NC Chamber’s ‘Coolest Thing’ Contest Celebrates Manufacturing Diversity in Tar Heel State
The November 2025 issue of Business North Carolina triumphantly unveiled the winners of the NC Chamber’s prestigious “Coolest Thing” contest, emphasizing the rich diversity embedded in North Carolina’s manufacturing sector. After receiving over 45,000 votes and filtering through 188 nominations, Siemens Mobility, World Cat Boats, and Ordway Glass Company topped the tally in the large, medium, and small business categories, respectively.
The Thriving Landscape of North Carolina Manufacturing
Manufacturing holds a pivotal role in North Carolina’s economy, contributing over 13.3% to the state’s gross domestic product and employing more than 10% of the workforce. This recognition by the NC Chamber serves not only as a celebration of local manufacturing excellence but also as an endorsement of its significance in the state’s economic tapestry. Sponsored by Baxter, a notable producer of the nation’s IV bags, and partnered with Business North Carolina, the contest highlights achievements across the manufacturing spectrum—from innovative rail systems to bespoke stained glass.
Large Business Winner: Siemens Mobility
Situated in Lexington, Siemens Mobility kicked off operations in January 2025 with its new $220 million facility dedicated to the production of passenger coaches and other railway endeavors. This site is not only a hub of advanced manufacturing technologies, including robotic welding and 3D printing, but it is also a beacon of job creation, expecting to double its workforce by 2028.
“Recognizing our coaches as the ‘Coolest Thing’ underscores the dedication of our team here in North Carolina, driving the next great chapter of American rail manufacturing,” commented a Siemens representative. The new coaches, destined for Amtrak, are celebrated for their speed, energy efficiency, and comfort. However, the company remains discreet about the production costs.
Medium Business Winner: World Cat Boats
World Cat Boats, operating from Tarboro since 2002, has carved out a niche in the maritime market with its high-quality, hand-built catamaran boats. With prices ranging between $100,000 and $1 million, these vessels have a global reach, appealing to enthusiasts and professionals alike. This year, World Cat Boats projects production of 400 boats, a significant increase from the previous year’s 300, illustrating its robust growth trajectory.
“We take pride in our craftsmanship,” a spokesperson from World Cat Boats stated. “This award highlights the dedication of our team to hand-build each boat, ensuring quality from stem to stern, without the use of robotic automation.” The company emphasizes its commitment to design excellence, fostering a sense of community among employees and stakeholders.
Small Business Winner: Ordway Glass Company
Rounding out the winners is the Ordway Glass Company, a small but mighty operation from Fuquay-Varina launched in June 2024 by husband-and-wife duo Bogdan and Nicole Ionescu. Specializing in custom and stained glass repair, Ordway caters to a blossoming demand for both artistic commissions and delicate restorations. With a price range of $250 to $300 per square foot for their custom work, the company has established itself as a key player in the niche craft of stained glass.
“Winning this contest so early in our journey is both thrilling and unexpected,” co-founder Nicole remarked. “We’re experiencing a renaissance in stained glass art, and there’s a real need for professional studios that can handle both unique commissions and meticulous repairs.”
Impact and Future Implications
The NC Chamber’s contest not only draws attention to these individual triumphs but also casts a spotlight on the broader significance of manufacturing diversity in North Carolina. For local communities, these businesses represent more than economic drivers—they are sources of pride and resilience. Their success stories reflect a dynamic interplay of innovation, tradition, and community involvement that fuels economic development across the state.
Mary Ryan, an economic analyst based in Raleigh, notes the broader implications: “The sustained investment in manufacturing underscores North Carolina’s strategic priorities and commitment to retaining a competitive edge in various industries. This recognition bolsters our state’s prowess in manufacturing diversity and innovation.”
Looking ahead, these awards could enhance partnerships between manufacturing entities and local governments, encouraging infrastructure improvements and workforce development initiatives tailored to the unique needs of the state’s diverse industrial environment. By fostering such collaborations, North Carolina can continue to attract new industries while nurturing existing ones.
Resources and Further Information
For those interested in learning more about the winners and the NC Chamber’s initiatives, Business North Carolina’s website offers in-depth profiles and interviews, while the NC Chamber provides resources for businesses seeking to participate in future contests. Community members are encouraged to engage with these resources to stay informed and involved in supporting local business endeavors.
As this chapter unfolds, it promises exciting developments for North Carolina residents and manufacturers alike. The diverse range of ideas and practices celebrated by the NC Chamber resonates with a community interest that will undoubtedly pave the way for future innovations and successes within the Tar Heel State’s manufacturing landscape.
