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A satellite component manufactured in Westbrook that supports GPS, global communications and weather forecasting has been named the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut.
The Lee Co.’s satellite propellant isolation valve won the third-annual competition, which was organized by the Connecticut Business & Industry Association Foundation in partnership with manufacturing consulting firm CONNSTEP.
The winner was announced Thursday during CBIA’s Made in Connecticut: 2026 Manufacturing Summit in Hartford.
The bracket-style competition featured 16 products manufactured in the state, spanning aerospace and defense, medical devices, consumer goods and food products. More than 30,000 votes were cast online during several rounds of public voting.
The Lee Co. defeated Waterbury Button Co.’s Santa Claus brass button in the final round.
CBIA President and CEO Chris DiPentima called the valve a “worthy champion” that exemplifies the state’s “spirit of innovation and excellence.”
Founded in Connecticut in 1948, The Lee Co. is a third-generation manufacturer of miniature precision fluid-control products used in aerospace and defense, automotive, medical technology and other industries.
Its winning product is designed for space and satellite applications. Propellant isolation valves control the flow of propellant within spacecraft propulsion systems.
The Lee Co. President and CEO Marietta Lee said her company’s precision components are used not just in satellites but also in technologies ranging from medical devices to airplanes.
The company also recently announced a major expansion in Connecticut and elsewhere.
The runner-up, Waterbury Button Co., traces its history to 1812 and employs fewer than 40 people, according to company President and owner David Fraser.
Products competing for the title were selected from nominations submitted by the public and business leaders.
The 16 products featured in this year’s competition will also be showcased in a new exhibit at the Connecticut Science Center in Hartford, scheduled to open Nov. 5.
Nominations are already open for the 2027 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut competition.
