Aerial Firefighting Helicopter Refill Pump wins 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS) — The Aerial Firefighting Helicopter Refill Pump, manufactured by MTH Pumps in Plano, has been named the winner of the 2025 "Makers Madness" contest, earning the title of The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois. The announcement was made by Governor JB Pritzker during a ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion on Wednesday.

Chosen from over 250 entries and nearly 411,000 votes cast during the eight-week competition, the refill pump was recognized for its innovative design that reduces the refill time of helicopter-based water tanks from over a minute to as little as 30 seconds. This efficiency allows aerial firefighters to increase the number of water drops on wildfires, enhancing efforts to protect lives, property, and habitats.

"Congratulations to Aerial Firefighting Helicopter Refill Pump for being named the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Illinois," said Mark Denzler, President and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association. "This product is a great example of the bold ideas, creativity and innovation that powers the manufacturing sector here in Illinois."

Governor Pritzker praised the state's manufacturing industry, saying, "Illinois’ world-class manufacturing industry is leading the charge as one of the top drivers of our continued economic success here in Illinois, and that’s thanks to the incredible innovators all across our state."

Tim Tremain, President of MTH Pumps, expressed his gratitude, stating, "As a small manufacturer, our team is honored and excited to have our Aerial Firefighting Refill Pumps join the ranks of products from prior winners like Caterpillar, Rivian and Komatsu."

Other finalists included the Joint Combined Aircrew Systems Tester by Chemring Energetic Devices, Donor Milk by Mother’s Milk Bank of Western Great Lakes, and the ROV Skimmer by Elastec.

Sean McCarthy, Comcast’s Regional Vice President of Business Development and Strategic Initiatives, also extended congratulations, noting, "Comcast is proud to support the Makers Madness competition again this year and partner with the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association to showcase the many unique and impactful products manufactured throughout our state."