Innovation, speed and a little Midwestern ingenuity were the winning qualities behind this year’s Makers Madness champion. The title of “Coolest Thing Made in Illinois” went to MTH Pump. This small, Plano-based manufacturer created a game-changing pump that provides rapid, reliable water access for aerial firefighting teams.

This new pump is designed to refill in just 30 seconds, down from the usual minute or more, and could significantly increase the speed and effectiveness of aerial firefighting. This Illinois-made invention could make a lifesaving difference in emergencies where every second matters.

Now in its fifth year, Makers Madness is hosted by the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and celebrates the state’s long-standing legacy of manufacturing excellence. The statewide tournament calls on the public to vote for their favorite product made in Illinois. Past winners have included industry giants like Caterpillar and Rivian—making this year’s win by a small team from MTH Pump all the more impressive.

This year’s contest reminds us that big ideas don’t always come from big companies in Illinois and that small teams can make a major impact.