RV Technical Institute (RVTI), Navarro College and Fun Town RV last week celebrated the launch of a new technician training program in Corsicana, Texas.
RVTI said the initiative is designed to train and certify technicians qualified to join the workforce in RV dealerships and independent mobile technician businesses.
Classes began Oct. 20. At the ribbon-cutting, Navarro College was named an RVTI Authorized Learning Partner (ALP). The college is the first in the country to be an ALP.
RVTI Vice President of Education and Operations Sharonne Lee said the new program focuses on providing hands-on instruction in inspecting, diagnosing and repairing core RV systems. Training will include propane, electrical, plumbing, appliance and chassis systems.
“This is a model to expand across the United States,” Lee said, “to partner with other community colleges and educational institutions.”
Jarrod McGhee of Fun Town RV stressed the demand for skilled workers and the rewarding nature of industry jobs. McGhee said employees who can turn a wrench and fix problems will be well paid.
“If you want to know how the real world is going, go to a campground,” McGhee said. “It is all good people there, and when one person has a problem, they are all over there helping the others, and that is the kind of industry I want to work in.”
Navarro College Executive Director of Workforce, Career and Technical Education Dr. Tara Peters emphasized the significance of industry/education collaboration.
“This really is a milestone event for the institution,” Peters said, “and a great example and best practice of industry collaboration for our eco-system in terms of our city Corsicana, economic development and workforce.”
Corsicana Mayor Joe Hill said the school plays a vital role in local economic development.
“This is what Navarro College is all about, and near and dear to our hearts is economic development,” Hill said. “Businesses need knowledgeable and skilled employees and access to a training facility is a must.”
