‘Coolest Thing’ Contest Is Down To The Final Five

The five finalists in the inaugural “Coolest Thing Made In WV” competition include a team that created parts for the Artemis 2 rocket and a 13-year-old Sutton boy who makes Appalachian critters with his growing collection of 3D printers. 

The West Virginia Manufacturers Association (WVMA) announced the top vote-getters on Monday. 

“I think these top 5 products show the diversity of manufacturing in the Mountain State, and it will be interesting to see who comes in first place,” Bill Bissett, WVMA president said in a press release. 

There were more than 3,200 votes cast across the state during the four-week voting period.  

The entries receiving the most votes were: 

• Constellium – A global designer of aluminum products, its Ravenswood location produces high-performance aluminum plates, including aluminum-lithium products for the Artemis 2 rocket. 

• Appalachian Critter Company -- A 3D printing business owned by 13-year-old Silas Young of Sutton who makes colorful animals and other unique products that he sells at fairs and festivals across the state. 

• Warwood Tool Company – A Wheeling-based tool company founded more than 150 years ago that makes tools for everything from coal mining to gardening, including the Pulaski Ax. 

• Mountain Table – A small-batch coffee roaster located in Renick, West Virginia that makes, among other specialty items, bourbon-infused coffee. 

• Never Deer – A manufacturer of original, rain-resistant deer repellent for commercial and residential use. 

The winner will be announced at Blue Ridge Community & Technical College on Oct. 2, in conjunction with National Manufacturing Day. 

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