General RV, Jones Technical Institute Partner on Training – RVBusiness – Breaking RV Industry News
WIXOM, Mich. – General RV Center, the nation’s largest family-owned RV dealer, and Jones Technical Institute (also known as J-Tech) based in Jacksonville, Fla., have joined forces to train 55 students to fill the critical need for RV technicians nationwide, according to a release.
In 2020, RV service technicians were the third fastest-growing job of the year as millions joined the RV community and purchased RVs as a social distancing travel alternative. The demand for skilled technicians remains high today as interest in RV ownership continues to rise with 32% of leisure travelers saying they would like to buy an RV in the next 12 months. In addition, 72 million Americans plan to take an RV trip over the next year resulting in more demand and opportunity for skilled RV technicians than ever before.
The program, which started in 2020 as J-Tech’s Marine & RV Technology, covers essential technician training including gas and diesel prime movers, marine systems, heating and air-conditioning, sanitation and refrigeration. Students get valuable hands-on experience working on acquired and donated RVs as well as have access to a wide array of training aids and tools. As part of the partnership, General RV has provided industry-standard equipment and training materials including refrigerators, air conditioners and axles to ensure students are familiar with all aspects of RV experience.
“Our partnership with General RV represents a powerful collaboration aimed at preparing the next generation of RV technicians,” said Eric Adams, J-Tech’s Director of Education. “Together, we empower our graduates with the skills and experiences needed to excel in this dynamic field.”
J-Tech also provides opportunities for students to prepare for life after graduation with interview preparation and career services that match students with tailored employment opportunities. General RV also helps students prepare for their next steps by taking part in mock interviews and job fairs, allowing students feedback from industry professionals.
“It is incredibly important for the RV industry that we support those that are interested in an RV technician career,” said Katie Boley, General RV Recruiting Operations Manager. “We are thankful there are schools focused on this industry that we can partner with and help educate people on the thriving careers available within the RV industry and with General RV.”
About General RV
Founded in Michigan in 1962, General RV Center is the nation’s premier, largest family-owned RV dealer. The company operates 14 full-service dealerships in Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, Virginia, Florida, Utah and Pennsylvania. Each location offers a large selection of RVs for sale, RV service facilities and retail RV parts and accessories. Visit GeneralRV.com for more information.
About J-Tech
Founded in 2013 by Compass Rose Foundation, Inc., Jones Technical Institute (J-Tech) is a non-profit and postsecondary institution of higher learning offering programs of study within the occupational arena known as the “hard trades.” The institution prepares graduates for gainful employment in the Automotive, Commercial Truck Driving, Diesel & Heavy Equipment, HVAC-R, Marine & RV and Welding & Fabrication related industries.
Source: https://rvbusiness.com/general-rv-jones-technical-institute-partner-on-training/