The RV Technical Institute (RVTI) in Elkhart, Indiana, has announced the appointment of Mary Smith as the new recruitment administrator, a strategic move designed to strengthen their mission of providing world-class training for RV maintenance and repair.
The institute is committed to enhancing the RV consumer experience and reducing repair event cycle times by addressing the critical shortage of trained RV technicians.
Mary Smith brings a comprehensive array of skills to her new role, developed over a successful career spanning various sectors.
With a background predominantly in sales, including significant roles as a sales manager in the funeral industry and a certified director of asales through the Hilton brand, Smith is well-prepared to handle the administrative challenges of her new position, as per the Newsd & Insights report of the RV Industry Association.
Her previous experience includes obtaining an Indiana life insurance license to assist families in arranging pre-need funeral services, and managing large-scale events, which have equipped her with a robust skill set beneficial to her responsibilities at RVTI.
As recruitment administrator, Smith’s primary responsibilities will involve supporting the institute’s recruitment staff and managing administrative tasks related to the institute’s training programs.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to speak with anyone interested in getting certified in our Level 1 and Level 2 training programs,” Smith said. Her role is crucial in ensuring that potential technicians are well-informed and motivated to join the industry.
Smith’s connection to the RV industry is not just professional but also deeply personal. Having lived in Elkhart, the hub of RV manufacturing, for over 40 years, she has witnessed first-hand the industry’s significance to the local economy.
“Elkhart is the RV Capital of the World. It’s the bread and butter of our economy,” Smith said. Her oldest son’s two-decade career in RV manufacturing underscores her familial ties to the industry.
The strategic significance of Elkhart as the epicenter of the RV industry cannot be overstated. The city’s economy is heavily reliant on RV manufacturing and related services, which are vital for local employment and economic stability. Smith’s role in recruiting competent technicians is therefore essential not only for RVTI but also for the community at large.
Smith was particularly impressed by the global reach and impact of RVTI’s curriculum when she joined the institute. “It’s massive and worldwide, a fact I hadn’t fully appreciated despite my familiarity with the area,” she noted. This global perspective has enhanced her appreciation for the potential of her role to influence the industry positively.
Looking forward, Smith faces several challenges in her new position, including expanding the reach of RVTI’s recruitment efforts to meet growing industry needs. Her immediate goals include enhancing the visibility and appeal of the institute’s training programs and ensuring that they are recognized as a premier choice for aspiring RV technicians.
The RV Technical Institute is actively planning further initiatives to combat the shortage of skilled technicians in the industry. These include broadening their educational offerings and integrating more hands-on training opportunities, which Smith will be instrumental in promoting.
Mary Smith’s appointment as recruitment administrator is set to have a significant impact on the RV Technical Institute’s efforts to train highly skilled technicians. Her extensive background, coupled with her personal and professional stakes in the RV industry, position her uniquely to drive the institute’s goals forward.
As RVTI continues to expand its programs and outreach under her administration, the future looks promising for both the institute and the wider RV community in Elkhart and beyond.