Oshkosh Corp. Laying Off 450 Workers
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A company spokesman says as the wars wind down overseas, orders for Oshkosh Corporation's tactical wheel vehicles are also winding down. Video by nbc26.com
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Oshkosh Corporation announced it will cut 450 jobs. The company says demand is going down for their military-style trucks as American troops pull out of Iraq and Afghanistan.
"The gloominess and overcast just adds to the atmosphere," Oshkosh Corp. worker Terry Erdmann said.
Bad news fell on Oshkosh Corporation, even for Erdmann who dodged a cut.
"It's a little scary because we feel like it's more or less a first wave. There's been rumors and speculation of more to come," Erdmann said.
The layoffs will happen over a three week period, staring January 11th and ending on the 25th.
"These are never easy. These are always very difficult, but we will also help those employees affected by this January layoff helping them make a transition to other employment," Oshkosh Corp. spokesman John Daggett said.
Union leaders declined to talk on camera, but sent us a statement saying--"The union is very concerned not only about the impact to our membership, but also their family members and the surrounding community."
A concern weighing on Erdmann's mind.
"I hope to God everybody gets back in and don't have to worry about it," Erdmann said.
Company and union leaders are also discussing letting some long-term workers retire early. About 3500 employees will be left after the layoffs.
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