After receiving more than 200,000 votes, the X-59 experimental jet built 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 manufacturing across the state.
The X-59 was designed to minimize the noise of a sonic boom, reducing it to a softer “thump.” This project represents years of engineering and collaboration at Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works facility in Palmdale.
“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 during 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 annual contest highlights creativity and skill across various sectors in California’s $394 billion manufacturing industry. In 2025, it received over 160 nominations with hundreds of thousands participating in voting statewide.
CMTA has represented manufacturers before lawmakers since 1918. Manufacturing contributes about $300 billion annually to California’s economy—about ten percent of total output—and employs around 1.3 million people with wages significantly higher than other non-farm jobs.
Representatives from both CMTA and Lockheed Martin are available for interviews regarding this recognition.
