Vermeer’s ZR5-1200 self-propelled baler was recently announced as the winner of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry and MidWestOne Bank’s 2024 Coolest Thing Made in Iowa. Following the June announcement, Vermeer celebrated the accomplishment last week when the Association of Equipment Manufacturers brought their Manufacturing Express to the Global Pavilion.

The competition, which was held for the first time this year, served to draw attention to Iowa’s manufacturing industry and the careers available throughout the state. Nominations for the competition were opened to the public in mid-April. After an initial popular vote round and a bracket-style tournament, four finalists competed for the Coolest Thing Made in Iowa trophy, with Vermeer’s self-propelled baler taking the top spot. Iowa Association of Business and Industry Marketing and Communications Director Kelsey O’Connor says that while they had no say in selecting the winner, they were glad to see a leader in Iowa’s manufacturing industry earn the first annual award.

“They are such a staple in Iowa and the Pella community, and we couldn’t be prouder. They are a great ABI member as well and leaders of their organization have served on our board, have been very active in the organization, and made a big difference in the manufacturing industry. So yeah, we were super happy for them.”

Hear more about the Coolest Thing Made in Iowa competition and the Vermeer ZR5-1200 self propelled baler on today’s Let’s Talk Pella.