GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — A powerhouse of Nebraska agriculture has taken top honors in this year’s “Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska” contest. The Case IH Axial-Flow 8250 combine, built at CNH Industrial’s Grand Island plant, was crowned the 2025 winner, beating out a field of innovative creations from across the state.
The statewide competition, hosted by the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance with support from Pinnacle Bank, shines a spotlight on the products and people that drive Nebraska’s manufacturing economy.
Voters narrowed down dozens of entries to a “Sweet 16” list featuring everything from heavy equipment to hometown favorites. Among the finalists were Kawasaki’s Teryx off-road vehicles, Hornady’s precision A-Tip Match bullets, Dorothy Lynch salad dressing, and Valentino’s pizza sauce — each representing the range of craftsmanship and creativity found across the state.
Other standout contenders included Handlebend’s handcrafted copper mugs, Badass Workbench’s industrial-grade workbenches, and Brown Sheep Company’s Nebraska-spun wool yarn, showcasing how diverse Nebraska-made products have become.
The contest is part of the state’s Manufacturing Month celebration, designed to highlight the industry’s nearly 100,000 workers and the role manufacturing plays in supporting rural communities.
Organizers say the competition isn’t just about bragging rights — it’s about pride. From Grand Island’s massive combines to small-town workshops turning out one-of-a-kind creations, each nominee tells the story of Nebraska ingenuity at work.
For CNH Industrial employees, this year’s title is a nod to both craftsmanship and community — proving that one of the coolest things made anywhere in the world starts right here in Nebraska.