Transportation & Infrastructure
California’s manufacturers need quality infrastructure. Reliable infrastructure – from highways, roads, rails, ports, and aviation to the pipelines, electrical, communication, and water infrastructure – enables our industry to coordinate better and move products efficiently to a global market. California’s ability to identify and effectively address these challenges will allow the industry and our employees to prosper.
Manufacturing Minute: Union Pacific’s Big Boy Steam Locomotive Coming to California
This week's Manufacturing Minute brings exciting developments across the manufacturing sector in California from our CMTA members. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies. https://youtu.be/FIaKfyv4oSM Watch the latest episode in the video player...
Sustainable House Manufacturer, ReMo Homes, Joins CMTA
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...
Manufacturing Minute: Tandem PV Awarded $4.7 Million to Advance New Solar Technology
In this week's Manufacturing Minute, we highlight three significant developments in the manufacturing sector. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies. https://youtu.be/FbUPSHYhM0g U.S. Department of Energy Awards CMTA Member, Tandem PV, with New...
Manufacturing Minute: SF State Receives A $14 Million Grant from The Genentech Foundation
This week's Manufacturing Minute highlights three significant advancements that are shaping the industry's future. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_BLxyJ_BRaI $14 Million STEM Grant to San Francisco...
Manufacturing Minute: Siemens Mobility Selected to Manufacture Trains for High-Speed Rail Project
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. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MpVhnc_AOI Siemens High-Speed Rail Project Siemens Mobility, a...
Microgrid Industry Leader, Enchanted Rock, Joins CMTA
Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) officially welcomed Enchanted Rock, an industry leader in electrical resiliency-as-a-service, to the organization today. Enchanted Rock is leading the way with its innovative...
Manufacturing Minute: The U.S. Department of Energy Awards Funding to California Manufacturers
Find out California’s manufacturing news in the latest Manufacturing Minute episode with CMTA’s Vice President of Communications, Ananda Rochita. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies. This week's Manufacturing Minute brings significant strides in...
Manufacturing Minute: Stratolaunch’s Hypersonic Test Vehicle Takes First Flight in California
This week's Manufacturing Minute, powered by Tri Tool Technologies, highlights significant developments in the aerospace and technology sectors. Boeing, a board member of CMTA and member of the Aerospace and Defense Alliance of California (ADAC), secured a...
Manufacturing Minute: Northrop Grumman Teaming Up with the U.S. Air Force
Find out California’s latest manufacturing news in the newest Manufacturing Minute episode with CMTA’s Vice President of Communications, Ananda Rochita. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies. ⚙️ Wisk is on its way to get its eVTOL Certification💫 ...
Manufacturing Minute: Samsung Opening New Semiconductor Campus in Northern California
A tech industry giant just announced its brand-new semiconductor facility in the Sacramento region. Find out California’s latest manufacturing news in the newest Manufacturing Minute episode with CMTA’s Vice President of Communications, Ananda Rochita. Manufacturing...
Press Releases
Manufacturing Minute: Union Pacific’s Big Boy Steam Locomotive Coming to California
This week’s Manufacturing Minute brings exciting developments across the manufacturing sector in California from our CMTA members. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.
Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 is Coming to California
Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 |Courtesy of Union Pacific
First, CMTA board member Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest steam locomotive, will be on display in Roseville on July 12-13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event, part of Union Pacific’s “Big Boy Westward Bound” tour, honors the rich legacy of Union Pacific while celebrating its employees and the communities it serves. The City of Roseville is enhancing the event with additional activities at Vernon Street Town Square on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., alongside a special exhibit at the Carnegie Museum in Old Town Roseville.
This historic locomotive, initially delivered in 1941 and retired in 1961 after traveling over a million miles, was restored in 2019 and is a testament to Union Pacific’s storied history and commitment to preservation.
PepsiCo Expands EV Fleet Across California
Tesla Class 8 Semi-Truck | Courtesy of PepsiCo
Next, PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA), CMTA’s newest member, is making significant strides in sustainable transportation by expanding its electric-powered fleet in California. The deployment of fifty Class 8 Tesla semi-trucks and seventy-five Ford E-Transit electric vans will revolutionize PBNA’s logistics operations. This initiative aligns with PepsiCo’s ambitious pep+ goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. This project is a part of California Climate Investments, supported by grants from the California Air Resources Board, the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District, and the California Energy Commission.
PepsiCo’s Fresno facility, a 170,000-square-foot manufacturing plant, is now equipped with advanced Tesla chargers and Megapack Battery Energy Storage Systems to support these new electric vehicles, marking a substantial step towards a greener future.
Stay up to date with all manufacturing news by following CMTA on social media.
Sustainable House Manufacturer, ReMo Homes, Joins CMTA
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: Tandem PV Awarded $4.7 Million to Advance New Solar Technology
In this week’s Manufacturing Minute, we highlight three significant developments in the manufacturing sector. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.
U.S. Department of Energy Awards CMTA Member, Tandem PV, with New Funding
Courtesy of Tandem PV
CMTA member Tandem PV, a leader in perovskite solar technology, has been awarded $4.7 million by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO). This funding will support the commercialization of Tandem PV’s innovative thin-film solar photovoltaic technology. Combining conventional silicon solar cells with perovskite materials allows Tandem PV panels to achieve up to 40% more power than traditional panels. The Silicon Valley company is currently producing panels with 26% efficiency. The company’s technology promises to lower installation and land acquisition costs, making solar energy more affordable and efficient for consumers.
CMTA Board Member, Boeing’s, Huge Milestone
Courtesy of Boeing
First, CMTA board member company, Boeing, successfully launched its first crewed flight test of the Starliner mission, marking a decade-long milestone. Veteran NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams embarked on this mission, riding the Starliner capsule to the International Space Station (ISS) on June 5, 2024. After separating from its rocket stages, the spacecraft entered orbit and began its 24-hour journey to the ISS. This mission is essential as it works towards NASA’s certification of the Starliner for routine astronaut missions.
2024 MakingCA Conference Call for Speakers
2023 MakingCA Conference Keynote Speaker Eric Edelson, Fireclay Tile
We are excited to announce that CMTA is seeking speakers and panelists for the 2nd Annual MakingCA Conference in October. Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, which attracted nearly 150 business leaders, manufacturing employees, advocates, and partners, this year’s conference promises to be even more impactful. Interested individuals can apply by filling out the form here, with a submission deadline of August 20, 2024. The conference also features the recognition of the “Coolest Thing Made in California” competition winner. Selected speakers will receive complimentary registration and extensive promotion across CMTA’s platforms.
Learn more about our upcoming MakingCA Conference here.
Manufacturing Minute: SF State Receives A $14 Million Grant from The Genentech Foundation
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
Manufacturing Minute: Siemens Mobility Selected to Manufacture Trains for High-Speed Rail Project
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.
Microgrid Industry Leader, Enchanted Rock, Joins CMTA
Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) officially welcomed Enchanted Rock, an industry leader in electrical resiliency-as-a-service, to the organization today.
Enchanted Rock is leading the way with its innovative dual-purpose microgrids that protect against power outages and disturbances for businesses, vital infrastructure, and communities, all while contributing to grid stability.
“As California continues to transition to emissions-reducing technologies, reliable energy grids are vital for the productivity of our state’s manufacturers,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of CMTA. “CMTA is excited to welcome Enchanted Rock as a member and we’re looking forward to working with their team as we head into the future of manufacturing.”
The company’s natural gas generator is the first reciprocating engine to attain the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Distributed Generation (DG) certification, meeting the strictest emissions standards nationwide.
“Enchanted Rock is steadfast in our commitment to assisting California’s manufacturing and technology sectors in their efforts to meet the state’s near- and long-term climate goals, including net-zero by 2045,” said Scott Lipton, Energy Policy Manager of Enchanted Rock. “Joining forces with the California Manufacturers & Technology Association, enables us to lend our expertise to crucial policy discussions, especially in strengthening energy resilience and supporting the ongoing expansion of manufacturing within the state. Together, we will be able to amplify our impact, driving progress and fostering innovation for California’s industries.”
Enchanted Rock helps their clients reach their decarbonization goals by prioritizing the use of the cleanest fuels available, from utilizing natural gas and renewable natural gas today to exploring hydrogen blends and advanced technologies for the future.
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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 Enchanted Rock
Founded in 2006, Enchanted Rock is a national leader in electrical resiliency-as-a-service, powering companies, critical infrastructure, and communities to ensure business continuity during unexpected power outages from extreme weather, infrastructure failures, cyberattacks and other grid disruptions. Enchanted Rock’s dual-purpose microgrids use natural gas and renewable natural gas (RNG) to produce significantly lower carbon emissions and air pollutants than diesel generators, capable of achieving resiliency with net-zero emissions. Additionally, the company’s end-to-end microgrid software platform, GraniteEcosystem™, provides real-time 24/7/365 system monitoring and optimization, including forecasting of electricity market conditions to provide grid support services and ensure cost-effective, worry-free reliable power to customers. For more information, please visit www.enchantedrock.com or LinkedIn.
Manufacturing Minute: The U.S. Department of Energy Awards Funding to California Manufacturers
Find out California’s manufacturing news in the latest Manufacturing Minute episode with CMTA’s Vice President of Communications, Ananda Rochita. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.
This week’s Manufacturing Minute brings significant strides in decarbonization efforts across various energy-intensive industries in California.
Several of CMTA’s board member companies, including Gallo Glass, International Paper, and ExxonMobil, are among the 33 recipients selected to deploy the first-in-the-nation emissions-reducing technologies. These projects are part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s previous announcement of up to $6 billion in funding through the Inflation Reduction Act and 2021’s infrastructure law.
These projects not only aim to cut emissions but also potentially revolutionize the energy and transportation manufacturing sectors, reinforcing the future of U.S. manufacturers on a path toward sustainability.
Photo Courtesy: Pacific Steel Group
Plans for the state’s first steel mill built in a half-century are in the works.
The Kern County Board of Supervisors has officially approved the Pacific Steel Group’s plans for a scrap metal recycling and steel rebar mill. These plans mark a significant development in California’s manufacturing landscape, as this will be the state’s first mill constructed in over 50 years. The mill will span 174 acres and be powered predominantly by a 63-acre solar array to work towards sustainable manufacturing practices. With the creation of an estimated 400 full-time jobs post-construction, this project not only boosts local economies but also positions California as a hub for innovative steel production.
Photo Courtesy: KTVU Fox 2 News
The U.S. Labor Secretary recently took a trip to one of the nation’s oldest bus manufacturers right here in California.
The U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su’s recent visit to Gillig, a 134-year-old bus manufacturing company, highlights the connection between sustainable transportation and manufacturing. With a focus on investing in green technology and combating climate change, Su’s visit underscores the importance of infrastructure development and innovation in shaping the future of transportation.
Gillig’s diverse propulsion systems helped showcase insights into electric vehicle performance and grid infrastructure. As research and development efforts intensify, the manufacturing sector remains committed to driving technological advancements that will redefine the landscape of sustainable mobility.
Manufacturing Minute: Stratolaunch’s Hypersonic Test Vehicle Takes First Flight in California
This week’s Manufacturing Minute, powered by Tri Tool Technologies, highlights significant developments in the aerospace and technology sectors.
Boeing, a board member of CMTA and member of the Aerospace and Defense Alliance of California (ADAC), secured a substantial $439.6 million contract to construct the 12th Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) communications satellite for the U.S. Space Force. This contract will enhance crucial communication capabilities for military and allied operations.
Stratolaunch, LLC, another CMTA and ADAC member, celebrated a milestone with the successful inaugural flight of the Talon-A test vehicle. After multiple tests to fully power the Talon A, it took off from the Roc carrier plane and flew over the Pacific Ocean on the California coast at hypersonic speeds. Stratolaunch’s Roc plane is one of the largest in the world. The Talon A vehicle is pivotal in advancing privately funded hypersonic test capabilities.
Finally, the Biden Administration’s $300 million in semiconductor packaging research and development funding is going out to companies. This funding is a commitment to bolstering technology innovation, particularly in the critical semiconductor sector, as part of the CHIPS for America program.
These industry updates represent significant strides in aerospace technology and semiconductor research, showcasing the continued progress and innovation within California’s manufacturing industry. Watch your Manufacturing Minute powered by Tri Tool Technologies in the video player below.
Manufacturing Minute: Northrop Grumman Teaming Up with the U.S. Air Force
Find out California’s latest manufacturing news in the newest Manufacturing Minute episode with CMTA’s Vice President of Communications, Ananda Rochita. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.
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⚙️ Learn why Northrop Grumman is teaming up with the U.S. Air Force ✈️
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Manufacturing Minute: Samsung Opening New Semiconductor Campus in Northern California
A tech industry giant just announced its brand-new semiconductor facility in the Sacramento region. Find out California’s latest manufacturing news in the newest Manufacturing Minute episode with CMTA’s Vice President of Communications, Ananda Rochita. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.
⚙️ Find out why a California AI Robot Manufacturer partnered with BMW Manufacturing
⚙️ Learn more about the new semiconductor campus in the Sacramento region
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