On June 26th, CMTC proudly hosted its first-ever "Ready or Not!" business simulation event in San Diego, CA — an exciting milestone in our efforts to deliver more innovative, hands-on training to California’s manufacturing community.

This unique simulation brought together 28 participants from local manufacturing organizations, Economic Development Corporations (EDCs), and Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) to take on the challenge of running fictional manufacturing companies in a fast-paced, competitive environment. Teams were tasked with making real-time decisions to grow their businesses profitably, testing their leadership, strategy, and collaboration skills.

Participants walked away with practical insights, new ideas to improve operations, and a deeper understanding of how cross-functional teamwork drives smarter business decisions. The day also offered valuable opportunities for peer-to-peer learning and networking, with attendees sharing strategies and experiences to tackle common industry challenges.

CMTC is thrilled with the strong turnout and enthusiastic feedback; and we look forward to hosting more events throughout the state. Keep an eye out for a "Ready or Not!" event near you! In the meantime, please contact comm@cmtc.com if you have questions or would like more information about upcoming events.

Upcoming Events

SCALE: Capital Access Webinar
Hosted by CAMEO Network

In partnership with CMTC and SCALE Partners

When: July 17, 2025 @ 11 AM - 12 PM PDT
Where: Virtual (Zoom)

SCALE: Success, Capital Access and Leadership for Entrepreneurs was created by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) to help California’s small businesses across the state access more resources to start up, grow, and create jobs.

On Thursday, join CMTC, CAMEO Network, and SCALE partners to get connected with resources, support, and mission-driven lenders who want to help your business grow and thrive!

CMTC Client Spotlight

“It was fantastic working with CMTC – they have a great support team. As a manufacturer, it sometimes feels like we are on an island; and CMTC really helps us get out of that. California manufacturing wouldn't be what it is without CMTC.”

— Matt Sand, CEO

⚠️ Challenge:

• As a start-up, Avalon Mfg faced early challenges, especially the need to obtain AS9100 Certification, which was critical for meeting customer requirements

💡 Solution:

• CMTC guided Avalon Mfg through the AS9100 Certification process, starting with a gap analysis and detailed implementation plan to align operations with certification requirements
• CMTC provided support with documentation updates, training, internal audits, and ongoing coaching to ensure full preparedness for successful certification

📈 Impact:

• AS9100 Certification which led to instant credibility, high-value inbound leads, and positioning as a trusted, reliable supplier
• $750,000 increase in sales
• $63,000 increase in cost savings

Continuous Improvement 3-Part Blog Series

Continuous Improvement - Part 1:
Introduction to Operational Best Practices

In today’s fast-paced business environment, continuous improvement is not just a best practice — it’s a necessity for staying competitive. By consistently refining processes, businesses can reduce costs, enhance responsiveness, and increase overall capacity, all while boosting customer satisfaction. However, effective improvement efforts should be proactive rather than reactive, identifying and addressing potential challenges before they become major obstacles. This blog is the first in a three-part series introducing CMTC’s approach to operational best practices through continuous improvement. In Part 1, we’ll explore the foundational concepts that help companies go from reactive to proactive, reduce waste, improve flow, and build momentum toward sustainable success...

Continuous Improvement - Part 2:
Problem Solving & Implementation to
Achieve Your Continuous Improvement Goals

It’s one thing to spot a problem. It’s another to solve it. In Part 1 of this series, we introduced the fundamentals of continuous improvement: shifting from reactive to proactive operations, reducing waste, and increasing efficiency through Lean and Six Sigma principles. But identifying opportunities is only half the battle. The real test lies in implementation and in sustaining results once the initial momentum wears off. For Part 2, we’re digging into the practical side of meeting continuous improvement goals. Let’s begin where most manufacturers find themselves stuck: solving the same problems again and again…

Continuous Improvement - Part 3:
Key Tools for Continuous Improvement

So far in our continuous improvement series, we’ve covered the basics of implementing a continuous improvement philosophy, as well as some of the core concepts that will help you solve problems more efficiently. But identifying and solving problems is only part of the journey. The next step is redesigning your processes so those problems don’t return. For Part 3, we’re getting into the tactical side of continuous improvement. This blog will cover practical strategies manufacturers can use to reduce lead time, eliminate waste, and contribute to overall operational improvements. Let’s begin with the relationship that underpins most manufacturing inefficiencies: lead time and cost…

CLICK HERE TO VIEW OUR BLOG

Monthly Supply Chain Insights: July 2025

Reshoring Strategies for California Manufacturers

Relocating manufacturing operations to the U.S. requires more than just moving equipment and contracts. To minimize disruption and ensure a smooth transition, companies must first conduct a thorough supply chain feasibility assessment. This includes evaluating domestic supplier availability, labor market dynamics, regulatory & tax implications, and proximity to end markets. An effective relocation plan also factors in logistics infrastructure, real estate options, lead time recalculations, and the potential need for dual sourcing during the transition to avoid gaps in production or fulfillment.

Maximizing return on investment (ROI) comes from treating relocation not just as a tactical shift but as a strategic transformation opportunity. Companies that align their reshoring strategy with broader goals — such as increasing automation, strengthening supplier partnerships, improving quality control, and shortening cash-to-cash cycles — are more likely to capture long-term value. Success depends on cross-functional planning; robust risk management; and stakeholder engagement across engineering, operations, finance, and compliance. With the right roadmap, moving production to the U.S. can drive resilience, speed, and sustainability in today’s global marketplace.

Embarking on a reshoring journey? A good place to start is analyzing your organization's current state. Click here to take our FREE Supply Chain Self-Assessment to identify potential gaps in your supply chain strategic plans.

Open Supplier Scouting Opportunities

Made in California Showcase

Today’s customers are looking for American-made products because they associate them with quality. In fact, research studies have revealed that 60% of Americans are willing to pay more for products made here at home. There’s no cost to join the other 1,500-plus Made in CA members, just click here to sign up.

This Month's Featured Manufacturers

FRONT HARNESS  |  THE LABEL COMPANY

PT ENGINEERING  |  HIGH SEAS TRADING CO.

Every month, CMTC is proud to showcase manufacturers participating in the Made in CA Program. Featured companies appear in order from when they qualified for and joined the Program. Each week, one of this month's featured manufacturers is promoted on the Made in CA social media sites, giving each company more visibility. 

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