Chromalloy, a company based in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, has been named the winner of the first “Coolest Thing Made in Florida” competition for its jet engine blades. The announcement was made during the Future of Florida Forum and Florida Chamber Annual Meeting in Orlando.
The competition, organized by the Florida Chamber of Commerce, aims to highlight innovation and economic contributions within the state’s manufacturing sector. Chromalloy produces FAA-approved jet engine replacement parts, specifically high-pressure turbine blades. These parts are designed in Palm Beach Gardens, cast in Tampa, and machined and coated in Oldsmar.
Mark Wilson, President & CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, said: “This contest is an important way to spotlight the creativity and dedication that define Florida manufacturers. The Florida Chamber is honored to recognize companies that are creating jobs, advancing innovation, and helping achieve the goals of the Florida 2030 Blueprint — including making Florida a Top 5 manufacturing state by 2030.”
Jason Mahon, Deputy Secretary of Economic Development & Chief Manufacturing Officer for FloridaCommerce, stated: “Florida manufacturers are showing the nation what makes our state a leader in innovation and job creation. This competition shines a spotlight on the talent, creativity, and products that are driving our economy and putting Florida on the map for manufacturing excellence.”
The inaugural year saw strong participation from Floridians with more than 400,000 votes cast over several rounds of online voting. Dozens of nominations were narrowed down through four rounds to two finalists before Chromalloy was announced as the winner.
Chris Celtruda, CEO of Chromalloy, said: “We are deeply honored to be named the inaugural winner of the Coolest Thing Made in Florida competition. This recognition reflects the dedication and ingenuity of the entire Chromalloy workforce—especially our teams in Tampa Bay and Palm Beach Gardens—whose commitment to innovation and excellence continues to shape our industry and strengthen Florida’s manufacturing legacy. We’re proud to make Florida a cornerstone of our strategic growth and to build products that embody both cutting-edge technology and the spirit of our state.”
Florida’s manufacturing sector employs over 430,000 people statewide and contributes more than $72 billion annually in exports. The state currently ranks tenth nationally for manufacturing employment but aims to reach a top-five ranking by 2030.
Further information about this competition can be found at www.CoolestThingMadeInFlorida.com.
