The National RV Training Academy moved its courses into a bigger building last month.
The new building is wider, allowing the 32-seat classroom to be organized so students are closer to the instructor. Each of the 16 tables is equipped with a computer monitor to help students view presentation details.
Classes are taught by Howard Jaros, who said students attending classes in the old building complained the TV visuals were hard to discern from back rows.
“Now they can view the big-screen TV as a reference,” he said. “But watch a monitor right at their desks as I describe essential inspection elements and explain software used to complete evaluations.”
The new building is closer to The Texan RV park students used to conduct inspections during training.
“It is a more comfortable facility and a little quieter, too,” Jaros said. “Having everyone in closer proximity to the front (of the classroom) not only facilitates learning but creates a more intimate setting for students to ask questions and communicate with each other.”
A total of 145 students have been trained so far this year, which Jaros said is down slightly from 2020. He said a longer certification process is partially the cause.
“The extra week allows us to cover much more material so graduates leave better trained to conduct thorough evaluations,” he said. “We also have more time to discuss fluid analysis and how to prepare a truly professional, easy-to-read report.”
In the second week, inspectors learn how to set up their own businesses, manage contracts and go over inspection points for towable and motorized RVs. Jaros said the extended classes allow for thorough review of the students’ inspections as a class to strengthen review and reporting skills.
“RV inspections are vastly different from turning wrenches,” Jaros said. “Inspectors are more like consultants who guide buyers through various steps to evaluate the condition of an RV they are looking to buy. The final report is more than just an evaluation of what is good and bad about an RV. It also answers the big question, ‘Is this RV safe to use?’”
Terry Cooper, NRVTA president, said there are still several underserved markets in the United States where trained inspectors are needed.
“While some very large markets have a number of inspectors serving those areas, demand for services in some states has inspectors driving for hours just to meet clients,” he said.
For more, visit www.nrvta.com, email [email protected] or call (903) 386-0444.
