Collins Aerospace Wins ZOLLER Toolroom of the Year Award at IMTS 2026

ZOLLER Inc. has named Collins Aerospace the winner of the ZOLLER Toolroom of the Year Award, presented at IMTS 2026 in Chicago. The competition recognizes ZOLLER customers who are setting the benchmark for efficiency, precision, and digitalization in their production processes — and this year's winner made its case through automation at scale.

Efficiency Through Integrated Tool Management

Collins Aerospace improved operational efficiency across its Oakville, Ontario facility using a combination of integrated tool management, RFID automation, a TMS tool management systems database, and ZOLLER technology including tool presetters and tool management hardware. The company also created a massive database for automation progression — a foundation for further gains.

ZOLLER Canada's leadership sees the approach as deliberate and ongoing.

"Collins Aerospace is a very forward-looking company, and they want to incorporate more automation. They are constantly working toward achieving their goals," said Chander Bhardwaj, GM Zoller Canada.

Mgr. Ops. Collins Aerospace Landing Systems, and Dan Zeller, Lead Hand CNC Programming and TMC, both of the Oakville operation. Alexander Zoller, President of ZOLLER Inc., joined Bhardwaj in presenting the award.

Runners-Up Round Out the Field

EST Tool & Machine of Kentucky took second place for its significant investments in shop technology to eliminate manual data entry and disconnected systems. Ohio-based Milacron was named third place for its comprehensive tool library.

"A connected tool room is foundational to EST Tool's intelligent approach to manufacturing. ZOLLER's systems keep us organized and efficient, with our finger always on the pulse of the shop floor," said Brad Taylor, Engineering Manager at EST Tool and Machine.

Recognition That Extends Beyond the Trophy

The competition gives manufacturers the opportunity to earn industry recognition and showcase what they are doing differently. The award recognizes how teams and production facilities use technology, organization, and connectivity to help define the modern toolroom — and winners receive an invitation to the exclusive 2027 ZOLLER VIP Technology Tour in Germany.

"The biggest benefit for winners goes beyond the award itself. It opens the door to new opportunities for connection, visibility and thought leadership, including an invitation to the exclusive 2027 ZOLLER VIP Technology Tour in Germany," said Rita Conroy-Martin, Director of Marketing and Customer Experience for ZOLLER Inc.

For shops evaluating tool management investments, the takeaway is practical: the winning entries paired hardware like presetters with RFID automation and database-driven processes, turning toolroom organization into measurable operational efficiency.