John Deere Names ‘Building America’ Contest Finalists

Equipment firm John Deere has announced its three finalists for its ‘Building America’ contest, with representatives from Kentucky, Tennessee, and California taking the top three spots.

Celebrating contractors, operators, and construction businesses across the U.S., the contest was inspired by America’s 250th anniversary celebration and kicked off during the CONEXPO-CON/AGG trade show earlier this year. Finalists were announced on July 4, once again coinciding with the country’s 250th birthday.

Finalists include Nick Long from Placentia, California-based Chamberlain Backhoe Service, Caleb Lovett from Centerville, Tennessee’s Wolf Creek Land Co., and Patrick Rector from Rector Excavating Inc. in Boone County, Kentucky.

“These finalists represent the dedication, craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit that drive the construction industry forward every day,” says Jon Gilbeck, manager of customer success and excavator marketing for John Deere. “Their stories demonstrate the meaningful role contractors play in strengthening communities, creating opportunities and building the infrastructure that supports our future. We’re excited to share their stories and invite the public to help choose the winner.”

Contest hopefuls were asked to share their stories with John Deere, using video submissions to highlight how they are helping to build America in 2026. Contestants were also asked to explain how they would use a new John Deere P-Tier Mid-size Excavator to build America for tomorrow, company representatives say.

John Deere reviewed “many notable submissions” before making the cut down to the final threee, the company says. Submissions included dedicated industrial titans from across the country, and according to the company, the finalists were selected based on business, community impact, and “a vision for the future.”

Public voting for the Building America contest finals will open on Aug. 17 and close Aug. 31. The grand prize winner will receive a New Generation John Deere P-Tier Mid-Size Excavator of their choice, and the winner will be announced Sept. 8.