Voting Open for John Deere’s ‘Building America’ Excavator Contest

John Deere has officially opened public voting for its “Building America” Excavator Contest. The company is inviting the public to help select the grand prize winner from three finalists representing construction businesses across the country. You can cast your vote from now until August 31, 2026.

Here’s what you need to know about the contest:

• Finalists: Caleb Lovette of Wolf Creek Land Co. in Tennessee; Nick Long of Chamberlain Backhoe Service in California; and Patrick Rector of Rector Excavating Inc. in Kentucky.
• Public voting: Voting is open August 17 through August 31, 2026. The public can learn more about each finalist and cast their vote at https://johndeereexcavatorcontest.com/vote.
• Grand prize: The winning finalist will receive a new John Deere midsize excavator.
• Winner announcement: The contest winner will be announced Sept. 8, 2026. 

“The three finalists represent the dedication, craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit that drive the construction industry forward every day,” said Amy Asselin global marketing manager, excavators, John Deere. “Their stories demonstrate the meaningful role contractors play in strengthening communities, creating opportunity and building the infrastructure that supports our future. We’re excited to share their stories and invite the public to help choose this year’s winner.” 

The “Building America” Excavator Contest was inspired by America’s 250th Anniversary. It celebrates the contractors and operators helping build and strengthen communities across the United States. According to the press release, contest participants were invited to share how they are building America today and how they would use a new John Deere midsize excavator to help build America for tomorrow.