The RV Women’s Alliance (RVWA) Charitable Foundation marked a milestone with the successful completion of its first Female RV Systems class of 2025.
Held in partnership with Fleming College in Peterborough, Ontario, the program brought 15 women together for technical training aimed at addressing the skills gap in the recreational vehicle industry.
The initiative, developed over the course of a year, was led in collaboration with Stacey and Al Robinson of Great Canadian RV. It represents the first female-focused RV systems training program of its kind in Ontario and is part of a larger effort to expand educational access to women across Canada.
This course was built around Fleming College’s newly established two-year accredited program in RV, marine, and small engine service.
Designed to prepare students for careers in these rapidly growing fields, the curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning and industry-standard practices. Interest in the program exceeded expectations, resulting in a waitlist of applicants.
“Reviewing our All-Female Tech Course that we began in 2021, it was apparent that we had the opportunity to bridge the knowledge gaps between the technician side and operations side of the industry,” said Jessica Rider, RVTI master certified technician, owner of Pull Through Sites Mobile RV Repair, and instructor for the RVWACF course.
The course curriculum combined classroom instruction with real-world applications, supported by a new training lab tailored for RV and small engine education at Fleming College.
“It was fantastic to connect and discuss the industry with other like-minded women. Jessica was an excellent teacher, and it was evident that she had vast hands-on experience in the field,” one participant said. “This was a valuable experience and I would encourage anyone who has the opportunity to attend to do so!”
According to a press release, Jessica Prazeres, fixed operations manager at Sicard RV in Smithville, Ontario, praised the program’s structure and instruction. “Jessica’s teaching style was engaging, making even the most complex topics easy to grasp. She created a supportive learning environment that encouraged participation,” Prazeres said.
RVWA is planning future sessions, including a manufacturer-focused training later this month, an evening class in June, and program expansion throughout U.S. dealerships. Discussions are ongoing with OEMs, suppliers, and service centers to broaden access and participation.
“We are excited to offer this revamped training to women of the industry because it allows the RVWACF to not only further our mission of education, but make a serious impact on the gaps between sectors of the industry,” said Rider.
“The women in this first class were excited to understand the fundamentals so they could work in partnership with the technicians in their dealerships to service units faster,” Rider added.