Not long ago The Montana Chamber of Commerce asked the public to submit nominations for “The Coolest Thing Made in Montana.”  The contest was to celebrate and promote the innovation, craftsmanship, and economic impactof Montana’s thriving manufacturing industry.

The Chamber has announced the winners in two categories – – one representing small business and another for larger businesses.

After three rounds of voting and over 15,000 votes cast the winners are Rattlesnake Cable Company and Nomad Global Communications Systems (GCS).

More than 60 Montana-based companies were nominated for the competition, showcasing a wide range of locally-made products, from high-tech innovations to handcrafted goods. The contest, open to the public for voting, highlights the rol manufacturing plays in Montana’s economy, which according to the 2023 Montana

Manufacturing Report by the Bureau of Business and Economic Research, supported 22,700 jobs and contributed $3.3 billion to the state’s economic growth.

Small Business Winner: Missoula-based Rattlesnake Cable Company with four full-time employees, claimed victory in the small business category. Specializing in high-quality, custom hand-made guitar cables, Rattlesnake Cable Company is driven by the belief that every musician deserves exceptional equipment paired with equally outstanding customer service. Known for its premium craftsmanship and dedication to serving musicians around the world, the company has become a go-to brand for those seeking reliable and durable stage and studio cables.

“We are thrilled to be recognized as The Coolest Thing Made in Montana’s small business category,” said Hank Donovan, Co-Owner/Co-Founder of Rattlesnake Cable Company. “Our mission is to not only provide the best cables but to build strong relationships with our customers. This award is a testament to the hard work and passion we put into every product.” Large Business Winner: Nomad GCS in Columbia Falls earned the top honor in the large business category. With a workforce of over 300 skilled professionals, the company engineers and manufactures cutting-edge Connected Mobile Operations Centers (CMOCs) for defense, public safety, emergency operations, and telco organizations worldwide. Nomad’s Tactical Command Vehicle (TCV) is a unique concept in the industry, designed with satellite and cellular connectivity, high ground clearance for off-pavement performance, and Nomad Total Command™ (NTC) software for vehicle management and automation. Trusted by federal, state, local, and private sectorcustomers alike, the TCV reflects Montana’s spirit of innovation, ingenuity, and resilience.

“To be named ‘The Coolest Thing Made in Montana’ by a large business is an honor,” Nomad CEO Will Schmautz said. “Our Tactical Command Vehicle, and every customer solution delivered, represents the best of Montana engineering and manufacturing. Knowing that people statewide recognize our work is humbling, and a testament to the efforts of our stellar team for over two decades.”

“Montana consistently ranks as one of the top entrepreneurial states, and the Montana Chamber of Commerce is committed to keeping us there, said Todd O’Hair, president & CEO of the Montana Chamber. “The Coolest Thing Made in Montana contest highlights the strength and diversity of our economy. On behalf of the business community, congratulations to our inaugural winners, and thank you for choosing Montana as your place to do business.”