The RV Industry Association’s (RVIA) Emerging Leaders Coalition recognized its graduating members and inducted the incoming Class of 2026 during a ceremony at the 2026 Leadership Conference. The event celebrated the contributions of established members and introduced the next generation of industry leaders.
The Emerging Leaders Coalition aims to foster collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity by identifying, developing, and retaining emerging leaders within the RV sector.
It also seeks to elevate diverse perspectives and strengthen professional engagement across the industry.
Graduates of the 2026 class received certificates and pins in recognition of their work within the coalition. Bastian Kastner, director of strategic accounts at Schattdecor Group, served on the Admissions Task Force, helping refine the application and selection process for future classes.
Alissa Reyes, senior vice president of human resources and administration at Thetford, chaired the Admissions Task Force and formalized the Coalition’s admissions process to reflect its standards and values.
Reyes previously shared industry insights through her 2023 Park Perspective presentation on human resources and leadership.
Holly Tope, director of ownership experience at Ember Recreational Vehicles, contributed to the Admissions Task Force with a focus on leadership and community building, ensuring future members are prepared to lead in the industry.
Robert Kowalczyk, director of operations at REV Group, and Alex Walker, vice president of sales and customer service at Blue Ox, were also honored.
Kowalczyk played a key role on the Training & Development Task Force, developing educational tools for workforce development. Walker, a founding member of the same task force, helped create onboarding and training resources to support professional growth within the RV sector.
“The graduating class’s dedication, passion, and vision have built a strong foundation for the future of the Coalition and the industry,” said Kyle Correa-Brady, RVIA assistant general counsel and ELC staff liaison.
Outgoing Chair Ryan Elias, president and general manager of Leisure Travel Vans /Triple E RV, was recognized for his leadership since the Coalition’s inception. Correa-Brady said, “Ryan’s unwavering commitment to mentorship, collaboration, and long-term industry sustainability has empowered emerging leaders to grow, connect, and contribute with purpose.”
The ceremony also introduced the largest incoming class in Coalition history. RVIA Senior Manager of Creative and ELC Staff Liaison Catherine Barsanti noted the record applicant pool and highlighted the group’s alignment with the Coalition’s values of leadership, collaboration, and service.
“The RV Industry Association is excited for the future that the incoming class of 2026 will help shape,” Barsanti said in a News and Insights report of RVIA. “Each individual’s talent, dedication, and innovative spirit will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the RV industry.”
Applications for the Class of 2027 are open, with a submission deadline of Tuesday, June 30. Selected applicants will be notified in the fall.