Governor Newsom Showcases X-59 as “Coolest Thing Made in California”
In a recent celebration of California’s manufacturing excellence, Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the X-59 aircraft as the “Coolest Thing Made in California.” This recognition is part of a broader initiative that included over 200,000 public votes cast in a contest designed to showcase the state’s manufacturing achievements during Manufacturing Month in October.
Top Products in California’s Manufacturing Showcase
The “Coolest Thing Made in California” competition revealed notable finalists:
- Siemens Amtrak Airo Trainset – Sacramento
- Phillips 66’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel – Rodeo
- Saildrone’s Voyager – Alameda
This initiative not only celebrates innovation but also highlights California’s significant role in economic growth. The state stands as a global leader in aerospace and defense, contributing substantially to the U.S. economy.
The Role of Aerospace in California
California hosts one-third of the nation’s space technology firms, employing the highest number of aerospace engineers and defense professionals. Companies like Lockheed Martin provide thousands of jobs across multiple sites, including its renowned Skunk Works facility in Palmdale.
Advancements in Supersonic Flight
The X-59 aircraft, developed through a partnership between Lockheed Martin and NASA, addresses a critical issue in supersonic travel: the sonic boom. For over a decade, this collaboration has focused on minimizing the noise during supersonic flight.
The X-59 will serve as a testbed to gather community feedback on its low-noise sonic “thump.” This information is expected to aid NASA in establishing new regulations for quiet commercial supersonic flights over land, potentially revolutionizing air travel.
California’s Manufacturing Landscape
According to the California Jobs First Blueprint, the state’s manufacturing sector encompasses diverse industries, including:
- Aerospace & Defense
- Clean Technology
- High Technology
- Life Sciences
- Agriculture and Water Management
With over 45,000 manufacturing establishments, California employs more than 1.24 million residents in various capacities. The state continues to lead in innovation, supplying high-tech products, aerospace components, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductors worldwide.
Export Figures
In 2024, California exported manufactured goods worth $155.2 billion. This impressive figure underscores California’s status as a crucial player in global trade.
Governor Newsom’s recognition of the X-59 as the “Coolest Thing Made in California” reflects the state’s commitment to advancing technology and industry, celebrating its role in shaping the future of manufacturing.
