Indiana's Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman went to China and signed agreements with three businesses there that could spur job growth in three Indiana locations, including Elkhart.
Businesses all over the world have their eyes on Elkhart and Elkhart County for a number of reasons.
"That reason is simply access to markets," said Dave Ogle, director of Business Retention and Expansion with the Economic Development Corporation of Elkhart County.
"We, in Elkhart County, are blessed with the strength of the auto market as well as the logistics," said Dorinda Heiden-Guss with the EDC of Elkhart County.
The first steps have been taken to increase opportunities here and all over Indiana.
It could lead to 240 jobs statewide, 150 in Elkhart alone.
"It's wonderful news if it comes to fruition," said Heiden-Guss.
IF is the keyword here.
Are 150 new jobs on their way to Sutongs facility here in Elkhart? WSBT News tried to talk to the owner. Workers told us the owner is in China, but as far as they know, nothing is concrete. Nothing is final.
Skillman went to China and signed agreements with three Chinese businesses. Here's what we know about the "Memorandum of Understanding" and what it means for Elkhart:
According to the Lieutenant Governor's Office, Jiaxing Stone Wheels plans to partner with Sutong China Tire Resource for a wheel and brake drum manufacturing facility.
Sutong is a wheel and tire assembler with headquarters based in Houston, Texas.
"It makes a great deal of sense to have this particular product line here in Elkhart County," said Heiden-Guss.
Called a starting point, no one from Skillman's office could give WSBT a timeline or share hen we could expect an official announcement.
