Meet the Owners – Hoosier Custom Cruiser RV

Meet the Owners: Earl Robbins

Aimee — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 21:52:19 +0000

Meet Earl Robbins: Sales, Owner, and Steady Hand at Hoosier Custom Cruiser

In this chapter of our Meet the Owners series, we turn the spotlight on Earl Robbins—a man whose humility, steady leadership, and decades of hands-on experience have helped shape Hoosier Custom Cruiser into the company it is today.

With over 30 years in the RV industry and a deep understanding of what makes a coach road-ready and reliable, Earl brings more than just technical know-how to the table—he brings heart.

Grounded in Experience

Earl's journey began like many in the RV world: on the floor, in the trenches, solving real problems in real time. Over the years, he became a trusted expert in chassis prep, wiring, and systems—earning a reputation for clean work, clean builds, and quiet leadership.

But Earl wasn’t just working a job—he was paying attention. “When you do this long enough,” he explains, “you start seeing all the ways it can be done better.”

Choosing Pride Over Profit

For Earl, becoming a co-owner at Hoosier Custom Cruiser wasn’t about chasing bigger paychecks—it was about building a better product.

“We’re not in this to be millionaires… we’re in this to build a coach we’re proud of.”

That simple philosophy has become one of the company’s guiding principles. Because Hoosier is employee-owned, there are no layers of management or investor pressure—just experienced builders making real decisions based on what’s best for the coach and the customer.

Doing It Right

Earl is quick to point out the tangible results of this independence. “We’ve got a 3-inch roof with AC ductwork. That’s not standard. That’s better cooling, better heating, and no extra height added to the coach.”

He’s just as proud of the 50-gallon grey water tank—a standout feature that speaks directly to how well Hoosier understands the needs of travelers. “We’ve been out there. We know what people are trying to do with these.”

A Team That’s Been Around the Block

One of the strengths of Hoosier Custom Cruiser is that no one here is new to the game. The least experienced owner-employee has been in the RV industry since 2007. That’s 18+ years of doing the work, fixing what breaks, and figuring out how to make it last longer.

“We know what can and can’t be done,” Earl says, with the confidence of someone who’s earned that knowledge the hard way.

And because there’s no assembly line, every coach gets built with intention—and, often, customization that’s just not possible in a mass-production model.

A Builder You Can Trust

Ask any Hoosier owner and they’ll tell you—Earl’s work holds up.

“We spent a full year going job to job across the country and not one issue.” – S.L.
“Thank you for building quality into our coach.” – B.H.
“...none of you forgot about me after you got my check. That is greatly appreciated.” – D.H.

These aren’t just one-time customers. They’re travelers whose homes-on-wheels have held up to the miles, the seasons, and the unexpected.

Looking Ahead

When asked what he sees for the future, Earl’s answer is steady and simple: “We’ll keep doing what we’re doing. Keep getting better. Keep building coaches that make people proud.”

His story is one of consistency, craftsmanship, and quiet excellence. And if you’ve ever stepped inside a Hoosier coach—you’ve seen his fingerprints all over it.

Ready to Learn More?

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Meet the Owners: Bob Butler

Aimee — Sun, 27 Oct 2024 17:45:15 +0000

Meet Bob Butler: Master Craftsman and Visionary at Hoosier Custom Cruiser

In the latest installment of our "Meet the Owners" series, we spotlight Bob Butler, a foundational pillar at Hoosier Custom Cruiser. With over four decades in the RV industry, Bob’s journey from skilled worker to company co-owner embodies the spirit of leadership and innovation that drives our company forward.

A Seasoned Expert with a Vision

Bob Butler has dedicated 40 years to mastering RV production and final finish, bringing an unparalleled depth of knowledge to Hoosier Custom Cruiser. As the foreman and a go-to problem solver, Bob's role is crucial in maintaining the high standards of craftsmanship that our custom coaches are known for.

Embracing Entrepreneurship

Faced with the choice to continue a comfortable career with established RV manufacturers, Bob chose a path less traveled. "I've always worked for someone else, so I figured, well, hell, why not do it for myself?" This decision was driven by a desire for greater control over the products and the process, allowing for the creation of superior RVs without compromise.

Building with Freedom

At Hoosier Custom Cruiser, Bob enjoys the freedom to make decisions about production without the constraints of upper management. "We've got a lot more control right now. We can decide what we want to build, how many we want to build," Bob explains. This autonomy has led to innovative designs and bespoke solutions that truly meet the needs of their customers.

Reflecting on Challenges and Triumphs

Despite challenges like COVID, chassis shortages, and supply chain issues, Bob and the team have continuously improved their processes and products. The recent build of a coach from stretched to nearly finished in just a couple of weeks—considerably less time than the industry standard—underscores their efficiency and dedication.

Looking Forward

Bob expresses satisfaction with his decision to co-found Hoosier Custom Cruiser, albeit wishing it had come sooner. His story is not just about building RVs; it's about shaping a business that reflects the values and visions of its founders.

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Meet the Owners: Matt Sims

Aimee — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 17:33:04 +0000

At Hoosier Custom Cruiser, we take pride in the expertise and dedication of our team. Today, we're thrilled to spotlight Matt Sims, co-owner and a veteran craftsman whose hands have shaped the very foundation of our custom RVs for over four decades.

Master Plumber and Beyond

Matt Sims started his career in the RV industry primarily as a plumber, expertly handling the intricacies of RV water systems. Over the years, his role has evolved to encompass nearly every aspect of RV construction, though his current focus remains on the innovative plumbing solutions that Hoosier Custom Cruiser is known for.

Innovating for Comfort and Safety

A testament to his expertise is the advanced insulation and heating solutions Matt has developed for the holding tanks in our RVs. "We have two 25-gallon gray water holding tanks and a 27-gallon black holding tank, each equipped with a heat strip similar to a waterbed heater," explains Matt. This setup ensures that the tanks remain functional even in freezing conditions, highlighting his commitment to customer comfort and vehicle reliability.

A Career of Dedication

With approximately 43 years in the business, Matt's dedication to quality and innovation has never wavered. His extensive experience not only enriches our team but also instills a level of craftsmanship that is hard to find elsewhere.

Recognizing a True Craftsman

At Hoosier Custom Cruiser, we are not just colleagues; we are family. We celebrate the hard work and achievements of our team members like Matt, who have dedicated their careers to building the best RVs on the road. Matt's story is one of passion, expertise, and a deep commitment to excellence. As we continue to innovate and grow, his influence remains a cornerstone of our success.

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Meet the Owners: Ed LaBeau

Aimee — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 21:38:38 +0000

Meet Ed LaBeau: Master Electrician and Versatile Craftsman at Hoosier Custom Cruiser

Welcome back to our "Meet the Owners" series. Today, I'm excited to introduce you to Ed LaBeau, a key figure at Hoosier Custom Cruiser and our chief electrician. Ed's passion for his craft and his role in our team are as essential as the complex wiring he designs and installs in each coach we build.

A Career Built on Passion and Precision

Ed brings over four decades of experience to his work at Hoosier Custom Cruiser. His career spans across various domains, from wiring European and Canadian coaches, which Ed refers to as trucks, to mastering the electrical complexities of custom RVs. "I just like wiring. I enjoy it. I like the challenge of it," Ed shares, his enthusiasm for tackling the unique electrical demands of each coach palpable in his voice.

Not Just Wiring—A Puzzle to Solve

For Ed, each coach is a puzzle waiting to be solved. This perspective not only fuels his daily tasks but also aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver non-cookie-cutter solutions to our clients. "Everybody wants different stuff, and how to bring it together... that's what I find very challenging and enjoyable about my job," explains Ed.

Beyond the Wires

Ed's role at Hoosier extends beyond the electrical work. His involvement with customer interactions and vendor communications marks a significant evolution from his earlier days in production. Getting to meet and talk directly with customers and suppliers has added a rewarding dimension to his career, offering him opportunities to influence the final product more significantly than ever before.

Building More Than Coaches

Reflecting on his earlier aspirations to start his own company, Ed expresses satisfaction with his decision to join forces at Hoosier Custom Cruiser instead. "I'm very happy with where we're heading," he says. For Ed, it's not about building a high volume of units but about ensuring each coach is a testament to quality and craftsmanship.

Looking to the Future

As Hoosier Custom Cruiser prepares to move into a new facility, Ed is optimistic about the future. Despite the challenges of starting during the COVID-19 pandemic and facing industry-wide shortages, he sees a bright horizon for the company. "It's looking really good. I like where our future lies," Ed concludes, reflecting the collective spirit of resilience and commitment that defines our team.

Thank you, Ed, for sharing your story and for your unwavering dedication to excellence. Here at Hoosier Custom Cruiser, we're not just building RVs—we're crafting the dreams of our clients, with Ed LaBeau playing a crucial role in turning those dreams into reality.

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Meet the Owners: Adam Dunker

Aimee — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 21:05:17 +0000

Meet Adam Dunker: Co-Owner and Flexible Craftsman at Hoosier Custom Cruiser RV

In the bustling world of RV manufacturing, it’s not every day you meet a young owner who can truly do it all. Meet Adam Dunker, a dynamic co-owner of Hoosier Custom Cruiser, whose hands-on expertise and dedication are shaping the future of custom RVs.

A Passion Ignited Early

Adam’s journey in the RV industry began fresh out of school in 2007, when he started his career in welding. His skills and passion for the craft quickly saw him taking on multiple roles within the industry. "I started welding in the RV industry," Adam recalls with a smile, acknowledging the unusual path that led him to where he is today.

A Versatile Contributor

At Hoosier Custom Cruiser, Adam's role goes beyond his title as owner. He’s deeply involved in the nuts and bolts of RV manufacturing, quite literally. From chassis prep to final finishes, Adam is hands-on in ensuring that every RV that rolls out is up to the mark. “I do welding, chassis prep, final finish—whatever needs done,” Adam explains. His commitment ensures that every process meets the highest standards of quality and efficiency.

More Than Just Metal

While Adam steers clear of plumbing and electrical work, his expertise encompasses nearly every other aspect of RV construction. Today, he's hands-on with welding and grinding on the chassis, showcasing the dedication and skill that have earned him a co-owner spot despite his relatively young age in such a complex industry.

The Spirit of Hoosier Custom Cruiser

Adam embodies the spirit of Hoosier Custom Cruiser: a dedication to craftsmanship, a willingness to get his hands dirty, and a drive to ensure that every RV is built with the utmost care and expertise. His story is not just about welding metal; it's about crafting dreams and building adventures for every customer who chooses Hoosier Custom Cruiser.

Join us in celebrating Adam Dunker, a young visionary whose passion and hard work continue to drive Hoosier Custom Cruiser RV forward. Stay tuned for more stories from our team as we continue to explore the roads less traveled, with Adam helping to steer the way.

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Meet the Owners: Carol Sims

Aimee — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 00:08:21 +0000

Meet Carol Sims: The Heartbeat of Hoosier Custom Cruiser

At Hoosier Custom Cruiser RV, every team member plays a pivotal role, but few embody the spirit of our operations as wholly as Carol Sims. Serving as our Comptroller, Office Manager, and Purchasing Agent, Carol is a cornerstone of our daily operations. And oh yeah! She’s also one of our owners!

A Day in the Life of Carol

Carol’s day-to-day responsibilities are as vast as the open road our customers travel. From managing financial records and overseeing office operations to handling all our parts ordering, she ensures that the gears of Hoosier Custom Cruiser turn smoothly. Carol's expertise isn't just in keeping the books; it's in knowing every nut and bolt that goes into our custom coaches.

Jack-of-All-Trades

In a company that prides itself on customization and quality, Carol’s role is crucial. She doesn’t just order parts; she maintains a meticulous inventory that ensures each custom coach is equipped precisely to customer specifications. "Sometimes she’ll tell me exactly how many parts are in each coach because it's a lot," co-owner Earl Robbins shares with a laugh. Her detailed knowledge and organizational skills make her an indispensable part of the Hoosier team.

More Than Just a Job

For Carol, working at Hoosier Custom Cruiser is more than a job—it's a commitment to excellence and a dedication to the community of RV enthusiasts. She takes pride in knowing that her contributions help bring the dreams of adventurers to life, providing them with reliable, high-quality RVs that are built to last.

Join Us in Celebrating Carol

We celebrate Carol not only for her multi-faceted skills but also for her passion and dedication, which resonate through every aspect of her work. Next time you marvel at the seamless integration of custom features in a Hoosier RV, remember that Carol Sims is one of the key figures making that possible.
Carol does just about everything here as far as paperwork and more—she's truly the heartbeat of Hoosier Custom Cruiser.

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