Announcement gives laid-off RV workers new hope

By Ed Ernstes (ernstes@wsbt.com)

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Laid-off Monaco Coach employee Ed Neufledt (right) speaks at a news conference in Wakarusa on Thursday, May 14, 2009. Executives from Electric Motors Corp. and Gulfstream Coach announced the companies’ partnership and plans to make the first light-duty electrical truck. Gov. Mitch Daniels is seated to Neufledt's right. (WSBT photo)

By Beth Boehne

Story Created: May 14, 2009 at 2:49 PM EST

Story Updated: May 20, 2009 at 11:35 AM EST

ELKHART CO. — As you might imagine, the announcement that production of electric vehicles could begin in Elkhart County by the end of this year is great news for thousands of laid-off RV workers in Elkhart County.

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“Boy this is just really a good thing for us,” said Ed Neufledt.

For 32 years, Neufledt worked for Monaco Coach. But for the last eight months, he hasn't been working. The father of seven says the electric motor company's plans are just what the local economy needs.

“I'm still unemployed, a lot of my buddies are unemployed, you know,” he said. “We've kept the faith and we just knew with our strong faith-based community, that something was going to come along, and now today it has.”

News of the partnership between Electric Motors Corp. and Gulfstream Coach also gave hope to many area Wakarusa and Nappanee residents who were laid off at Monaco, or lost their jobs in the RV industry hit time.

“There are many of us that we'd be able to handle jobs and I know with a little training, we could handle it,” said Marty Stahl, who also worked 32 years at Monaco.

“Oh definitely, prayers have been answered, it's a great boost for this area,” said Pete Swathwood, a 17-year employee. “It’s something we need. There are a lot of workers who need jobs. There are a lot of empty buildings.”

“I mean it's not going to be a quick fix, but I think it will be something that will come fairly, you know, it will work its way in,” said Lee Farney, a laid-off RV parts maker. “It will be here to stay.”

“I think this is just the thing Elkhart County needs,” Neufledt added.

You may remember that Ed Neufeldt introduced President Barack Obama when he came to Concord High School in February.

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