John Deere Launches ‘Building America’ Excavator Contest

At this year’s CONEXPO-CON/AGG trade show, equipment giant John Deere announced the launch of its ‘Building America’ excavator contest.

The contest “celebrates the U.S. construction industry” in observance of the country’s 250th anniversary in 2026, John Deere officials say. As part of the contest, the firm is inviting participants to showcase their business with a short video showcasing their current use of construction equipment on a project.

“Every day across the country, contractors and operators are doing the hard, sometimes
unseen work that keeps our communities connected and moving forward,” says Amy Asselin,
global marketing manager of excavators for John Deere. “The Building America Excavator
Contest is our way of recognizing their contributions, craftsmanship and noteworthy impact
on America.

“Their stories and pride deserve to be celebrated, and we’re beyond excited to
honor a deserving participant with one of our new generation midsize excavator models.”

Eligible participants must be age 18 and older and located in the U.S. at the time of entry submission. Participants must also own or be employed by a “qualifying business” and own at least one excavator of any brand, John Deere representatives say.

“In the video, tell us about your business, its history, and how it uses construction equipment to build America today,” the company says. “Then, let us know how your business will use a new generation mid-size excavator to build America tomorrow.”

Contest entries will be accepted from March 3 to April 30, 2026, and John Deere will announce the finalists on July 4, the 250th birthday of the U.S. Public voting will take place from Aug. 17 to Aug. 31, with the winner announced Sept. 8. Winners will receive one of John Deere’s next generation excavators to add to their fleet of equipment.