Heroes on the Front Line: Debby Hollis

Debby Hollis doesn’t make a big fuss about things. She just acts. That is exactly what she did when she signed on to make Ventec critical care ventilators capable of supporting patients fighting COVID-19.

“I don’t like to get into a panic about things. I just do what is needed,” says the Local 292 member. “There was no question that I would do this. I feel like it is my obligation as a union member and as an employee.”

Hollis, who usually makes circuit boards for airbags, has worked at the GMCH Kokomo plant for nearly 21 years. Her husband, John, is a Kokomo city employee and deemed an essential worker. They have no children at home.

“It’s just the two of us and since my husband has to work anyway, I figured why not volunteer. I’m proud to step up and do my part. It’s my chance to contribute to something,” says Hollis. “There are a lot of people who don’t have a choice. This is their profession. It’s what they signed up for. I understand that and I want to be part of that team to do what I can.”

Keeping busy helps her focus less on the personal impact of the COVID-19 threat.

"I have an elderly mother and she may be one of the people who needs a ventilator. And my 18-year-old grandson just lost his paternal grandfather to it. So, this does have an impact on my family," Hollis says. “Not everyone can contribute in the same way. This is what I can do. In times like these, everyone gives whatever they can and that is good enough.”