AEM Members Compete in 'Makers Madness'

Share:

3/5/2020

Maker MadnessEquipment manufacturers, including Caterpillar, Komatsu, and Woods Equipment, are trying to beat the clock during the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association’s Makers Madness contest.

The contest is a bracket-style tournament in which voters will decide the “Coolest Thing Made” in the Prairie State. Voting to choose the Top 16 products began on Feb. 26 and runs through March 8. Products will be narrowed down during three rounds, and will culminate in an awards luncheon at the Governor’s Mansion in Springfield, Illinois on April 1.

“The Cat® 797F Mining Truck is a great example of how products from Illinois can have a positive impact across the globe,” said Henry Vicary, director of community relations for Caterpillar. “When people from all over the world visit the Caterpillar Visitors Center in Peoria they are absolutely awestruck by the sheer size of the massive 797. What is cooler than a truck with 14-foot tall tires?”

“This contest really showcases all the cool products made in Illinois and makes me proud that Woods is among them. Of course, I’m voting for the Woods BrushBull™, but I’d be happy to see Caterpillar or Komatsu also take the “coolest” honor. Afterall, a win for Woods, CAT, or Komatsu is a win for all of us who are proudly employed by equipment manufacturers.” said Angela Kay Larson, vice president, marketing for Woods Equipment.

Vote today to support our equipment manufacturing industry in Makers Madness!

Click to vote: Caterpillar 797F Large Mining Truck
Click to vote: Komatsu America 980E-5 Electric Drive Truck
Click to vote: Woods Equipment BrushBull Rotary Cutter

Subscribe to the AEM Industry Advisor for more AEM news and updates.

AEM Updates

For more AEM news and updates, subscribe to the AEM Industry Advisor.

Related Articles

Industry Standards – How They Differ From Regulations, Why They’re Important, and How Manufacturers Can Make Their Voices Heard

By Mike Schmidt, AEM Director of Industry Communications — Despite the crucial role they play in equipment manufacturing product design and development, voluntary industry...

AEM Unveils “Equipped to Manufacture” Policy Agenda

Investment in infrastructure and farm economy, trade policies aligned with global supply chains, workforce development among recommendations to bolster U.S. equipment...

U.S. and Canadian Agricultural Tractor and Combine Sales Show Mixed Results in February

Total farm tractor sales in the United States declined 12.2% in February, with 9,804 units sold compared to 11,167 units in February 2025. Breaking down the U.S. tractor market...

Secretary of Labor, Members of Congress, and Governor of Nevada Visit CONEXPO-CON/AGG

AEM hosted top state and federal lawmakers at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, giving them a first-hand look at the equipment that builds, feeds, and powers America. Joining more than 140...

Ken Cook’s Aaron Murray: Discover the Future of Our Industry at AEM Product Safety & Stewardship Conference and Liability Seminar

Fresh perspectives. Innovative approaches. Practical solutions that empower industry professionals at every level. Everything AEM members looking to elevate their approach to...

View all AEM Updates