Five years ago, RVIA and RVDA launched the RV Technical Institute (RVTI). The learning organization was created to deliver technician training nationwide.
Today, nearly 1,000 RV dealerships in North America have certified technicians, with over 6,400 certified techs on the job.
RVIA President and CEO Craig Kirby said, “Our goal was simple: to create a gold-standard training program to empower technicians to deliver exceptional service and elevate the RV experience. After five years, I can confidently say that we have built a nationwide community of skilled and enthusiastic professionals dedicated to keeping RVers on the road and creating unforgettable memories.”
RV industry members are invited to celebrate the anniversary at the RVTI facility during the Elkhart Extravaganza, Sept. 23-26. By the end of its fourth year, more than 15,000 students had enrolled in RVTI courses.
The institute began providing training in 2019 at its 18,000-square-foot facility in Elkhart, Indiana. When 2020 unfolded, training switched to Level 1 online Zoom courses. The courses were the precursor to the organization’s self-paced online courses available for Level 1 and Level 2 programs.
RVTI took strides to reach new technicians, including high school students. The institute exhibits at American School Counselor Association events, where RVTI staff educate high school counselors about the RV industry. RVTI is collaborating with several schools to implement its training program into curriculums.
RVTI Executive Director Curt Hemmeler said, “Attracting and training service technicians to make sure that millions of RVers continue to enjoy the great outdoors requires creative recruitment efforts.”
The organization partners with its nationwide Authorized Learning Partners, which provide dealerships, technician colleges and correction facilities with curriculum and resources to conduct training. The Authorized Learning Partners network accounts for more than 85% of RVTI students.
Hemmeler said, “We are very proud of the RVTI team and of how manufacturers, dealers, suppliers, campground operators and other RV experts have come together to create a world-class program.”
