A new equipment manager is joining the National RV Training Academy (NRVTA) to assist in preparing classrooms for teacher-led instruction and hands-on labs.
Drue McMillian became an NRVTA-certified technician last year after attending the academy’s courses. His wife, Laura Stewart, was tapped to become a student advisor at the school, which enabled McMillian to help those taking training classes.
McMillian will oversee classroom setup and ensuring instructors are equipped with course tools and necessities. He also will set up individual work stations for hands-on labs.
“I really like the atmosphere at this school,” McMillian said. “There is a lot of activity every day and that creates a great deal of energy all by itself.
“I also enjoy interacting with dozens of students from around the country,” he said. “They all have different stories about what prompted them to seek training at NRVTA and what their goals are once they graduate. It is fun to be able to play a small role in their future success.”
With class sizes exceeding 65 students some weeks, McMillian said it is a “daunting task” to stay ahead of frequently changing equipment requirements. For example, NRVTA stated a hands-on lab regarding air conditioners will require McMillian to bring several dozen units to and from storage.
To continue meeting student needs to become certified RV technicians and inspectors, as well as training RV owners, NRVTA has a “constant need” for updated equipment, NRVTA President Terry Cooper said.
“In order to prepare students to work on RVs manufactured today, we need to show them how to diagnose and repair components being installed on motorhomes and travel trailers,” Cooper said. “That is why we gladly accept donated RVs and equipment for students to use.
“The demand for certified RV technicians and inspectors will be great,” Cooper said. “It is essential that people learning how to inspect and repair RVs in the years ahead learn how to do so on modern equipment.”
Cooper noted the academy’s Big Red School House is designated by the Internal Revenue Service as a nonprofit charitable organization, meaning any equipment, tools, RVs and component donations are tax deductible.
