Lance Hastings is President & CEO of the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA). Under his leadership, CMTA has gotten a Manufacturing Investment Credit passed with bipartisan support. Before joining CMTA, he served as MillerCoors’ vice president of national affairs. He also served as legislative staff in the California State Legislature for almost a decade. He has served on the board of directors of the Sacramento State Alumni Association, the Los Angeles County Business Federation, and the Food Industry Association Executives. He was appointed to the California Future of Work Commission by Governor Newsom.

Ontario, CA: The Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire (MCIE) has announced that Lance Hastings, President and CEO of the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA), will serve as keynote speaker for the 2026 Manufacturing Innovation Awards.

Hastings leads one of California’s most influential manufacturing advocacy organizations, representing hundreds of manufacturers across the state and working closely with policymakers on issues including economic competitiveness, workforce development, energy, and regulatory policy.

His keynote address will highlight the opportunities and challenges facing California manufacturers, with a focus on innovation, resilience, and the evolving role of advanced manufacturing in the state’s economy.

“Lance Hastings is one of the leading voices for manufacturing in California,” said Dr. Wallace Brithinee, Board President of MCIE. “His perspective on policy, innovation, and industry trends will bring tremendous value to manufacturers here in the Inland Empire.”

“The Inland Empire is home to manufacturers whose innovation, resilience, and leadership are helping move California forward,” said Lance Hastings, President and CEO of the CMTA. “I’m honored to join the Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire in celebrating the companies and individuals whose work represents the strength and future of our industry.”

The 2026 Manufacturing Innovation Awards recognize Inland Empire manufacturers who are driving progress through smart solutions, creative strategies, and measurable results across categories including process innovation, product development, workforce, and marketing.

The event brings together manufacturers, industry leaders, educators, and community partners to celebrate innovation and strengthen the region’s manufacturing ecosystem.

For more information about the Manufacturing Innovation Awards, visit:
www.mfgcouncilie.com/innovation-awards

The Manufacturers’ Council (MCIE) represents manufacturers in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Their efforts include promoting workforce development programs and policies for the region, as well as educating the public on the modern face of manufacturing in the region and the skilled trade opportunities that offer rewarding, high-wage careers.

MCIE’s membership comprises professionals, students, community members, and corporate leadership with interests in manufacturing in Inland Southern California.

The Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire (MCIE) supports education and career training on behalf of manufacturers throughout the region, offering programming and expertise in a variety of topics including innovative workforce solutions. Visit http://www.mfgcouncilie.com or our Linktree at linktr.ee/iemanufacturing for more information on careers, events, and membership.