The RV Women’s Alliance (RVWA) on October 11 unveiled its annual Educational Symposium, marking the commencement of a pivotal event that seeks to empower, educate, and promote women within the RV industry.
Spanning until October 13, the symposium, held at The Renaissance in Schaumburg, Illinois, is set to be a hub of knowledge, recognition, and networking, bringing together industry professionals and enthusiasts under one roof.
RVWA, since its inception in 2019, has been a steadfast pillar in the RV industry, championing the cause of women and ensuring their voices and contributions are recognized and celebrated.
The alliance, which has grown from a modest gathering of 200 attendees at its kickoff event to now boasting over 1,400 members, is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of female leaders within the RV industry, providing a platform that supports women at every stage of their professional journey.
Sessions, Workshops, & Speakers
This year’s symposium promises a rich agenda, featuring a myriad of sessions, workshops, and activities, each meticulously planned to provide insights, knowledge, and skills to the attendees.
From in-depth discussions on industry trends to workshops aimed at skill enhancement, the event is poised to be a treasure trove of information, offering attendees a comprehensive look into the multifaceted world of RVs.
Diving deeper into the sessions and workshops, attendees can expect a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, covering a wide array of topics pertinent to the RV industry.
From exploring the latest technological advancements to discussing the challenges and opportunities within the industry, the sessions are designed to cater to the diverse interests and needs of the participants.
The symposium will also feature a lineup of distinguished speakers, each a stalwart in their respective fields, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. One speaker to kick off the event is Christine Cashen, one of the few individuals to meet the rigorous induction criteria of the National Speakers Association, CPAE Speaker Hall of Fame.
Karen Zupko, an internationally recognized thought leader and speaker who advises many organizations and teams about the challenges and trends impacting them today, will also lead a workshop on a guided understanding of unique styles based on one’s DISC assessment and how to then utilize it to further enhance their career.
A pair of other sessions – one on conflict resolution and the second discussing emotional intelligence – will be facilitated by Mary Romeo and Heather French of Mary Romeo & Associates.
Utilizing the Thomas-Kilmann approach to conflict resolution, attendees will learn their specific behavior in conflict resolution and the extent to which they project assertiveness and cooperativeness. Attendees will also participate in the emotional intelligence workshop to understand how to use and manage their own emotions to further enhance their careers.
These speakers, through their sessions, will delve into various aspects of the RV industry, sharing their experiences, insights, and foresight, thereby enriching the knowledge pool of the event.
RVWA Awards 2023
A spotlight of the symposium is the Trailblazer Award For Lifetime Achievement, a prestigious accolade that recognizes women who have significantly impacted the RV industry.
Finalists such as Tracy Anglemeyer from the RV Technical Institute, Julie Finer from Winnebago Industries, Lori Stacy from RV Trader, and Donna Warr from Valterra, each embody the spirit of the award, having paved paths and set exemplary standards within the industry.
Delving into the profiles of the award finalists, their journeys are marked by determination, innovation, and leadership.
From Tracy Anglemeyer’s instrumental role in establishing the RVWA’s mentorship program to Julie Finer’s ascent from a file clerk to a leader in the Interior Design Studio at Winnebago, each finalist has a unique and inspiring story, showcasing their indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to the industry.
In addition to individual recognitions, the Champion of Women Award will be presented to a company that exemplifies the mission of RVWA, with finalists including Grand Design RV, Great Canadian RV, Jayco, RV Trader, Storyteller Overland, and Thetford/Norcold.
These companies, through their various initiatives and practices, have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to promoting gender equality and ensuring that women not only have a place but thrive within the RV industry.
The symposium will also host other awards and recognitions, each aimed at acknowledging the contributions and efforts of individuals and companies within the RV industry.
From recognizing innovative practices to honoring consistent excellence, these awards seek to highlight the myriad ways in which entities within the industry are pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks.
Opportunity to Connect With Like-Minded Individuals
Beyond the sessions and awards, the symposium will also provide ample opportunities for networking and collaboration. Attendees will have the chance to interact with industry professionals, exchange ideas, and potentially forge partnerships that could pave the way for future collaborations and innovations within the industry.
As the RV industry continues to evolve, the RVWA Educational Symposium 2023 stands as a testament to the significant role of women in shaping its future.
The event not only recognizes and honors the contributions of women but also seeks to inspire and empower the next generation of female leaders, ensuring that the path paved by the trailblazers continues to be trodden upon by future generations.
The Symposium is set to be a landmark event, encapsulating the essence of recognition, empowerment, and knowledge-sharing. As it unfolds over the next three days, it promises to be a confluence of ideas, expertise, and recognition, celebrating the indomitable spirit and significant contributions of women in the RV industry.