John Deere has named the three finalists in its Building America Contest, recognizing contractors, equipment operators, and construction businesses that are making a difference in communities across the United States.
First introduced at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, the nationwide contest celebrates the people behind construction projects while highlighting how their work is helping build America's future.
The three finalists will now move on to the public voting stage, where one contractor will earn the grand prize: a new-generation John Deere P-Tier Mid-Size Excavator.
Recognizing the People Behind America’s Infrastructure
The Building America Contest was created to shine a spotlight on the contractors and operators whose work often takes place behind the scenes.
Rather than focusing solely on completed projects, the contest encourages participants to share how their businesses are helping strengthen local communities and how new equipment could help them take on future opportunities.
Participants submitted short videos describing how they are building America today and explaining how a new John Deere P-Tier Mid-Size Excavator would support the next chapter of their business.
Meet the Three Finalists
After reviewing entries from contractors across the country, John Deere selected three finalists based on their stories, community impact, and vision for the future.
- Caleb Lovett - Wolf Creek Land Co. (Tennessee)
- Nick Long - Chamberlain Backhoe Service (California)
- Patrick Rector - Rector Excavating Inc. (Kentucky)
Each finalist represents a different business and background, but all three share a commitment to serving their communities through construction and excavation work.
The Grand Prize: A New-Generation P-Tier Mid-Size Excavator
The contest winner will receive a new-generation John Deere P-Tier Mid-Size Excavator, giving their business access to equipment designed to handle a wide variety of construction applications.
John Deere's P-Tier mid-size excavators are built for a wide range of construction tasks, including:
- Trenching
- Site preparation
- Utility installation
- Material handling
- Grading
Depending on the model, operators can take advantage of features such as:
- Powerwise™ III hydraulic management
- Available grade management technology
- JDLink™ connectivity
- Compatibility with a wide range of attachments
Together, these capabilities help contractors improve productivity while adapting to changing jobsite demands.
By awarding a machine that supports everyday construction work, the contest extends beyond recognition and provides the winning contractor with equipment that can contribute to future projects.
Vote for Your Favorite Finalist
The Building America Contest highlights the people whose work helps shape communities across the country while recognizing the role modern construction equipment plays in bringing those projects to life.
When public voting opens on August 17, 2026, contractors, customers, and industry supporters will have the opportunity to celebrate the finalists and help decide who takes home a next-generation John Deere P-Tier Mid-Size Excavator. The winner is scheduled to be announced on September 8, 2026.
To learn more about the Building America Contest or explore John Deere's P-Tier mid-size excavator lineup, contact your local John Deere dealer.