RVIA has established a new scholarship to help cover the cost of RV technician training at the RV Technical Institute.
Called the Kevin Phillips Scholarship, the funds will be directed to new high school graduates, people leaving the military or non-college bound individuals. Training costs are just another hurdle to overcome in securing a stable, well-paying job for people just entering the work force or leaving the military. Through this scholarship, the RVIA aims to provide financial assistance which will not only help the new technicians, but also recruit more RV technicians.
RVIA Chairman and RVTI Board member Jeff Rutherford, also president and CEO of Airxcel, said the scholarship was dedicated to Kevin Phillips due to his passing in April 2021.
“Last April, we lost a great leader, good friend, and colleague,” Rutherford said. “At the time, many asked what they could do for Kevin’s family. I discussed an idea with his wife SeAnn, and we thought perhaps the best way to honor his legacy was to establish a scholarship in his name at the RV Technical Institute.
“You all know Kevin was passionate about the RV industry,” Rutherford continued, “about his activities with the RV Industry Association, and his involvement in helping set up and establish RVTI. He was a true advocate for continual learning and saw vocational training as an alternative to the idea that everyone needs to go to college.”
To establish the scholarship, Airxcel will make an annual contribution to establish the scholarship and help keep it going. The hope is for others to also donate to the fund, increasing the number of new technicians that can be trained. Currently, the cost for one year of RVTI training is $300.
“This industry has provided so much to all of us,” Rutherford said. “I encourage you to consider a contribution that will not only provide the industry with qualified technicians, but that will also support the vision that Kevin helped create.”
To contribute, send a check to: RV Technical Institute, 3333 Middlebury Street, Elkhart, IN 46516. Checks should be made out to RV Technical Institute and list “Kevin Phillips Scholarship” in the note section. RVTI is a 501 3C entity so all donations qualify as a charitable tax deduction.
