California is flexing its muscles again as Pacific Steel officially breaks ground on the first new steel mill in the Golden State in over 50 years. If that doesn’t make you feel a bit nostalgic (or, you know, hopeful), you might want to check your pulse.

This isn’t just any ordinary construction site; it’s a concrete testament to a community-led, climate-forward economy. Looks like Governor Newsom got the memo during his tour of the Kern County Jobs First Collaborative last November, where he heard all about the locals’ economic aspirations. Turns out, those aspirations include creating good-paying jobs in industries that don’t roast the planet, an absolute refresh in our current climate.

With a $30 million boost from the California Competes tax credit, the Mill’s all set to create about 450 new jobs within the first five years. Take that, Wall Street! This tax credit isn’t just a handout; it’s a solid investment in sustainability. Both Pacific Steel and Newsom seem convinced that a steel mill can help push California toward being a carbon-neutral paradigm, who knew, right?

Not only will this mill kickstart local economic activity, but it also aims to redefine steel manufacturing. Expect 63 of its 174 acres to be dedicated to renewable energy, along with a shiny new carbon capture system. In an era where doomscrolling about climate change is a sport, that’s a pretty radical move.

The mill won’t just be churning out steel; it will also serve as an educational hub. Through partnerships with schools like California State University, Bakersfield, students will get their shot at a career in steel manufacturing. Maybe future generations won’t have to worry as much about unemployment if they learn on-site. Add some on-the-job training to that, and we might literally be picking up pieces of our economy while saving the world.

As one of the top states for clean energy jobs, California is making moves to stay ahead in the clean energy game. Whether you’re sipping artisan coffee in the Mission or scrolling through Twitter, remember: the future is being built right now in Kern County. Let’s raise a hypothetical toast to that, because nothing says resilience like a new steel mill and some fresh job opportunities.