Pacific Steel has broken ground on its 500,000 square foot Mojave Micro Mill in Mojave, California. The company, which produces steel products, has invested in the mill as part of a broader initiative to boost regional economic development and job creation. Nearly 700 new jobs are expected to be created, including positions for electricians, welders, millwrights, and automation specialists.

The Mojave Micro Mill will set new standards in clean steel manufacturing, with the facility featuring an innovative carbon capture system and advanced high-efficiency filtration to reduce emissions. Of the mill’s 174 acres, 63 will be dedicated to on-site renewable energy, helping to support California’s carbon-neutral goals. Additionally, the mill will play a vital role in localizing the supply chain by producing materials critical for public infrastructure, such as steel for roads, bridges, and hospitals.

This project also received support from the California Competes tax credit program, which awarded Pacific Steel a $30 million tax credit in exchange for a commitment to invest $540 million in the mill and create nearly 450 jobs within the first five years of operation. The company is collaborating with local educational institutions like California State University, Bakersfield, and Antelope Valley Community College to establish pathways to employment for students interested in steel manufacturing careers.

What people are saying

In a recent quote, Governor Gavin Newsom said, “Projects like the Mojave Micro Mill show how we can grow our regional economies while simultaneously taking action on climate and improving public health – all key pillars of California Jobs First. In California, we are doubling down on innovative technologies to create jobs and ensure our roads, bridges and hospitals are built with cleaner materials made right here in California.”

Manufacturers investing in California

Siemens invests $95M to expand low-voltage electrical products manufacturing facility in California
The new 100,000-square-foot facility will increase production of critical electrical products for the industrial, commercial, and construction sectors.

ZM Trucks to open its first U.S. automotive manufacturing facility in California
The 210,000-square-foot factory will support the production of a diverse portfolio of zero-emission products.

Bosch receives $225M to manufacture silicon carbide power semiconductors at its California facility
The project is expected to increase the company’s production capacity and create 700 new jobs for the surrounding area.

Investing in American manufacturing in 2025

This map shows where manufacturers are choosing to invest their resources, whether they are building new production facilities or expanding existing plants.