In an industry-first initiative, General RV Center, in collaboration with the RV Women’s Alliance (RVWA) and the RV Technical Institute (RVTI), is sponsoring an all-female technician training session. The move is aimed at encouraging more women to get involved in the RV industry, a sector traditionally dominated by men.
The weeklong class, scheduled from July 10 – 14 at the RV Technical Institute headquarters in Elkhart, Indiana, will see a dozen women learning about the seven RV systems. These include propane, plumbing, electrical, appliances, generators, body and chassis.
The training will provide the participants with the working knowledge necessary to perform pre-delivery inspections. Upon completion of the course and passing the final exams, the women will earn a good-for-life certification to prepare an RV for customer delivery.
General RV Service and Customer Experience Director Laura Dobbs expressed excitement about the partnership. She noted that while the RV industry needs more certified technicians in general, inspiring women to join the industry allows for a diversified workforce.
Dobbs highlighted that women bring a high level of attention to detail and a new perspective on providing quality service for customers.
The initiative follows the successful first-ever all-female technician class coordinated by the RVWA and the RVTI in 2022. With 72 million Americans planning to take an RV trip over the next year, the demand and opportunity for skilled RV technicians are higher than ever, as per the News & Insights report of the RV Industry Association (RVIA).
Tracy Anglemeyer, RVTI director of recruitment and RVWA board member, pointed out the significant opportunity in attracting more women into the RV technician field.
She emphasized the alignment between the Institute and the Alliance in terms of valuing education and providing the skills for people in the industry to succeed and grow in their careers.
The influence of women in the RV industry extends beyond service, as there has been an uptick in female RV owners in recent years. According to a survey from the RV Industry Association, the percentage of women who said they own an RV jumped from 11% in 2021 to 17% in 2022 and 24% in 2023.
RVWA believes that having female advisors within the technician field can make new RV owners feel more at ease, making their service experience more comfortable and less intimidating.
Susan Carpenter, president of the RV Women’s Alliance, expressed gratitude for the support from General RV Center for the all-women RV technician class. She noted that the initiative marks a significant stride towards inclusivity and growth in the industry.
By working together, they are able to cultivate a diverse and skilled workforce that is better prepared to meet the service needs of today’s RVers.
The all-female technician training session sponsored by General RV Center, in partnership with the RV Women’s Alliance and the RV Technical Institute, is a significant step towards diversifying the RV industry. It not only provides women with the skills and certification to succeed in the industry but also helps to meet the growing demand for skilled technicians.
Featured image from RV Industry Association.
