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RVDA Webinar to Help Dealers Capitalize on the Shift to Lithium-Powered RVs on August 5

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FAIRFAX, Va. — As more RV manufacturers make lithium batteries standard equipment, dealerships are finding themselves on the front lines of educating customers, answering technical questions, and supporting rapidly evolving technology. To help dealers turn this industry shift into a competitive advantage, the RV Dealers Association (RVDA) will host a live 30-minute webinar on Wednesday, August 5, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern, titled “Selling the Future – How Lithium Batteries Are Powering the Modern RV,” featuring Wade Seaburg, Chief Commercial Officer of Dragonfly Energy (Maker of Battle Born Batteries). Dealers and dealership staff who would like to attend can register here. 

Whether your team is in sales, parts, service, or management, understanding lithium battery technology is quickly becoming essential. This fast-paced webinar will provide practical, dealer-focused guidance to help staff sell with confidence, improve customer experience, and prepare for the growing number of lithium-equipped RVs entering the market. 

“Today’s RV buyers have more questions than ever about lithium battery technology, and they expect dealerships to have the answers,” said Phil Ingrassia, President of RVDA. “This webinar will give dealers practical knowledge they can use immediately—from improving showroom conversations to supporting customers long after the sale.” 

During the webinar, Battle Born Batteries experts will discuss: 

  • How the rapid adoption of lithium batteries is reshaping the RV ownership experience. 
  • The questions customers ask and how dealership staff can confidently answer them. 
  • Proven sales strategies that communicate the value of lithium-powered RVs. 
  • Key service, warranty, and support considerations every dealership should understand. 
  • What dealers can do today to prepare for the future of RV electrical systems. 


As consumer demand for longer-lasting, more efficient power solutions continues to grow. Dealerships that understand lithium technology will be better positioned to build customer trust, increase sales, and deliver exceptional ownership experiences. 


The webinar is part of RVDA’s ongoing “Help Me Solve….” educational series, which connects dealers with trusted industry experts to provide practical solutions to today’s most pressing dealership challenges. 

About RVDA 
RVDA is the national association representing RV retailers across the United States. RVDA provides education, advocacy, industry leadership, and business services that help dealers operate more successful dealerships and better serve RV customers. For more information, visit www.rvda.org. 

SarahTurner

Sarah Turner of Tim’s RV Awarded 2026 RV Learning Center Scholarship


(Fairfax, VA) Sarah Turner of Erving, MA, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Mike Molino RV Learning Center (RVLC) $5,000 College Scholarship for the 2026-27 academic year.  

Turner, who will be a senior at Liberty University in the fall, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Data Analysis: Project Management. She maintains a 4.0 GPA while working part-time as a service writer at Tim’s RV, Inc. in Erving.  

Growing up in an RV family and now building a career in the industry, she has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to professional development, including completing the Mike Molino RV Learning Center’s Service Writer training course.  

“This year marks the 26th year of the RV Learning Center Scholarship program, and we received a record number of applications from outstanding students who are passionate about their education and the future of the RV industry,” said RVLC Education Director Ally Brown. “Choosing a recipient was incredibly difficult because so many applicants demonstrated impressive academic accomplishments, leadership, and a genuine enthusiasm for our industry. Sarah’s lifelong connection to RVing, her work as a service writer, and her commitment to growing her knowledge and skills made her a standout candidate. We have no doubt that she will go far, and we’re grateful to have her as part of the RV Learning Center community and the future of the RV industry.” 

Her passion for the RV industry, outstanding academic achievements, and dedication to serving others make her an outstanding representative of the industry’s next generation of leaders. 

“We are excited to share this announcement and are extremely proud of Sarah for taking the initiative to apply for this opportunity,” said Tim Christenson, owner of Tim’s RV, Inc. 

Sarah’s father Brandon Turner also works at Tim’s RV as service department manager. 

The scholarship is made possible through the generous support of the Kindlund family and reflects Newt and Joanne Kindlund’s commitment to supporting the next generation of RV Industry leaders.  

Each year, one undergraduate student receives a $5,000 scholarship. Eligible applicants include rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors pursuing degrees in business, finance, economics, accounting or other RV Industry-related fields.  

Students who are currently working in the RV Industry, have a family connection or aspire to enter the field are encouraged to apply. 

 

RVDA Convention/Expo Session to Focus on Recruiting and Hiring Top Performers

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(Fairfax, VA) Hiring great people is one of the greatest challenges facing RV dealerships today. At the 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, TeamNavX founder Jamison Carrier will share proven recruiting strategies that help dealerships attract, hire, and develop top performers who drive long-term success.  

“Building a Championship Team: How Leading Dealerships Attract Top Performers” will be presented from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, as part of the Dealer/GM track of sessions. 

Carrier will cover proven strategies, practical tools, and offer a take-home workbook designed to help dealers recruit, interview, and develop top performers. 

During the session, he will help dealers: 

  • Understand why top performers rarely apply for jobs and how to proactively recruit them. 
  • Learn a proven interview framework that uncovers performance patterns and helps leaders consistently differentiate between average candidates and top performers. 
  • Create MAPs that provide role clarity, improve hiring decisions and accelerate onboarding. 
  • Build a culture that attracts, retains, develops and multiplies top performers. 
  • Develop an action plan to strengthen their dealership’s talent pipeline and long-term recruiting success. 


The Convention/Expo will take place Nov. 9-13, 2026, at Paris Las Vegas and is sponsored by RVDA of U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center.  

About the RV Dealers Convention/Expo  
The convention allows North America’s top dealership personnel to forge valuable connections with peers, industry leaders, and potential business partners in the Expo. Dealership professionals can expand their network and gain insights from the best in the RV industry.   

The dealer-organized RVDA Convention will provide an in-depth look into the current sales landscape. Attendees will have access to valuable resources to optimize all departments within a dealership, including fixed operations. 

To register for the 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo click here. Regular updates will be posted on the convention website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.     

The event is sponsored by RVDA of the U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center.  

Companies interested in partnership, sponsorship, exhibiting, and Vendor Training Plus opportunities can contact Julie Newhouse at (703) 364-5518 or email jnewhouse@rvda.org.  

Vendor Training +Plus Sessions at 2026 RVDA Convention/Expo Feature Technology, Sales and AI Uses

(Fairfax, VA) More than 30 Vendor Training Plus sessions are already slated for the 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo that will help dealership professionals learn more about the latest products and services available to them on the market. 

Vendor Training Plus sessions are informative one-hour workshops offered by prominent industry vendors in finance, insurance, marketing, sales, fixed operations, and management. 

“These sessions not only help dealerships boost their knowledge of the products being offered by vendors, but they also help promote stronger partnerships between members of our industry,” said RVDA President Phil Ingrassia. “With sessions on topics from AI to aftermarket products and even improving the sales floor, dealers will no doubt be able to find speakers who can help them boost business.” 

The Convention/Expo will take place Nov. 9-13, 2026, at Paris Las Vegas and is sponsored by RVDA of U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center. 

The following Vendor Training Plus sessions have been scheduled:

  • The Identity Gap – The Space Between Who They Say They Are and Who They Really Are. By 700Credit
  • From Risk to Revenue: Leveraging Data Privacy Compliance. By Accelerate2Compliance
  • Overcoming Objections and Presentation Models of Voluntary Protection Products. By American Guardian Warranty Services (AGWS)
  • Simplify Recreational Lending and Maximize Results. By AppOne
  • Technology Solutions to Drive Sales in Your Service Centers. By ASA Electronics
  • Lithium 101 to 401: A Dealer’s Roadmap to Success. By Battle Born
  • Discipline That Delivers: Cadence, Controls, and Accountability for Inventory. By CBIZ
  • Partnering on Change: Improving Customer Service Processes Together. By Forest River
  • Selling More Solar: A Crash Course in Fast Sizing and Selling It Right. By Go Power! | Dometic
  • The Dealership Playbook: Experience as a Sales Strategy. By Harvest Hosts
  • Ctrl Alt Service: How Everyday Dealers Are Quietly Winning with AI. By IDS-Integrated Dealer Systems
  • The “Invisible Advisor”: Using AI to Solve the Service Capacity Crisis. By Kenect
  • While Your Team Sleeps, Lahzo Sells. By Lahzo
  • How Disconnected Systems Cost Dealers Money – And How to Fix It. By Lightspeed DMS
  • Turning Data Into Dollars: Modernizing RV Dealerships Through Smarter Inventory, Actionable Dashboards, and Eliminated Expenses. By Motility Software Solutions
  • Building a Smarter Pre-Owned RV Strategy Through Auctions. By National Powersport Auctions
  • How Sick Is Your Sales Floor. By Nextup
  • Inventory Page Execution (Do’s and Don’ts). By Qualify Wizard
  • AI Is Here – And It’s Already Changing What Dealers Stock, Price, and Sell. By Rapidious
  • Next-Gen RV Power: How Solid-State Batteries & Advanced Solar Systems Drive Safety, Sales, and Performance. By Renogy
  • Renters Today. Buyers Tomorrow. Building the Modern RV Rental and Ownership Ecosystem. By RV Worry Free
  • Don’t Leave Money on the Table: Maximize Your Reinsurance Profits. By The Stanek-Haack Group at Morgan Stanley
  • Who is Driving Your Parts Business? By Tom Manning & Associates
  • Your RV Dealer Operating System. By Vision Management Group – Overdrive


For more details on Vendor Training Plus, visit rvdaexpo.com/workshops.

About the RV Dealers Convention/Expo
The convention allows North America’s top dealership personnel to forge valuable connections with peers, industry leaders, and potential business partners in the Expo. Dealership professionals can expand their network and gain insights from the best in the RV industry.

The dealer-organized RVDA Convention will provide an in-depth look into the current sales landscape. Attendees will have access to valuable resources to optimize all departments within a dealership, including fixed operations.

To register for the 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo click here. Regular updates will be posted on the convention website, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.   

The event is sponsored by RVDA of the U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center. 

Companies interested in partnership, sponsorship, and exhibiting can contact Julie Newhouse at (703) 364-5518 or email jnewhouse@rvda.org.

 

Ian_Wyatt

Huntington Economist Will Examine Economic Trends for 2027 During Convention/Expo


(Fairfax, VA) After three tough years, dealerships across the country are anxiously awaiting data that will give them an idea of what to expect in 2027.

Ian Wyatt, a senior economist at Huntington Bank, has expertise in commercial lending, macroeconomic forecasting, and industry-specific analysis that will help dealers make sense of the often confusing and conflicting data during an education session at the upcoming RV Dealers Convention/Expo. 

“Maintaining the Economic Momentum for Our Business” will be presented from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, as part of the Dealer/GM education track.

Ian will look at economic trends such as consumer sentiment, interest rates and other key trends during the presentation.

During the session, Ian will:

  • Provide dealers with a better understanding of short and long-term interest rates and other relevant trends in the consumer and commercial lending markets.
  • Discuss the current macroeconomic picture from a number of perspectives and the outlook for the overall economy in 2027 as well as delve into key trends in consumer spending and behavior.
  • Delve into key trends in consumer spending and behavior.


The Convention/Expo will take place Nov. 9-13, 2026, at Paris Las Vegas and is sponsored by RVDA of U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center.

About the RV Dealers Convention/Expo 
The convention allows North America’s top dealership personnel to forge valuable connections with peers, industry leaders, and potential business partners in the Expo. Dealership professionals can expand their network and gain insights from the best in the RV industry.  

The dealer-organized RVDA Convention will provide an in-depth look into the current sales landscape. Attendees will have access to valuable resources to optimize all departments within a dealership, including fixed operations.

To register for the 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo click here. Regular updates will be posted on the convention website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.    

The event is sponsored by RVDA of the U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center. 

Companies interested in partnership, sponsorship, exhibiting, and Vendor Training Plus opportunities can contact Julie Newhouse at (703) 364-5518 or email jnewhouse@rvda.org. 

 

RVDA Board Approves Repair Event Cycle Time Resolution and FY27 Budget

The RVDA Board of Directors approved a resolution reaffirming the association’s commitment to continuous improvement of Repair Event Cycle Time (RECT) during its June meeting in Washington, DC.

The resolution states that: The RVDA Board of Directors acknowledges the RV industry’s shared strategic goal of improving RECT reporting and enhancing parts identification across dealership and manufacturing systems. The Board affirms that RECT is a shared operational challenge requiring ongoing collaboration among RV dealers, RV manufacturers, and component parts suppliers.

The Board further recognizes that improvements in warranty administration can lead to faster repairs, reduced vehicle downtime, and improved customer experiences. As part of this commitment, the Board supports continued efforts across the RV industry to strengthen warranty processes that contribute to reducing RECT.

The statement emphasizes that it encourages lawful, independent action and does not establish or recommend uniform warranty standards, timelines, or reimbursement practices, nor does it authorize or imply coordination of competitive behavior.

The resolution was advanced to the Board of Directors by RVDA’s Industry Relations Committee.

In other business, the Board approved the association’s FY2027 program, plan, and budget. The $4.31 million budget supports RVDA’s strategic priorities, including advocacy initiatives on behalf of dealer members, member benefit programs, industry relations projects such as RECT improvement, and fixed‑operations education and training offered through the Mike Molino RV Learning Center.

“No Tax on RV Loans” Bill Introduced

Congressman Rudy Yakym (R-IN) and Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-NV) have introduced legislation (H.R. 8672) that would eliminate taxes on RV consumer loans. The bill would extend the Working Families Tax Cut’s no tax on auto loans provision to trailers, campers, and all motorhomes. A Senate bill (S. 4653) was introduced by Sen. Todd Young (R-IN). The bill has the strong support of RVDA and RVIA.

BACKGROUND: Last year’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act included the “No Tax on Car Loan Interest” provision that allows taxpayers to deduct up to $10,000 per year in interest paid on loans for newly purchased vehicles manufactured in the United States. RVs were not included in the final version. The newly introduced bipartisan bill explicitly classifies all motorhomes and towable campers as “applicable passenger vehicles,” allowing buyers to deduct interest on their RV loans.

The RV industry is strongly advocating for this legislation because it ensures fair tax treatment and prevents middle-income families, the primary buyers earning under $100,000, from being priced out of affordable travel.

RVDA and RVIA are requesting that lawmakers cosponsor H.R. 8672 and the Senate companion bill (S. 4653), which would include RVs in the definition of “applicable passenger vehicle,” allowing taxpayers to deduct up to $10,000 in loan interest on American-made RVs. This provision encourages families to buy American-made products and access more affordable ways to travel, recreate, and explore, while supporting rural economies.

“For millions of American families, an RV is how they take a summer road trip with the kids, see the country, or enjoy retirement on the open road,” Rep. Yakym said. “It’s a big investment, and it should be treated like one. As the congressman representing the RV capital of America, I hear from manufacturers and dealers all the time about what this relief would mean for working families. This bill is simple: if you’re paying interest on an RV loan, you should be able to deduct it.”

“For many families and tourists across the country, there is no better way to experience our national parks and beautiful natural landscapes than from an RV,” Rep. Titus said. “This bipartisan legislation will help make that more affordable, allowing even more people to explore Nevada and boosting our outdoor recreation in these challenging economic times.”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE.

reinsurance

RVDA Announces Webinar on Unlocking the Hidden Power of Dealer Reinsurance

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Fairfax, VA — At a time when RV dealers are facing increasing pressure on margins, rising operational costs, and ongoing market uncertainty, the RV Dealers Association (RVDA) is hosting a free 45-minute webinar on Wednesday, June 10 at 2 p.m. Eastern about the hidden power of dealer reinsurance. 

The event will deliver practical advice on how RV dealers looking to diversify revenue streams and maximize the value of finance and protection product participation can immediately apply to their operations and play an important role in long-term financial and business planning.

Click here to register for the event.

In this webinar, Brad Stanek, a Morgan Stanley financial advisor who specializes in working with RV dealership owners, will help guide the discussion and offer ideas to reclaim those missed opportunities. The goal is to make reinsurance feel clear, actionable, and manageable—not confusing or “set it and forget it.”

Among the topics that will be discussed are:

  • How reinsurance accounts work (in plain English).
  • The key differences between: 
    -“A” account: the reserve for claims, which must be conservatively invested.
    -“B” account: earned-out premiums that can often be invested for growth.
  • When and how to transfer funds from the A account to the B account at the right times—so you are not leaving growth on the table.
  • How to ensure both accounts are invested appropriately, based on their purpose and constraints.


Attendees will receive practical information and a complimentary reinsurance analysis intended to help identify areas for further review – a personalized reinsurance “roadmap” and complementary (no cost, no obligation) reinsurance analysis to identify gaps and practical steps to pursue better outcomes.

“This webinar comes at an important time for RV dealers,” said RVDA President Phil Ingrassia. “With increasing focus on financial efficiency and long-term business stability, understanding dealer reinsurance is no longer optional for dealership leadership. Brad Stanek brings a wealth of experience and insight that dealers will find extremely valuable.”

The webinar is part of RVDA’s ongoing commitment to providing dealers with education that addresses the most pressing business issues facing the RV industry today.

RV Strategies LLC, an affiliate of RVDA, has a referral relationship with Morgan Stanley and may receive compensation if attendees engage Morgan Stanley for advisory services. RV Strategies does not provide investment advice or manage accounts.

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Call for Proposals Opens for 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo

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FAIRFAX, Va. — The 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo Call for Proposals is now open, inviting industry professionals to share their expertise and insights with RV dealers from across North America. To review submission guidelines and complete the proposal form, click here.

Hosted by the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, the National RV Dealers Association (RVDA), and RVDA of Canada, the Convention/Expo features a comprehensive lineup of education sessions focused on helping dealerships improve operations, increase profitability, and navigate today’s evolving marketplace.

“Our goal is to deliver education that dealers can immediately put into practice,” said Education Director of the RV Learning Center, Ally Brown. “We encourage proposals that go beyond theory and focus on proven ideas that drive performance, improve operations, and enhance the customer experience.”

The Convention/Expo Committee is seeking engaging, real-world education sessions that provide practical insights and actionable takeaways for RV dealership professionals. Proposed sessions should offer strategies, ideas, or lessons learned that help dealers improve performance, solve challenges, and operate more effectively.

Topics may include, but are not limited to:

  • Fixed operations and service efficiency
  • Sales strategies and customer experience
  • Leadership and workforce development
  • F&I performance and compliance
  • Marketing, digital retailing, and emerging trends

Industry experts, dealership professionals, and solution providers are encouraged to submit proposals for consideration. Submissions will be accepted through May 8, 2026.

The 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo will bring together top dealership professionals, industry leaders, and solution providers for networking, education, and collaboration designed to move the industry forward.

fixed-ops-training

RV Learning Center Offers Affordable, Accessible Fixed Operations Training for RV Dealerships

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

The Mike Molino RV Learning Center’s suite of online fixed‑operations training provides dealerships a comprehensive, flexible way to strengthen service department performance from the front counter to the parts desk.

The RV Service Manager course is the Learning Center’s newest offering and provides an in‑depth look at leadership, workflow management, customer communication, staffing, and departmental financial performance. Designed for both new and experienced managers, the program helps participants build the operational and supervisory skills needed to run an efficient, customer‑focused service department.

Following the management course, the RV Service Writer/Advisor program remains one of the most in‑demand online trainings. It focuses on customer service, repair order processes, communication skills, and best practices that improve satisfaction and reduce misunderstandings between customers and technicians.

The RV Warranty Administrator course provides essential training on documentation, claim preparation, manufacturer requirements, and the administrative processes that protect dealership revenue. Participants learn how to avoid common errors and streamline warranty submissions for faster reimbursement.

For parts personnel, the RV Parts Manager course offers instruction on inventory control, merchandising, purchasing, and departmental profitability. It is designed to help managers improve accuracy and overall customer satisfaction.

Rounding out the lineup, the RV Parts Specialist course delivers foundational training for frontline parts counter staff. The curriculum covers parts identification, customer interaction, inventory processes, and the essential knowledge needed to support both retail customers and technicians.

Cross‑Training Strengthens the Entire Fixed‑Ops Team

Dealerships increasingly recognize the value of cross‑training within the service and parts departments. When employees understand how each role contributes to the overall workflow—from writing repair orders to sourcing parts to processing warranty claims—communication improves, bottlenecks decrease, and customers receive a more seamless experience. The RV Learning Center’s online courses make this type of cross‑functional training accessible and affordable, allowing dealerships to build a more versatile and resilient team.

Flexible, Self‑Paced Learning for Today’s Dealerships

All five courses are delivered online and are self‑paced, making it easy for employees to complete training without disrupting daily operations. Each program includes assessments to reinforce learning and prepare participants for professional certification through the Mike Molino RV Learning Center.  The courses cost $150 each and are ideal preparation for RV Learning Center Fixed Operations Certification Exams, which are available for a separate fee.

About the Mike Molino RV Learning Center
The Mike Molino RV Learning Center provides online training, certification, and professional development to strengthen RV dealership fixed‑operations performance nationwide. Supported by dealers, manufacturers, and industry partners, the Learning Center advances workforce professionalism and enhances the RV ownership experience. The Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and eligible contributions may be tax‑deductible.

Dealers interested in enrolling staff or learning more about the fixed‑operations curriculum can visit the RV Learning Center’s website at www.rvlearningcenter.com.

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