A Pennsylvania woman became the fourth person to achieve the master certified RV inspector credentials through the National RV Inspectors Association (NRVIA). The first such credentials were issued in June.
Carol Jackson, from Lititz, Pennsylvania, started her full-time RV inspection business toward the end of 2015 and estimates she has completed nearly 550 evaluations since.
“Since taking auto classes in high school, I have always been adept at mechanical skills,” Jackson said. “My husband, Jim, and I have been avid RVers for most of our married life. When I saw an ad to get training as an RV inspector, he strongly encouraged me to pursue the opportunity.”
In addition to becoming a certified RV inspector, Jackson also became a certified RV technician. The NRVIA code of ethics prevents her from working on an RV she inspects for one year after the evaluation; however, Jackson hears from former inspection clients who call her after the waiting period ends.
Jackson attended NRVIA courses at the National RV Training Academy, as well as various workshops offered by suppliers such as Lippert, Dometic, Norcold and Aqua-Hot.
“I really enjoy sharing my knowledge about camping and how RVs work with people just entering the RV lifestyle,” Jackson said. “It is a privilege to be able to evaluate an RV someone is about to buy, help them understand how it works and, later, fix anything that may need attention.”
Jackson has a bachelor’s degree in entrepreneurship from Eastern University as well as an associate’s degree in automotive technology from Lincoln Technical Institute.
NRVIA members must apply for the honor of becoming a master certified inspector, according to Stephanie Henson, NRVIA director of administration. Applications are reviewed by a committee of experienced inspectors.
“Carol is a rock star member of NRVIA,” Henson said. “She sets a very positive example as a professional RV inspector, and we know any inspection she completes for a client has been thoroughly vetted. She has certainly earned this distinction.
To be considered for the credential, applicants must operate an active and insured inspection business for at least two consecutive years; complete 50 verifiable advanced RV inspections; have at least 10 verifiable reviews from clients with a satisfaction rating of 80% or higher listed on a third-party platform such as Google; either publish an article in an industry publication relevant to RV inspections or RV systems training, or present a similar topic at an industry rally, conference or expo; and maintain a professional business website promoting RV inspection services.
For more information about becoming a certified RV inspector or getting an RV inspected, visit www.nrvia.org, email [email protected] or call (855) 472-9948.
