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The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) has launched its
sixth annual “Makers Madness” bracket-style contest to determine
the top product manufactured across the state. Any product that
is manufactured in Illinois can be nominated for the tournament.
Nominations are being accepted at makersmadnessil.com through
March 2, and voting to narrow the field to the top 16 products
will begin two days later.
“Whether it is your favorite food or beverage, a transportation
product, sports equipment, there are so many products made
across the state, it really is a great way to showcase these
products and show some pride in Illinois and what’s made here,”
said IMA president and CEO Mark Denzler.
Last year’s champion was the Komatsu mining truck, a massive
capacity vehicle used for construction and mining made in
Peoria. Past winners include a self-regulating traffic signal
heater made by Termico Technologies in Elk Grove Village,
Rivian’s electric R1T truck made in Normal, and a 3D-printed
polymer moon habitat manufactured by Rosenberg in Rockford.
Denzler said the contest is a good way to show just how
important manufacturing is to Illinois.
“There are 650,000 workers in the manufacturing sector, it
contributes the single largest share of our state’s economy,
about 14%, and to highlight manufacturing as a critical cog in
the state’s economy,” said Denzler.
The winner of this year’s Coolest Thing Made in Illinois will be
announced April 9 during an awards luncheon at the Governor’s
Mansion in Springfield.
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