Celebrating the best of or coolest things in Tennessee is what The Tennessee Magazine sets out to accomplish, and now a new contest is doing something similar for the manufacturing industry. The Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which also serves as the Tennessee Manufacturer’s Association, hosted the first ever Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee competition this summer.
“This was a really huge opportunity to highlight some of the tremendous and innovative products that are manufactured here in our state,” said Bradley Jackson, the president and CEO of the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The purpose of the first competition was to bring attention not only to the state’s vibrant manufacturing industry, which employed 353,000 people and had over $62 billion in total economic output in 2021, but also the outstanding career possibilities available.
“I think a lot of people may not be aware of the great opportunities that manufacturing can offer them with a high-wage, high-skill job,” Jackson said. “This career allows Tennesseans to contribute to making these awesome products that people recognize around the world.”
The competition initiated in the state of Wisconsin a few years ago, and the chamber felt that Tennessee manufacturers deserved the same recognition and plans to continue doing so in 2025. Some 150 products were submitted by manufacturers, and then those were narrowed down by vote to the top 16, top eight, final four and then the ultimate winner. Five electric cooperatives are home to six products that found a spot in the top 16, including the winner of the competition.
Tennessee Valley Authority
Polysilicon made by Wacker Chemical Corporation in Charleston was one of the 16 coolest things made in Tennessee. It is a key raw material for manufacturing solar cells. The company is found in Volunteer Energy Cooperative’s area, but the Tennessee Valley Authority provides service directly to that manufacturer.
“We’re extremely proud of the important work that Wacker Polysilicon is performing in Bradley County,” said Bert Robinson, TVA east region executive. “Wacker’s leading-edge innovation in the development of materials key to harnessing solar power complements TVA’s efforts to produce increasingly cleaner energy by expanding renewables within our energy mix. Wacker is a wonderful partner, and it’s appropriate to see their products lauded by the Tennessee Manufacturers Association.”
Duck River Electric Membership Corporation
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey also found a spot on the top 16 list. Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 is distilled and bottled in Lynchburg and served by DREMC.
Tennessee Valley Electric Cooperative
Tennessee Valley Electric Cooperative is home to another cool thing made in the state. Gourmet flavored bacons, including coffee cocoa bacon and dill pickle bacon, are made at Hitman Smoked Products in Clifton.
“We are proud of their success and the recognition they have received through this award,” said Gerald L. Taylor Jr., TVEC general manager. “We look forward to continuing to serve them as they continue to grow.”
Volunteer Energy Cooperative
Volunteer Energy Cooperative does provide electricity for manufacturing a product on the cool list. The Whisper Drive Enabled Leaf Blower made by Whisper Aero in Crossville is quieter, has more airflow and uses less energy than competitors.
Middle Tennessee Electric
The Nissan Rogue was named the 2024 Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee. It is made in Smyrna, the plant served by Middle Tennessee Electric, and Duck River Electric Membership Corporation also serves Nissan’s plant in Decherd where Rogue engines are produced.
Smyrna is also home to top 16 product Worm Gear Clamp by Ideal Tridon, which is also served by MTE. This helical threaded screw, or worm gear, prevents hose connections from loosening or leaking.
“Middle Tennessee is home to incredible businesses of all sizes like Nissan and Ideal Tridon,” said Todd Palmer, MTE key accounts coordinator. “We commend them for these accomplishments and are proud to serve as their electric cooperative.”
