LINCOLN, Nebraska — August 27, 2025 — The fourth annual Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska competition has officially unveiled its Top 16 products.  From farm equipment to iconic foods, Nebraskans now have the chance to decide which product will claim the 2025 title.

Voting is open for the first round of the bracket-style competition and will continue through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, September 7.  Advanced rounds will follow throughout September. Manufacturers, students and all Nebraskans are invited to cast their votes for their favorite product each week at www.nemanufacturingalliance.com.

The competition, hosted by the NE Chamber and NE Manufacturing Alliance, and presented by Pinnacle Bank, celebrates Nebraska’s dynamic manufacturing industry, home to more than 100,000 Nebraskans working in manufacturing every day.

Top 16 Finalists:

• Allmand Light Towers – Allmand, Holdrege
• Double Wide Badass Workbench – Badass Workbench, Kearney
• World’s Largest Folding Corn Head – Bish Enterprises, Giltner
• Basketball Hoops – Bison Inc., Lincoln
• High School Elite Aluminum Hurdle – Blazer Athletic Equipment, Columbus
• Wool Yarn – Brown Sheep Company, Scottsbluff
• AF Series Combine Harvester – CASE IH, Grand Island
• Hideaway Copper Mugs – Handlebend, O’Neill
• A-Tip Match Bullets – Hornady Manufacturing, Grand Island
• Teryx4 H2 / Teryx5 H2 – Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp., Lincoln
• Tapered Tube Transmission Line Poles – Klute Inc., York
• Custom Artificial Limbs – Limb Lab, Lincoln
• Digital Scorer’s Table – Fourth Wall, a Lincoln Industries brand, Lincoln
• Big M Commercial Smoker – M Grills, Beatrice
• Dorothy Lynch Salad Dressing – Tasty Toppings Inc., Duncan
• Valentino’s Authentic Pizza Sauce – Valentino’s of America, Lincoln

“Manufacturing is a pillar of Nebraska’s economy, and this competition is a chance to celebrate the companies and people making a difference every day,” said Todd Bingham, NE Chamber President.  “These 16 products represent just a fraction of the innovation happening across our state, and we’re excited to showcase them as we discover the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska.”

The tournament will help launch NE Manufacturing Month this October. The 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska will be announced October 6 at the NE Chamber’s Manufacturing Summit in La Vista, where finalists will also be invited to display their products. Registration is open to the public and available here.

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LINCOLN, Nebraska — August 6, 2025 -- The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry has released its 2025 Results for Business report, a comprehensive recap of the most recent legislative session and the impact of the Chamber’s advocacy at the Capitol.
 
The report details 16 priority bills the NE Chamber engaged on last session.  Nine of those bills were included in a scorecard at the end of the report, showing each senator’s alignment with the NE Chamber’s priorities.
 
NE Chamber President & CEO Todd Bingham opened the report with an introductory letter to members since joining the NE Chamber in May. He reflects on his 30+ year career at the intersection of policy and business, with reference to how Utah prioritized growth the last two decades and now has the results to show for it.
 
Hunter Traynor, NE Chamber EVP of Legislation and Policy, also emphasized how sustained economic growth is Nebraska’s best strategy for shared prosperity and that this past legislative session, the NE Chamber supported policies focused on talent, innovation and investment.  From Hunter’s letter: "[A]t its core, growth is the best people policy: it creates jobs, expands opportunity and wages, and gives communities momentum to thrive."
 
The Results for Business report is published annually and distributed to Chamber members, elected officials and stakeholders across Nebraska.
 
The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce is the largest, statewide business association, proudly serving as the voice of Nebraska’s business community since 1912. The organization promotes and protects Nebraska’s free enterprise system by ensuring a competitive business climate, economic growth and greater prosperity for all Nebraskans. Learn more at nechamber.com.

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​Lincoln, NE – August 5, 2025 – Tech Nebraska today announced the appointment of Emily Allen as its new Executive Director. A longtime, globally recognized advocate, Allen brings expertise in policy, brand strategy, and tech-driven growth.
 
“My vision for Tech Nebraska is to be a catalyst for a more innovative, accessible, and collaborative future,” stated Allen. “One where technology is a force for good that elevates our entire state and positions Nebraska as a global leader.”
 
Allen steps into the role at a pivotal moment for Nebraska’s tech economy. Omaha ranks 7th among North America’s emerging tech talent markets, according to CBRE’s Scoring Tech Talent 2024 report, with 15 percent tech employment growth since 2020. With momentum building across the state, her leadership arrives at an ideal inflection point for Tech Nebraska’s next chapter.
 
With more than a decade of experience of global leadership across public policy, branding, strategic partnerships, communications, and cross-sector collaboration, Allen brings an impressive track record to the role. A licensed attorney and Nebraska native, she led advocacy and thought leadership at Honor Technology (the acquiring company of Home Instead), elevating the brand across 13 markets and forging key relationships with policymakers and industry leaders.
 
Founded in 2023 in partnership with the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Tech Nebraska works to grow the state’s innovation economy through public policy, workforce development, and statewide convening.
 
“I am excited to welcome Emily as the new Executive Director of Tech Nebraska,” said Todd Bingham, President and CEO of the NE Chamber. “Emily brings strong leadership, vision, and a collaborative spirit, which will be vital as we work together to accelerate Nebraska’s tech and innovation ecosystem.”
 
Allen’s approach aligns with Tech Nebraska’s mission to convene multiple sectors, including industry, government, and education, advocate for pro-growth policies, and build a diverse, future-ready workforce. She believes Nebraska’s greatest strength is its people and that expanding access to opportunity is key to long-term success. By elevating tech as a force for good, she aims to drive innovation, retain talent, and create pathways that strengthen every corner of the state.
 
“I am so thrilled to have Emily lead the Tech Nebraska organization into our next phase of growth and maturity,” stated Chris Dill, Board Chair of Tech Nebraska and Vice President and CIO at Kiewit Technology Group. “Her unique combination of educational and career experiences, strong leadership, passion for innovation, and deep love for Nebraska makes her the perfect leader for the next chapter of our journey.”
 
Allen joins the organization two months ahead of the 2025 Tech Nebraska Summit, where she will welcome hundreds of business, technology, and policy leaders from across the state. More details on this year’s event will be announced soon.
 
For more information on Tech Nebraska and the upcoming Summit, visit technologynebraska.com.

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​LINCOLN, Nebraska — July 15, 2025 — The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance are now accepting nominations for the 2025 Nebraska Manufacturer of the Year award. Nominations will be accepted through August 15.

Following the nomination period, a panel of manufacturing and business leaders from across the state will select the 2025 honoree. The winner will be announced during Manufacturing Month at the NE Chamber’s 2025 Manufacturing Summit on October 6th in La Vista. Registration for the Manufacturing Summit, hosted in partnership with RSM US LLP, is open to the public and can be found here.

“The Nebraska Manufacturer of the Year award celebrates a manufacturer whose innovation, efficiency and craftsmanship betters not only its own community, but the entire Nebraska economy,” said NE Chamber President Todd Bingham. “We’re excited to highlight the role homegrown manufacturers play in building a stronger, more competitive Nebraska.”

This is the 18th year of recognizing a Nebraska Manufacturer of the Year. Past winners include Timpte (2024), TMCO (2023) and date all the way back to the inaugural winner in 2008, Reinke Manufacturing. See the full list of winners here.

“Manufacturing is at the heart of Nebraska’s economy, driving innovation, providing quality jobs and fueling growth in communities large and small,” said Michelle Luett, RSM Assurance Partner. “We’re proud to partner with the NE Chamber to recognize a Nebraska company leading the way and impacting the industry.”

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LINCOLN, Nebraska — July 1, 2025 — The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance announced today that nominations are open for the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska competition, presented by Pinnacle Bank.
 
The competition, in its 4th year, will lead into the celebration of National Manufacturing Month in October.  Sixteen products will be chosen from companies across the state and voted on through a bracket-style competition that ultimately crowns one product the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska.
 
“Manufacturing is so much more than meets the eye.  It’s technology, agriculture, energy, and a driving force behind the Nebraska economy,” said NE Chamber President Todd Bingham.  “We’re thrilled to showcase the cool things made right here in Nebraska every day that benefit the lives of Nebraskans and beyond.”
 
Nominations are open through the month of July followed by voting in August.  Voting is open to the public and all Nebraskans are invited to vote for their favorite product to advance it to the next round. The winner of the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska will be announced at the NE Chamber’s 2025 Manufacturing Summit on October 6th in La Vista.  Registration for the Manufacturing Summit is open to the public and can be found here.
 
“Manufacturing drives innovation and growth across countless industries throughout the state.  That’s why we’re excited to partner with the Nebraska Chamber and Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance for the Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska,” said Marc Hock, Pinnacle Bank President.
 
The competition spotlights Nebraska’s dynamic manufacturing industry and brings together students, educators, community leaders and manufacturers to celebrate the 100,000+ Nebraskans working in manufacturing every day.  Past winners include Kawasaki’s Rail Car, Rocket Mobility’s All-Terrain Tracked Wheelchair and Valley Irrigation’s Valley Center Pivot.

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LINCOLN, NE -- Mike Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Executive Vice President of the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance, will step down from his full-time role.
 
“I’m incredibly proud of the organization we’ve built over the past three and a half years — from the strength of our team to the value we provide our members and the momentum we’ve created across our state,” said Johnson. “It has been an honor and a joy to work alongside passionate stakeholders from every corner of Nebraska and across every industry sector. With a young, growing family and after much reflection, I’ve made the decision to focus more time closer to home and on the next phase of my career. I’m excited about the future of the NE Chamber and am pleased to continue supporting the organization in a part-time advisory role as a consultant.”
 
Johnson joined the Nebraska Chamber full-time as Chief Operating Officer in January 2022, where he played a key role in strengthening member engagement, expanding strategic initiatives, and elevating the Manufacturing Alliance. Prior to his tenure at the Chamber, Johnson served in production and executive leadership roles at Anheuser-Busch.
 
“I’ve had the privilege of knowing Mike for four years through the manufacturing world, and it’s been a pleasure to watch him grow both professionally and personally over the years,” said NE Chamber President Todd Bingham.  “Mike’s leadership has left a significant impact on the Nebraska Chamber and he’s helped strengthen the state’s manufacturing sector.  We’re committed to continuing the strong foundation Mike has built here.”
 
The NE Chamber thanks Mike for his leadership and dedication and looks forward to working with him in his continued advisory capacity.

LINCOLN, NE — A new class of Nebraska leaders is ready to take the next step in shaping the future of the state. The NE Chamber Foundation proudly announces the members of Leadership Nebraska Class XVII—a diverse group of professionals selected from across the state to participate in its premier leadership development program.

Leadership Nebraska, presented by Medica, was launched in 2006 with the goal of connecting emerging and established leaders, deepening their understanding of the state’s most pressing issues, and preparing them to make a broader impact in their communities and industries.

Over a seven-month period, participants will take part in immersive sessions covering a wide range of topics including workforce and education, economic development, agriculture, health care, natural resources, and government policy. The program combines hands-on learning with meaningful dialogue, giving participants a deeper understanding of Nebraska and the tools to lead with purpose.

“This year’s class reflects the strength, diversity, and dedication of Nebraska’s leaders,” said Todd Bingham, President of the NE Chamber. “These individuals are already making a difference in their communities, and Leadership Nebraska will amplify their ability to influence real change across the state. It’s exciting to see how this experience will shape their journeys and the impact they’ll have.”

Upon completing the program, participants will join an alumni network of more than 400 leaders committed to continued growth, collaboration, and service to Nebraska.

Following are the Nebraskans selected to participate in Leadership Nebraska’s Class XVII, along with the class member’s employer.

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Tech Nebraska today announced that Laurel Oetken, who has served as the organization’s Executive Director since its founding in 2023, will be stepping down on April 18th to pursue a new opportunity in Nebraska’s growing technology ecosystem.  Over the past two years, Laurel successfully led the effort to build and transform Tech Nebraska from a bold idea into an effective and important statewide voice for technology.  “Laurel has done amazing work positioning Tech Nebraska to be an impactful trade association for all technologists and tech-focused companies across the state of Nebraska and has been an effective advocate on technology topics that will influence state policy in the coming years,” said Chris Dill, CIO at Kiewit Corporation and Tech Nebraska Executive Committee Chair.
 
With Laurel’s departure, Tech Nebraska is opening a search today seeking a new Executive Director.  This is a unique opportunity to step into a well-established and successful organization at a pivotal moment in the state’s technological evolution.
 
The organization is well-funded, has an established advisory and governance structure, and is expanding its statewide membership.  As a separate trade association affiliated with the NE Chamber, Tech Nebraska is also able to leverage the NE Chamber’s resources and statewide footprint in its networking events and advocacy efforts.  In the past year, Tech Nebraska launched a highly successful Annual Tech Nebraska Summit, testified on several tech-forward bills at the Nebraska legislature, and built strong partnerships with leaders across business, government, and education, all while shaping key policy conversations that will define Nebraska’s economic future.
 
The Executive Director position is a premier leadership role in the tech ecosystem in the state.  Tech Nebraska invites visionary, hands-on leaders who are passionate about industry advocacy and building a stronger, more inclusive, tech ecosystem in the state of Nebraska to apply.  To express interest in the Executive Director role, please apply here, via LinkedIn, or send your cover letter and resume to [email protected]. If you would like additional information, please feel free to make your request to the same email address.
 
Tech Nebraska and the NE Chamber are equal-opportunity employers.  All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

The Nebraska Chamber has officially welcomed Todd Bingham to the NE Chamber team to serve as President and CEO.  In this role, Todd will provide strategic leadership and vision to further the Chamber’s mission of fostering a robust and dynamic business environment.  Bingham will begin in mid-May.
 
“I’m pleased and excited that Todd Bingham will be the new President of the Nebraska Chamber,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone. “His strong connections across the country and the depth of his experience in urban and rural business development make him a great selection to champion the NE Chamber’s efforts and impact on the business climate throughout the state.”
 
“Todd is a wonderful addition to the Nebraska Chamber, bringing backgrounds in public policy and manufacturing, two of the Chamber’s largest endeavors,” said Joel Russell, NE Chamber Board Chair.  “We can’t wait for Todd to get started and make an impact on the statewide economy and business environment.”
 
Before joining the Chamber, Bingham was the President and CEO of the Utah Manufacturers Association, a leading industry organization with a 120-year legacy of advancing Utah’s manufacturing sector. Under his leadership, the association provided critical resources, advocacy, and strategic initiatives to drive growth and prosperity for manufacturers across the state.
 
With over 30 years of experience as a registered lobbyist, Bingham has been a key advocate for business and industry, specializing in governmental and regulatory affairs. He has served on numerous influential boards and councils, including the Governor’s Economic Council, the Utah Employers Council, and the OSHA Advisory Board. Additionally, he has contributed his expertise to the Utah Labor Commission’s Workers’ Compensation Advisory Council, the Unemployment Insurance Advisory Board, and the Rural Economic Development Board.
 
Bingham also served as Chair of the Council of State Manufacturing Associations (COSMA) and is a current member of the Board of Directors for the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), where he plays a pivotal role in shaping policy and advocating for the manufacturing industry at a national level.
 
Prior to the Utah Manufacturers Association, Bingham served as President/CEO for the Utah Mining Association, Regional Director of Associated General Contractors of Utah, and VP of Public Policy for the Utah Farm Bureau Federation.
 
He is the father to three wonderful sons and two incredible grandsons.

Each year, the NE Chamber works with its members to analyze bills introduced throughout the Legislative Session to curate a slate of NE Chamber priority bills.  The focus generally remains the same, favoring bills that address workforce, modernize our tax code and ensure business is affordable and competitive throughout the state and in relation to neighboring states.  These bills further the mission of the NE Chamber and push Nebraska toward greater economic growth.

NE Chamber Policy Briefs capture a breakdown of these bills and can be found here.

“Workforce development and embracing technology enablement of our core industries are at the top of the NE Chamber’s priority list because those are the most vital pieces in keeping Nebraska competitive with the rest of the country,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone.  “These bills have Nebraska’s best economic interests at heart and advance our mission of being the best state to live and operate a business in.”

Nebraska is one of the best places to own, operate and grow a business, but there’s always more work to be done.  In last year’s legislative session, state lawmakers made progress in streamlining regulations and expanding accessibility and flexibility to childcare.  This year, lawmakers have the means to close our statewide workforce gap and ensure Nebraska’s economic climate is appealing to current and future Nebraska business owners.

“Our 2025 priorities, while broad, home in on the needs of our broader membership base while furthering the NE Chamber’s mission,” said Joel Russell, NE Chamber Board Chair.  “These bills promote innovative initiatives, from energy to childcare and many more in between. With workforce development and a modernized tax code at the forefront of our mission, these priority bills are sure to strengthen our state’s economy even further.”