Homes is working towards providing zero-carbon, cost-effective modular and manufactured homes in under-resourced and historically underrepresented communities using advanced manufacturing technologies.

“In California’s efforts to decrease the state’s carbon footprint, sustainable housing manufacturing will play an important role within the state,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of CMTA. “CMTA is thrilled to welcome ReMo Homes as a member and we’re looking forward to partnering with their team as California continues to transition towards a more sustainable future.”

ReMo’s sustainable housing manufacturing is foreseen to create eco-friendly housing that will also facilitate the creation of cost-effective housing and industry jobs within the state.

“We are thrilled to join CMTA and be a part of the leading voice of California’s manufacturing industry,” said Vamsi Kumar Kotla, Founder of ReMo Homes. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to industrialize construction and promote sustainable, affordable housing solutions, while generating high road jobs through advanced manufacturing. We look forward to learning from and collaborating with industry leaders to drive positive change and growth in the industry.”

CMTA’s new member is currently pursuing the setting up of a manufacturing cluster for building net-zero homes in California’s Inland Empire region.

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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 ReMo Homes

ReMo Homes is a pioneering modular manufacturing company committed to addressing the housing and climate crises through innovative and advanced manufacturing techniques. ReMo’s multidisciplinary team consists of veterans from SpaceX, NASA as well as from traditional construction companies. ReMo specializes in producing zero-carbon, economical homes utilizing cutting-edge fabrication methods, automation-friendly materials, and Lean Manufacturing principles gleaned from the automotive industry. ReMo is dedicated to revolutionizing the housing industry by making sustainable living accessible to everyone. For more information, visit ReMo Homes website.

Manufacturing Minute: SF State Receives A $14 Million Grant from The Genentech Foundation

May 28, 2024 | , , , ,

This week’s Manufacturing Minute highlights three significant advancements that are shaping the industry’s future. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.

 

$14 Million STEM Grant to San Francisco State 

Courtesy of San Francisco State University

First, San Francisco State University has received a generous $14 million grant from CMTA board member Genentech. The Genentech Foundation is supporting underrepresented students in STEM and to enhance its life sciences programs. This new five-year funding builds on a longstanding partnership that has already provided over $33 million, benefiting more than 700 students since 2008. With this latest support, an additional 350 students will receive scholarships, research opportunities, and career prep. Not only does this grant from Genentech support SF State’s students, but it will support California’s life sciences sector and boost the state’s manufacturing capabilities in the long run. 

Amazon’s Electric Trucks in California

Courtesy of Amazon

In a significant move towards sustainability, Amazon is deploying 50 Volvo VNR Electric trucks in California, marking its largest rollout of heavy-duty electric vehicles. This fleet, including a dozen trucks for drayage operations at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, aims to reduce Amazon’s carbon footprint as the state transitions to zero-emission vehicles. With a range of 275 miles and a gross combination weight of 82,000 pounds, these electric trucks are set to revolutionize heavy-duty trucking. Udit Madan, VP of Worldwide Amazon Operations, expressed excitement about this initiative, emphasizing the importance of decarbonizing the challenging sector of heavy-duty transportation. 

Webinar for Manufacturers Navigating AI

Lastly, CMTA is hosting an exclusive FREE webinar presented by Hitachi Digital Services, focusing on the transformative power of artificial intelligence in manufacturing. Led by Dr. Chetan Gupta, Hitachi R&D’s head of AI research, this webinar will delve into how AI is revolutionizing the industry through applications in predictive maintenance, quality control, energy management, and more. This is a rare opportunity to gain insights into leveraging AI to enhance operations, identify high-impact use cases, and develop a successful AI strategy. Seize this chance to lead your team into a new era of manufacturing excellence.

Click HERE to Register today for FREE

CMTA Government Relations Update: California’s Manufacturers May Lose a Major Training Program

May 21, 2024 | , , , , , ,

This month’s Government Relations Update video highlights crucial legislative developments for California’s manufacturing sector. 
Both the Assembly and Senate have a huge deadline on Friday, May 24, 2024, to pass bills introduced in their house of origin. In the days leading up to this deadline, both houses are intensively reviewing and voting on various bills. This legislative activity is critical for manufacturers to monitor, as the outcomes will shape the regulatory and operational landscape for the sector. 

A significant point of concern for California’s manufacturing industry is Senate Bill 1321, spearheaded by Senator Aisha Wahab. This bill proposes an overhaul of the Employment Training Panel (ETP), which has been instrumental in providing workforce development funding. The ETP has allocated over $26.7 million, benefiting more than 37,000 employees in the manufacturing sector. However, the proposed changes threaten to dismantle this vital program, jeopardizing sustainable jobs and career pathways. The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) identifies this bill as a Manufacturing Breaker Bill as it is a potential disruptor to the stability and growth of the industry. 

Another concerning bill for California’s manufacturers is Assembly Bill 2083, led by Assemblymember Marc Berman, which mandates the California Energy Commission to assess the feasibility of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from industrial heat applications by 85% below 1990 levels by 2045. While the bill aims for significant environmental advancements, its current form is flawed due to its narrow focus on zero-emission and electrified equipment, excluding more cost-effective and technologically viable alternatives like hydrogen fuel and carbon capture. AB 2083 is an attempt to force the California industry away from natural gas in a manner that is not cost-effective or technologically possible at this time. Cost is even more concerning given that the legislature is considering eliminating R&D tax credits and minimizing the Net operating losses for businesses as part of the budget due to California’s most recent updated budget announcement. CMTA identifies AB 2083 as a Manufacturing Breaker Bill. 

 

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

Manufacturing Minute: Siemens Mobility Selected to Manufacture Trains for High-Speed Rail Project

May 14, 2024 | , , , ,

This week’s Manufacturing Minute brings forth exciting developments shaping the future of the nation’s high-speed rail ambitions and industry growth in the Golden State.

Siemens High-Speed Rail Project  

Courtesy of Brightline West

Siemens Mobility, a train manufacturer with a hub in Sacramento, CA, has been selected as the “preferred bidder” for Brightline West’s high-speed rail project. This is a development that is set to revolutionize travel between Las Vegas and Southern California. 

With the introduction of the innovative American Pioneer 220 (AP 220) train sets, Siemens Mobility is promising cutting-edge technology and a passenger experience tailored for the U.S. market. The high-speed rail project will take passengers from Rancho Cucamonga to the Las Vegas Strip in two hours.  

This infrastructure milestone signifies California’s leap into high-speed rail technology and amplifies the nation’s manufacturing capabilities.  

California’s Bold Investment in Innovation  

Courtesy of Office of Governor Gavin Newsom

California’s Governor announced the state would invest $120 million in tax credits to eight pioneering companies. Gov. Gavin Newsom made the announcement this past April, explaining how this funding will help create good-paying jobs and support the economy.  

“California’s economy is the fifth largest in the world and we’re supporting workers and businesses as they reach success,” Newsom said. “This funding will help businesses create good-paying jobs — from steel manufacturing in Kern County to sustainable lithium production in Imperial Valley — and support the state’s economic dominance for years to come.” 

This huge investment in California is expected to generate more than 2,100 full-time jobs with an average annual salary of over $100,000 and bring in an estimated $15.5 billion in private investment over the next five years. 

The funding from the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) comes from the California Competes program that was created in 2013 to help businesses grow and stay in California.

‘This could really impact the manufacturing sector right here in California’: Study Says Manufacturing in U.S. Could Need Up to 3.8 Million Workers

May 3, 2024 | , , ,

Sacramento, Calif. – As many as 3.8 million manufacturing jobs will need to be filled in the next decade as the industry continues to advance post-pandemic, according to a new study by Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute.

California Manufacturers and Technology Association’s (CMTA) CEO & President Lance Hastings joined KCRA 3 News on Thursday, May 2, 2024, to give insight into what this means for California’s manufacturing workforce and the solutions to fill the workforce gaps.

“This could really impact the manufacturing sector right here in California,” Hastings told KCRA 3 Anchor Brandi Cummings.

Watch the interview with KCRA 3 News Brandi Cummings in the video player above.

The new study found the “manufacturing industry has emerged from the pandemic on a solid growth trajectory, and continued growth is expected over the next 10 years as companies work to meet evolving customer demands, de-risk their supply chains, and leverage government incentives and policies.”

Hastings says the challenges to filling these jobs come from a convergence of variables. What Hastings calls the ‘Silver Tsunami’ with a wave of retirements is one reason for the need to backfill jobs while simultaneously seeing positions opening due to an increased growth in the sector. The manufacturing industry is thriving post-pandemic as significant investment drives it forward into more advanced manufacturing. These investments are being seen at the federal level with the Biden Administration’s CHIPS Act and at local state and municipal levels with tax credits and other investments across the country.

“The manufacturing jobs are highly skilled and technical, a lot of computers are involved. So, the skill gap that we have right now versus the previous manufacturing of heavy lifting, more active kind of jobs is different – it’s evolving, and we have to adapt,” Hastings said about moving forward with new types of manufacturing positions opening in the field.

CMTA aims to help aid in the industry’s growth by shaping and changing the narrative: “It’s not dirty, dark and dangerous like it used to be,” Hastings said. “Trying to attract people into this sector even with our great paying jobs, we’re finding to be difficult… In particular in California, we’re so innovative, and technologically focused. California’s jobs profile is a bit different than other states.”

The study finds that the demand for digital skills is accelerating as technological innovation continues.

“Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute’s analysis show that, in the last five years, there has been a 75% increase in demand for simulation and simulation software skills, sought mostly for technology-enabled production or testing roles,” the study states. These roles include semiconductor processing technicians, machinists, first-line supervisors, welders, and electronics and electromechanical assemblers.

The solution? Start educating the next generation early, Hastings says.

“It starts in elementary school, it starts in high school when you start to tell everyone about what career opportunities are [out there], that may or may not require a college degree. That’s where we can really start to make a change,” he said.

CMTA is working directly with California’s top leaders, including Gov. Gavin Newsom, “on ways to infuse activity and capital into the manufacturing sector.”

Watch the interview with FOX40’s Sonseeahray Tonsall in the video player above.

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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.

Manufacturing Minute: Bloom Energy Awarded $75 Million for Fremont Facility Expansion

Apr 16, 2024 | , , , , , ,

This week’s Manufacturing Minute brings insightful updates shaping the future of the U.S. manufacturing landscape.  

A joint study by Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute gives the industry insight into the growth of manufacturers. The study estimates a demand for approximately 3.8 million skilled workers over the next decade. The study showcases the urgent need to cultivate a national talent pipeline, emphasizing roles such as statisticians, engineers, software developers, and industrial maintenance technicians. As manufacturing continues to thrive post-pandemic, investing in workforce development remains a priority for manufacturers to sustain the momentum.  

Bloom Energy secures $75 million in federal tax credits for its Fremont manufacturing plant. The Bay Area manufacturer was recognized for its dedication to expanding domestic manufacturing and fuel cell production capacity. The funding awarded to Bloom Energy is a part of the White House’s $4 billion initiative, which aims to accelerate clean energy manufacturing and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With a focus on operational efficiency and stack capacity expansion, Bloom’s CEO, KR Sridhar, expresses optimism about the company’s growth. 

California Aerospace Day 2022

Mark your calendars for the celebration of California’s aerospace industry at California Aerospace Day, hosted by The Boeing Company and Lockheed Martin on June 5, 2024. The event promises a day filled with insightful panels on STEM/workforce development, Climate Change Technologies, and topics regarding innovation in the aerospace industry. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with industry leaders and explore the exciting advancements shaping the future of aerospace in California.  

Register for FREE at CaliforniaAerospaceDay.eventbrite.com. 

Government Relations Update: New unemployment insurance bills you need to know about

Mar 8, 2024 | , , ,

The deadline for new bills is up! Learn what bills may affect your California Manufacturers in your Government Relations update from Ananda Rochita.

📝 CMTA is tracking over 200 bills
💰 Learn what bills may cost California’s manufacturers
🗓️ Almond Day is Official!

Do you want to get exclusive government relations insights from CMTA?

📲 Reach out to members@cmta.net.

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