CMTC’s Strategic Defense Services: Powering U.S. Military Readiness and Economic Resilience Through Custom Manufacturing
Since 2013, California Manufacturing Technology Consulting® (CMTC) has served as a vital link between the Department of Defense (DoD) and California’s vibrant manufacturing ecosystem, significantly contributing to the readiness, resilience, and modernization of U.S. military forces. Through its specialized Defense Services, CMTC has delivered over $3.8 million worth of critical parts to support key branches of the U.S. military—including the Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Army. These parts are essential to sustaining the operational capabilities of complex military platforms and equipment.
What sets CMTC’s approach apart is its strong emphasis on localized production. An impressive 90% of these defense parts were manufactured within California, utilizing the capabilities of over 50 small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs). This decentralized, in-state production strategy not only strengthens national security by reducing reliance on foreign suppliers but also reinforces California’s economic foundation, fueling job creation and fostering innovation within the state’s industrial base.
Reverse Engineering and Platform Support for the DoD
CMTC’s role extends far beyond the procurement of parts. In close partnership with the DoD and the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), CMTC has engaged in complex reverse engineering efforts that breathe new life into aging military systems. Over the past decade, CMTC engineers have successfully reverse engineered and developed manufacturing drawing packages for more than 30 distinct military platforms. These platforms range from aircraft and naval vessels to tracked ground vehicles and logistical support equipment.
By providing updated technical documentation and engineering solutions, CMTC has helped extend the service life of these critical assets—many of which are legacy systems that no longer have original equipment manufacturer (OEM) support. In doing so, CMTC plays a pivotal role in preserving mission readiness, maintaining force projection capabilities, and ensuring that the military retains access to key systems even in times of global supply chain disruption.
Building a Cyber-Resilient Supply Chain
In an era where digital threats can compromise national security as easily as physical ones, CMTC has made cybersecurity a central pillar of its Defense Services. With cyberattacks on the rise and defense contractors increasingly becoming targets, CMTC has worked proactively to secure the defense industrial base (DIB), particularly in California, which is home to thousands of Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 defense suppliers.
To this end, CMTC has developed and deployed more than 20 cybersecurity training modules tailored specifically to the unique requirements of defense manufacturers. These training programs address a wide range of topics, from compliance with the Department of Defense’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) standards to best practices in endpoint protection, secure file sharing, and risk assessment.
Over the past seven years, more than 300 California-based defense suppliers have taken part in CMTC’s cybersecurity training initiatives. This education and outreach effort has significantly bolstered the cyber readiness of the state’s defense supply chain, safeguarding sensitive military data and reducing the risk of operational disruption caused by cyber threats.
Driving Statewide Impact Through the MEP National Network™
As California’s official Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Center—part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) MEP National Network™—CMTC is uniquely positioned to catalyze growth, innovation, and resilience across the state’s entire manufacturing sector. With over 30 years of experience, CMTC offers consultative services that improve productivity, enhance competitiveness, and promote sustainable growth for both commercial and defense manufacturers.
In 2024 alone, CMTC’s outreach and consulting services reached 1,096 manufacturers across California. The resulting economic impact was substantial:
- $524 million in total sales impact
- $46 million in cost savings
- $137 million in new capital investments
- 21,190 total jobs created and retained
These metrics underscore CMTC’s multifaceted role in the economy—not only as a technical consultant but also as a key economic driver. Whether working with defense contractors, aerospace suppliers, electronics firms, or precision machining companies, CMTC empowers manufacturers to innovate and thrive in competitive global markets.
Comprehensive Services for End-to-End Manufacturing Support
CMTC’s scope of services covers a broad spectrum of manufacturing needs, making it a one-stop shop for organizations looking to improve everything from operations to workforce development. In addition to its Defense and Cybersecurity Services, CMTC supports clients with:
- Lean and Six Sigma Process Optimization
- Supply Chain Management and Supplier Scouting
- Sustainability and Energy Efficiency Programs
- Digital Transformation and Smart Manufacturing
- Quality Systems Implementation
- Workforce Development and Skills Training
These services are customized to fit the unique challenges of each client, whether they are a startup working to scale up production or a legacy manufacturer modernizing a multi-generational operation. CMTC’s consultants bring decades of hands-on industry experience, ensuring that solutions are practical, actionable, and aligned with each organization’s goals.
Strengthening America’s Defense Supply Chain Through Local Solutions
The ripple effect of CMTC’s efforts goes well beyond California. By equipping small manufacturers with the tools, training, and technical support they need to serve the defense sector, CMTC is reinforcing the resilience of the national defense supply chain. These manufacturers form the backbone of American defense readiness, delivering the components, assemblies, and subsystems that keep military operations running smoothly.
CMTC’s work helps insulate the supply chain from international instability, geopolitical risk, and offshore bottlenecks. It also empowers U.S.-based manufacturers to take on a more active role in national defense—ensuring that mission-critical systems are built and maintained within our borders.
A Vision for the Future: Innovation, Resilience, and Readiness
Looking ahead, CMTC continues to evolve in response to emerging defense challenges. Whether it’s supporting next-generation platforms, integrating artificial intelligence and automation into production lines, or addressing workforce shortages through upskilling programs, remains committed to delivering impact-driven solutions at scale.
The organization’s vision is clear: to serve as a trusted advisor and catalyst for California manufacturers, helping them build a stronger, more secure, and more innovative future for the state—and the nation. By blending technical expertise with a deep understanding of the defense sector’s demands, stands at the forefront of American manufacturing excellence.
About CMTC
Established in 1992, California Manufacturing Technology Consulting® is a nonprofit organization that delivers tailored consulting services exclusively to manufacturers throughout California. With a team of seasoned industry experts, helps clients tackle challenges in operations, cybersecurity, strategy, workforce, and growth. Whether supporting the Department of Defense or private manufacturers, mission is to enhance performance, boost competitiveness, and drive long-term success.
