IHT Group is thrilled to announce that its innovative IHT Cooling Pads have been honored with a prestigious 2025 AE50 Award, presented by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) and Resource magazine. This marks the second major recognition for the IHT Cooling Pads this year, following their victory in the New Product Tour at the World Pork Expo last June.
The IHT Cooling Pads were designed in collaboration with Purdue University and patented by IHT, combining innovative academic research with industry expertise. The pads were brought to life through the invaluable contributions of Dr. Robert Stwalley, a renowned professor of agricultural engineering at Purdue, and Dr. Allan Schinckel, a leader in swine research and nutrition.
Graduate students Francisco Cabezon and Tyler Field also played critical roles in developing and evaluating this innovative technology, conducting extensive research to ensure its effectiveness and practicality in commercial farming operations.
The pads are specifically engineered to reduce heat stress in sows and boars, a critical challenge faced by farmers in regions with high temperatures.
“We are honored to receive an AE50 Award for the IHT Cooling Pads, which reflect our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the future of agriculture,” said Chris Grant, President of IHT Group. “This recognition underscores the value of our technology in advancing livestock production systems and supporting producers worldwide.”
The AE50 Awards highlights the most impactful innovations that push the boundaries of agricultural engineering, spanning equipment, systems, and software. Products are evaluated by an expert panel based on their innovation, engineering advancements, and market impact.
IHT Cooling Pads and other winners will be celebrated during ASABE’s 2025 Agricultural Equipment Technology Conference, held February 9–12 in Louisville, Kentucky, and featured in the January/February issue of Resource. Additionally, AE50 winners are eligible for the Davidson Prize, recognizing the top three products for their extraordinary innovation and impact on agriculture.
This award reinforces IHT Group’s position as a leader in animal welfare solutions and sustainable agricultural technologies. As the global swine industry faces increasing challenges from climate change and extreme temperatures, the IHT Cooling Pads represent a vital solution for enhancing animal welfare and maximizing productivity.
For more information about the IHT Group’s innovations, please visit www.ihtgroup.com.
