Chromalloy, a company based in Palm Beach Gardens, 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 held in Orlando.
Chromalloy produces FAA-approved jet engine replacement parts, known as Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMAs), for the high-pressure turbine section of aerospace engines. These components are designed in Palm Beach Gardens, cast in Tampa, and machined and coated in Oldsmar.
The competition is organized by the Florida Chamber of Commerce to highlight innovation and economic contributions within the state’s manufacturing sector. According to Mark Wilson, President & CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce: “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 said: “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 over 400,000 votes from Floridians across several rounds of online voting. Dozens of nominations were narrowed down through four rounds to two finalists before Chromalloy was announced as 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 more than 430,000 people statewide with exports exceeding $72 billion each year. The state now ranks tenth nationally for manufacturing employment.
Further information about finalists can be found at www.CoolestThingMadeInFlorida.com.
The Florida Chamber represents businesses across sectors throughout Florida. More details about its activities can be accessed at floridachamber.com.
Chromalloy provides engineering and manufacturing services primarily for aerospace industries; more about its work is available at www.chromalloy.com.
