Ranger Distribution Inc. is continuing to expand its product portfolio and strengthen its role in the recreational vehicle supply chain as the company pursues new markets and product innovation under the leadership of Senior Vice President Byron Chartier.
Based in Elkhart, Indiana, Ranger Distribution specializes in the distribution of wire, electrical, plumbing, and building products used in the manufacture of RVs. In his current role, Chartier oversees the company’s core operations while supporting strategic initiatives aimed at expanding the business and introducing new product lines.
“I help our team with any needs they might have from the day-to-day operations as we broaden our business into new markets and product lines,” he explains in a News & Insights report by RVIA.
Chartier said the company’s product development efforts are centered on both improving existing offerings and identifying new opportunities for manufacturers.
“First, we focus on continuous improvement of our core products, which entails finding ways to make them better for our OEM customers and ultimately the end user,” he says. “Additionally, we focus on finding new product lines for Ranger Distribution. We’re always looking for potential new products to bring into the market in the industry. We like to help push innovation.”
Originally from northern Michigan, Chartier earned an engineering degree from Michigan State University before relocating to Elkhart in 2003 to begin his career in the RV industry. He joined Lippert Components, where he advanced to the position of Vice President of Quality before joining Ranger Distribution in 2022.
“In 2003, I moved to Elkhart, IN, and joined the RV industry,” he explains. “I rose through Lippert Components to the role of Vice President of Quality. Then, in 2022, I had the opportunity to join Ranger Distribution, and I was excited to jump on board here.”
Reflecting on his professional experience, Chartier said much of his career has focused on developing systems and leadership structures that support long-term organizational growth.
“Most of my career path has been rooted in creating roles and processes that address gaps in the company for new positions, with the expectation that successors will build upon that foundation,” he recalls.
Chartier also credited the RV industry with providing opportunities for his family.
“I’ve always appreciated my career and the great mentors that helped me grow personally and professionally in the RV industry, and what it’s done for myself and my family,” he says.
Looking ahead, Ranger Distribution plans to continue expanding its offerings while supporting manufacturers, suppliers, and customers throughout the RV sector.
“Ranger Distribution is continually focused on expanding its portfolio into more product areas, while helping our suppliers, team members, and customers succeed,” Chartier states, adding: “We’re always looking for continued innovation and change. The goal is, whether it’s a process or a product, to make it better. That’s one of the things I enjoy about Ranger: the passion to provide great products with incomparable customer service.”
For RV manufacturers, campground developers, park operators, and other outdoor hospitality businesses, continued innovation among component suppliers can have downstream benefits beyond the production floor.
Improvements in electrical, plumbing, and building systems can contribute to greater reliability, simplified maintenance, enhanced safety, and better guest experiences in RVs and park model accommodations.
As consumer expectations evolve, collaboration between suppliers and manufacturers remains an important factor in delivering products that meet changing market demands.
In addition to his corporate responsibilities, Chartier remains active in community organizations. He noted that Ranger Distribution supports several charitable initiatives in the Elkhart area, while his own philanthropic efforts have focused on organizations serving children and young adults.
“Ranger Distribution has several causes that it works with to support our community,” he explains.
“Child & Parent Services, Cultivate, and Bashor Children’s Home are nonprofits located in Elkhart, IN, that I have been involved with.”
Chartier also continues to serve in multiple leadership and advisory roles with the RV Industry Association, where he has participated since 2012.
Over approximately 15 years, he has contributed to several technical subcommittees, including Electrical, Regulatory and Safety Compliance, Fire and Life Safety, Heating, RV-C, and Vehicular Components. In March, he became Chair of the Plumbing Technical Subcommittee and also serves on the Standards Steering Committee.
“I see a strong need for the RV Industry Association and how it serves the industry by promoting safety for the end users,” he notes. “As RVs continue to evolve, we need to make sure the committees and the work they do evolve as well to meet the technology and innovation demands.”
“For about 15 years, I’ve been part of the technical subcommittees,” he says. “I’m a member of the Electrical, Regulatory and Safety Compliance, and Fire and Life Safety subcommittees. I’m also involved with Heating, RV-C, and Vehicular Components’ subcommittees, and I became Chair of the Plumbing technical subcommittee in March. I’m also a member of the Standards Steering Committee.”
“I’ve been fortunate to be involved with the RV Industry Association in some way, shape, or form since 2012, and I look forward to continuing that in the future,” Chartier concludes.