Cathy Sutton of Tom Manning & Associates and John Hawkins of BAL RV Products received the 2026 RV Aftermarket Lifetime Achievement Award during the RV Aftermarket Conference with the honor recognizing their long-term contributions to the RV aftermarket.
The award is presented annually to individuals whose careers have advanced the industry through service, product innovation, education or philanthropy.
This year marked the first time the Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to two recipients.
According to a News and Insights report of RVIA, Hawkins was recognized for his leadership within the RV Industry Association’s Aftermarket Committee and his involvement in Dealer Partnerships and the Awards Committee.
He also has helped shape the RV Aftermarket Conference and has served as a co-host for the Aftermarket Awards for more than seven years.
Hawkins also was instrumental in launching the Supplier Showcase following the National RV Trade Show, creating an opportunity for suppliers and dealers to connect.
He also supported consumer education efforts and spent time training technicians and RV owners, according to the award presentation.
Sutton was recognized for more than 40 years of work in the RV aftermarket, including helping suppliers bring products to market and supporting industry education and collaboration. Her work has included participation on the Aftermarket Conference Task Force and support for technician education.
The award presentation cited Sutton’s work across the supplier, distributor and manufacturer’s representative communities, as well as her reputation for integrity and fairness.
Her influence, according to the presentation, extends to the development of products and the professionals involved in bringing them to market.
Both recipients were recognized for a sustained commitment to serving the industry and supporting other professionals. The award criteria also emphasize moral and ethical conduct and contributions that have a lasting effect on the RV aftermarket.
The RV Aftermarket Conference also announced the 2026 Supplier of the Year and 2026 RV Aftermarket Product of the Year awards.