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News & Insights

We’re changing the narrative of the manufacturing industry one story at a time. CMTA’s award-winning storytelling team showcases California’s 30,000 manufacturers by uplifting the voices of our makers. Find industry news and the stories from those “Making California” below. 

Fourth-Generation Walnut Manufacturer Joins CMTA

Nov 19, 2024

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) proudly welcomes Grower Direct Nut Co., a leader in the walnut industry with a rich history in sustainable farming and innovative processing techniques, as a new member of the...

PG&E and Acena Consulting Join CMTA as Associate Members

Nov 7, 2024

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) is proud to welcome two new associate members, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and Acena Consulting to the association. Both companies bring significant expertise that...

CMTA Sponsors City of Fremont’s 13th Annual Manufacturing Week

Oct 30, 2024

Fremont, Calif. – In recognition of National Manufacturing Day on Oct. 4, the City of Fremont hosted its 13th annual celebration of Manufacturing Week from Oct. 8 to Oct. 14. Sponsored by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA), the weeklong...

2024 MakingCA Conference Recap

Oct 29, 2024

Innovation in Manufacturing: Bridging the Gap Between Tradition & Technology 100 people joined CMTA to celebrate California’s 30,000 manufacturers during the 2nd Annual MakingCA Conference on Friday, October, 18, 2024. Speakers included CEO of People’s First Beef...

Press Release

Manufacturing Minute: Join Hundreds in Celebrating California’s Manufacturing Industry in 2025

Dec 10, 2024

This week’s Manufacturing Minute video takes a deep dive into two major events scheduled for March 2025, both designed to celebrate, connect, and inspire the manufacturing community.

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

 

4th Annual Women MakingCA 

 

First, the 4th Annual Women MakingCA Conference will take place on March 13, 2025, at the renowned Kimpton Sawyer Hotel in Sacramento, CA. This event will spotlight the incredible achievements of women in California’s manufacturing industry. Attendees will experience an uplifting day filled with engaging panel discussions, networking opportunities, and the Women MakingCA Awards ceremony. This ceremony honors exceptional leaders who are shaping the future of manufacturing. 

Are you interested in sharing your insights or nominating a trailblazer for recognition? 

CMTA is currently accepting speaker applications until January 10, 2025, and nominations for awardees until January 17, 2025. This annual gathering is more than an event—it’s a celebration of leadership, innovation, and collaboration in the manufacturing industry. 

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to celebrate Women’s History Month and participate in a growing event that empowers women to lead and succeed in manufacturing. Discover how you can secure your spot and apply to be a speaker or awardee here. 

CMTA Annual Membership & Board of Directors Meeting 

 

The excitement continues with CMTA’s Annual Membership & Board of Directors Meeting, taking place March 26-27, 2025, at the iconic Parker Palm Springs. Known for its luxurious ambiance and rich Hollywood history, the Parker provides the perfect setting for this two-day event.   

The agenda includes an optional golf networking event on March 26, followed by a welcome reception to kick off the networking. On March 27, attendees will participate in the Annual Membership Meeting and Board Meeting, which will feature insightful discussions about the state of the manufacturing industry and include lunch and dinner. These conversations will provide valuable insights into navigating challenges and opportunities shaping the future of manufacturing. 

Attendees can take advantage of exclusive room rates at The Parker, which include discounts on spa services. Note that all guests must stay at the hotel to attend the event due to property access policies. Early registration is encouraged, as space is limited for this premier gathering of California’s manufacturing leaders. Learn more and register for this exclusive event here. 

Check out the California Manufacturers & Technology Associations event calendar.

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

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

Nov 26, 2024

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. 

Fourth-Generation Walnut Manufacturer Joins CMTA

Nov 19, 2024

Sacramento, Calif. – The California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) proudly welcomes Grower Direct Nut Co., a leader in the walnut industry with a rich history in sustainable farming and innovative processing techniques, as a new member of the association.

“Grower Direct Nut Co. focuses on quality, sustainability, and innovation, which aligns perfectly with our mission to strengthen California’s manufacturing sector,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of CMTA. “We look forward to supporting their growth and continued success as a family-owned maker.”

Grower Direct Nut Co. processes conventional and organic California walnuts, serving a wide range of markets from industrial food processors to retailers. As a fourth-generation family-owned business, they are committed to producing high-quality walnut products and maintaining strong ties with the agricultural community.

“We are very excited to be joining CMTA and look forward to the robust network of industry peers and resources fostering collaboration and innovation in manufacturing technologies,” said Aaron Martella, President of Grower Direct Nut Co. “We are excited to take advantage of the educational and training opportunities that can enhance workforce skills, driving efficiency and productivity in our company.”

The walnut manufacturer is one of the first growers and packers to develop and market seasoned walnuts and butters. The company also has one of the largest walnut huller and dehydrators in California, with the most modern technology in the industry.

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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. 

About Grower Direct Nut Co.

Grower Direct Nut Co. is a fourth-generation family-owned grower, packer, and shipper of California walnuts. We process in-shell, shelled, and diced conventional and organic walnuts which supply industrial food processors, re-baggers, retailers, and produce markets worldwide. Our vertical integration from field to market allows us to produce safe and high-quality walnut products. We proudly stand behind our services and our products, assuring consistency, reliability, and outstanding quality.

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