The RV Women’s Alliance, a beacon of empowerment and inspiration for women in the RV industry, is gearing up to honor the Trailblazers of the RV Industry at their forthcoming Awards Dinner. This event, part of their Educational Symposium, is a testament to the Alliance’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating women who have made indelible marks in the RV sector.
The Trailblazer Award For Lifetime Achievement is not just any accolade. It stands as a symbol of recognition for women who have not only contributed significantly to the RV industry but have also carved paths for other women to tread on. These are women who have been pioneers, setting standards, breaking barriers, and inspiring countless others.
Susan Carpenter, president of the RV Women’s Alliance, encapsulated the essence of this award when she said, “Throughout my 30-plus year career in the RV industry there have been many women who have paved the way for others to come up behind them. The entire industry is better because of these women.” Such words resonate with the ethos of the award and the women it seeks to honor.
Among the distinguished finalists for this award are four women whose contributions to the RV industry are nothing short of exemplary. Tracy Anglemeyer from the RV Technical Institute, Julie Finer from Winnebago Industries, Lori Stacy from RV Trader, and Donna Warr from Valterra. Each of these women has a story, a journey marked by determination, innovation, and leadership.
Tracy Anglemeyer’s journey in the RV industry is a testament to her trailblazing success and growth. As a founding member of the RV Women’s Alliance Board of Directors, Tracy has been a driving force behind many of the organization’s initiatives, including the mentorship program, which she established.
Julie Finer’s ascent from a file clerk at Winnebago to a leader in the Interior Design Studio showcases her passion for soft goods and her keen eye for trend spotting. Her journey is a beacon of inspiration, proving that with determination and passion, one can achieve great heights.
Lori Stacy’s tenure at Trader Interactive saw her rise from sales manager to CEO. Her vision and leadership have been instrumental in the company’s digital transformation. Moreover, her commitment to championing women in the industry is evident in her efforts to ensure they are represented and have opportunities to lead.
Donna Warr’s story at Valterra is one of dedication and leadership. Starting as a receptionist, she climbed the ranks to become the director of sales. Her leadership style, marked by encouragement and empowerment, has fostered a dedicated team at Valterra.
The RV Women’s Alliance, since its inception in 2019, has been a pillar of support for women in the RV industry. From a modest gathering of 200 attendees at its kickoff event, the Alliance now boasts over 1,400 members. Their mission is clear: to cultivate the next generation of female leaders in the RV industry.
The not-for-profit organization, with its focus on networking, education, community service, and career development activities, is dedicated to supporting women at every stage of their professional journey. Their commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce is evident in their initiatives and activities.
As the RV industry continues to evolve, the role of women in shaping its future cannot be understated. The Trailblazer Award For Lifetime Achievement is a testament to this fact. It serves as a reminder of the incredible contributions of women to the industry and the paths they have paved for future generations.
The awards ceremony, set to take place on October 12 at The Renaissance in Schaumburg, Illinois, promises to be an event of celebration and recognition. It will be a moment to honor the trailblazers, the pioneers, and the women who continue to inspire and lead in the RV industry.
