The RV Women’s Alliance, in partnership with the RV Technical Institute (RVTI), hosted its third all-women’s Level 1 RV technician course from September 9 to 13 in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The course, coinciding with the Pennsylvania RV and Camping Association’s Hershey RV Show, offered hands-on technical training for women.
Eight women attended the weeklong training at the Hershey Lodge, where they gained practical experience working on a travel trailer. This course is part of a series designed to increase female representation in the RV technician field. It also marks the “final all-women’s Level 1 training session” for 2024, with more planned for next year.
Curt Hemmeler, executive director of the RVTI, praised the initiative, stating that the RV Women’s Alliance partnership sparked interest among women seeking careers as RV technicians.
“We’ve happy that our partnership with the RV Women’s Alliance is providing women with this educational opportunity, and more women are embarking on the RV technician career path armed with the necessary knowledge to build a successful and rewarding career,” Hemmeler explained.
Bill Stewart, director of education at the RVTI, led the course. Stewart emphasized participants’ enthusiasm and commitment, noting their determination to contribute to the RV industry. He has taught all three all-women’s courses this year.
“I like to see when the lightbulb turns on and their questions show me that they know and understand. Our goal at the RV Technical Institute is to train technicians, and we have had several success stories working with the women who attend these training sessions through the RV Women’s Alliance. I’m sure we will have many more!” Stewart said in a News & Insights report of the RV Industry Association (RVIA).
Participants learned about RV systems throughout the course, including propane, electrical, plumbing, appliances, and chassis systems. The comprehensive training ensures that graduates are equipped to prepare RVs for customer delivery.
Several attendees expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to learn alongside other women. Stephanie Lemma, the Pennsylvania State Guide for Girl Camper, noted that the course expanded her knowledge and empowered her to teach others. She highlighted instructor Stewart’s expertise and the supportive learning environment.
Another Girl Camper Guide, Theresa Leppert, echoed these sentiments, sharing her desire to use her newfound skills to educate others and eventually establish a mobile RV technician business.