After a public voting process that garnered over 200,000 votes, the X-59 experimental jet, manufactured by Lockheed Martin in Palmdale, has been named the winner of the 2025 “Coolest Thing Made in California” contest. The annual competition is organized by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) to showcase innovation and craftsmanship within the state.
The X-59 was developed at Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works facility. The aircraft is designed to reduce sonic booms to a quieter “thump,” aiming to make supersonic flight less disruptive. This project required years of engineering collaboration and advanced design.
“We’re honored that Californians chose the X-59 as the Coolest Thing Made in California,” said Patrick LeBeau, X-59 Program Manager. “This recognition celebrates the groundbreaking technology and precision engineering behind the X-59, and the incredible dedication of our Palmdale team and partners. We thank CMTA and everyone who voted for helping shine a spotlight on California’s world-class manufacturing.”
Senator Roger Niello presented the award to representatives from Lockheed Martin at an event held on October 22, 2025, at The Citizen Hotel in Sacramento.
“This year’s winner showcases the best of California manufacturing, with groundbreaking innovation, world-class talent, and an unshakable commitment to pushing boundaries,” said Lance Hastings, CMTA’s President & CEO. “The aerospace industry is a cornerstone of our state’s economy. Companies like Lockheed Martin remind us that the future of flight, and so much more, is being built here in California. This contest celebrates the people and products that keep our state making, creating, and leading.”
The contest highlights achievements across various sectors in California’s manufacturing industry. In 2025, it attracted over 160 nominations and saw hundreds of thousands of votes from residents statewide.
CMTA represents manufacturers throughout California. The organization advocates for pro-growth policies before state lawmakers and regulatory agencies. Manufacturing contributes $300 billion annually to California’s economy—about 10 percent of total output—and employs approximately 1.3 million people with wages higher than those paid by other non-farm employers.
For interview requests or further information about this year’s contest or CMTA initiatives, contact Rebecca Elliott at relliott@cmta.net.
