The RV Technical Institute (RVTI) continues to demonstrate its commitment to recruiting and training the next generation of RV service technicians through its participation in the 2024 American School Counselor Association’s Annual Conference (ASCA). This year’s event, held in Kansas City, from July 13 to 16.
Blue Compass RV, a key partner in RVTI’s recruitment efforts, collaborated with the institute. The partnership aims to educate counselors and administrators about RVTI’s training program and encourage them to share this information with high school students interested in skilled trades or seeking alternatives to traditional four-year college paths.
Jon Ferrando, CEO and president of Blue Compass RV, highlighted the company’s commitment to technician training and career opportunities. He expressed enthusiasm about partnering again with the RV Technical Institute at the ASCA in Kansas City.
“This is an incredible opportunity to get our message out to the next generation of RV technicians, show them the tremendous opportunities that await them in the RV industry, and build strong partnerships with school counselors and their schools across the country,” Ferrando said in a News & Insights report of RVIA.
The presence of a full-size RV unit in the exhibit hall, courtesy of Blue Compass RV, enhanced RVTI’s ability to engage with counselors and share information about the RV technician career path.
Justin Rickett, senior manager of recruitment at the RVTI, emphasized that attending the annual event provides an opportunity for the institute to engage with high school counselors and administrators.
“Many of them may be interested in the skilled trades or looking for an alternative to a four-year college. Implementing this program in high schools gives these students an option to become a Level 1 technician by the time they graduate,” Rickett said.
The RVTI’s training program is designed to be hands-on and competency-based, ensuring that students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also gain practical experience.
Halle Edmister, RVTI’s recruitment and dealer account specialist, noted the positive response from attendees. She observed that the RV unit attracted attention to RVTI’s training program.
“As a result, Justin and I shared a significant amount of information on the curriculum with the counselors. Once they take it back to their schools, this could potentially result in increasing the number of trained RV service technicians. We look forward to returning next year!” Edmister said.
For more information about RVTI, visit rvti.org.