Marina
Kansas is once again in the spotlight, celebrating the creativity and craftsmanship of its homegrown manufacturing industry.
The Kansas Chamber and Kansas Manufacturing Council have revealed the Top 10 finalists in the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Kansas competition.
From innovative tools to comfort-enhancing products, these standout creations reflect the diversity and front-line ingenuity of Kansas manufacturers. Public voting opens soon—giving everyone a say in choosing the coolest.
Meet the Finalists
Below are the distinguished finalist products showcasing innovation, practicality, and statewide pride:
| Finalist Company | Product |
|---|---|
| AST Solutions, LLC | Sidecut Saw |
| Bess Machining, LLC | Pivot Sign Device |
| Handy Hook | Handy Hook |
| Hess Services, Inc. | Concentric Fire Tube |
| Lindsay | Light Guard Pulse |
| Lowen Color Graphics | Consumer Brands Vehicle Fleet Graphics |
| PlainsCraft | Glamping Covered Wagon |
| Thuasne, LLC | Knit-Rite Liner-Liner Prosthetic Sock |
| Village Coachwork, LLC | Entertainer Coach Conversions |
| Wrax Inc. | Wrax |
What’s Next: People’s Choice Voting
The contest advances to the People’s Choice Voting Round, kicking off on Monday, September 15 and running through Friday, October 3, which coincides with National Manufacturing Day.
Kansans are encouraged to visit www.kansascool.com to cast their votes and help determine the winner.
Awards Ceremony: When & Where
The final results will be unveiled at the Kansas Manufacturing Summit held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Wichita. This event will spotlight the winner and honor the innovation behind all finalist entries.
Spotlight on Innovation
These finalist products span a broad spectrum—from tools like the Sidecut Saw to specialty products like the Glamping Covered Wagon—highlighting how Kansas manufacturers are blending technology, design, and community needs. As emphasized by leadership:
“Kansas manufacturers produce some of the most innovative and impactful products in the nation. This contest shines a spotlight on these outstanding companies—and the hardworking people behind them.” – Coleen Jennison, Kansas Chamber Interim President & CEO
Why the Contest Matters
- Celebrates Local Creativity: It provides a platform for Kansas-based companies to showcase their ingenuity.
- Boosts Manufacturing Awareness: The contest helps raise public understanding of manufacturing’s economic significance.
- Encourages Community Engagement: Public voting brings communities together to rally around their favorite creations.
- Recognizes Excellence: Finalists benefit from publicity, increased brand recognition, and potential business growth.
The unveiling of the Top 10 finalists for the 2025 “Coolest Thing Made in Kansas” brings much-deserved recognition to the state’s manufacturing community.
As voting opens, Kansans have the opportunity to support standout products that embody innovation, local pride, and economic strength.
The final reveal at the October Summit promises not just a celebration—but a powerful showcase of the best Kansas has to offer. Let the public vote begin!