Equipment 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

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