RVIA began RVs Move America Week by honoring members across the industry. On Monday, the association revealed award recipients during a lunch ceremony.
RVIA annually recognizes individuals, companies and organizations for industry contributions and advancements. The awards honor service and achievement in RV standards, education and government affairs.
David J. Humphreys RV Industry Award
The David J. Humphreys Award honors those who continuously encourage multiple facets of the RV industry to collaborate for industry growth and betterment.
The award recognized Airstream President Bob Wheeler and the late Dan Pearson of PleasureLand RV Center for their work as Go RVing co-chairs.
Wheeler served between 2013-2023 while Pearson joined the coalition in 2017 and served until he died in September.
During their leadership, Go RVing focused on outreach and messaging to more diverse audiences. Wheeler and Pearson initiated research including the
Go RVing Owner Demographic Profile and the Path to Purchase Study.
RVIA honored Wheeler and Pearson for their leadership through the 2020-2023 circumstances. According to RVIA, the pair’s efforts united the industry.
Pearson’s award will be presented to his family, friends and colleagues at PleasureLand RV this summer.
Distinguished Achievement in RV Standards Award
Ryan Hyer of Testing Engineers International received the award honoring individuals who enhance RV standards.
Hyer participated in RVIA Technical Subcommittees since 2008. He provided input on the Standards Steering Committee, Electrical Technical Committee, Plumbing Technical Committee, Fire and Life Safety Technical Committee and the Heating Technical Subcommittee.
He was on the National Fire Protection Association 1192 Standard and the National Fire Protection Association Code Making Panel 7 for the National
Electrical Code.
National Education Service Award
Grand Design CEO Don Clark received the award honoring influential industry members in RV educational programs.
Clark was an RV Technical Institute (RVTI) founding member. During his time as an RVTI board member, Clark supplied multiple teaching aids and equipment to the institute. He attended recruitment and training events, promoted the importance of training and certification and assisted with the
institute’s strategic planning.
National Service Award
Lippert Senior Vice President of Customer Support Services April Klein-Carroll received an award for her commitment to enhancing customer experience around warranty repairs, service and parts processes.
She advocates for RV service technician training and recruitment as the current RVTI treasurer. She serves as an RVIA board member and will receive her award at the RVIA Board of Directors meeting Thursday.
National Legislative Award
Two individuals received the National Legislative Award. Indiana Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-2nd) was honored for his work as RV Caucus co-chair. He advocated for the Travel Trailer and Camper Tax Parity Act in the House of
Representatives. Yakym is co-sponsoring the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act.
Wisconsin state Rep. Scott Krug (R-Nekoosa) was also selected for the award. Krug supported the RV-specific manufacturer-dealer agreement bills throughout the past several years.
