The RV Industry Association (RVIA) has welcomed Yi Shen as its new staff attorney, a role focused on supporting the organization’s internal legal operations and its work with members, federal regulators, and various industry stakeholders.
Shen brings a blend of private practice experience and government service to the position.
Shen grew up in Richmond, Virginia, and later attended the University of Virginia for his undergraduate studies. He went on to earn his J.D. from the Catholic University of America, a foundation that launched his career in both the private and public sectors.
Before joining the association, Shen worked as an associate attorney in private practice, where he handled a range of legal matters. Most recently, he served as a real estate specialist for Arlington County, gaining experience in government processes and regulatory frameworks.
In his new position, Shen plays a central role in the association’s legal department. “I’ve taken over responsibility for contract review and management and am supporting project goals, such as helping to plan the Lawyers Committee meeting agenda and working on matters related to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,” he said in a News and Insights report of RVIA.
Shen’s responsibilities extend beyond contract oversight. He also collaborates with other departments within the organization to ensure legal alignment and risk mitigation.
One area where Shen has provided direct guidance is in federal advocacy. “I’ve been supporting our Government Affairs team with their PFAS advocacy,” he explained.
Shen also provides support to the RV Technical Institute (RVTI). “I’ve also advised the RV Technical Institute related to its training materials,” he said.
Member engagement is another aspect of the role that Shen values deeply. “I think building that human connection is crucial for this job, and the association’s legal team really prioritizes relationship building,” he says.
Beyond his legal work, Shen is expanding his understanding of the RV sector’s business dynamics. “I’m really interested in the business aspect of the RV industry and learning how it works,” he says, adding that the knowledge helps inform his strategic approach to legal analysis.
He also pointed to insights shared by RVIA President and CEO Craig Kirby as a meaningful influence. Shen says learning about the “three-legged stool” of manufacturers and suppliers, dealers, and campgrounds reframed his perspective on the industry’s interconnectedness.
“This is a multi-billion-dollar industry that supports so many good, bipartisan causes that everyone can get behind, like conservation and spending time outdoors with family,” he added.