Maryville’s manufacturing industry is receiving statewide recognition after Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing earned top honors in a Missouri competition.
Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing in Maryville won the Showcase Award at the “Coolest Things Made in Missouri” competition, hosted by the Springfield Business Journal. The award recognized the company’s EVO series engines, produced at the Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corporation, U.S.A. facility in Maryville.
Scott James, director of operations for Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing in Maryville, called the award an honor for the entire team.
“Being named one of the 2026 coolest things made in Missouri, receiving the Showcase Award is an incredible honor for our team,” James said. “The recognition celebrates the innovation and quality that our people bring to work every day and really shines a spotlight on what we’re building right here in Missouri. We’re proud to represent our community and our state.”
James added that the award reflects the work of employees across the facility.“This award really belongs to all of our employees,” he said. “Their craftsmanship and dedication make achievements like this possible.”
The statewide event was held at the Branson Convention Center and featured 16 finalist products selected from more than 70 Missouri-made entries. Attendees voted on their favorite innovations, with the EVO engine taking the top prize.
Local leaders say the recognition highlights Maryville’s growing role in advanced manufacturing across Missouri.