With new RV owners entering the marketplace all the time, the leadership of FMCA (Family Motor Coach Association) decided to create a new membership category called Pathfinder, with the goal of assisting these “RV intenders” and making sure they are armed with the know-how they should have as they launch their RV adventure.
In 2021, the RV Industry Association (RVIA) released results of a demographic study that concluded there were 11.2 million RV-owning households in the United States, plus another 20.5 million households planning to buy an RV.
“Throughout its 60-year history, FMCA has positioned itself as a leader in RV education,” FMCA CEO Chris Smith said. “When we looked around the RV industry, we noticed that a void existed in terms of serving new people entering the lifestyle. Of course, you can find all sorts of information online these days, but what seemed to be needed was a singular source of trustworthy content. FMCA wants to provide that via Pathfinder membership. Essentially, we want to use our expertise to light the way to RV ownership.”
FMCA publishes Family RVing, a bimonthly magazine — in print, digital and web formats — as well as its monthly “Mile Marker” and quarterly “Tech Talk” e-newsletters. In addition, the association offers FMCA University, an online repository of knowledge available exclusively to members. Another key component of FMCA’s education program is biannual events where approximately 100 different RV-related seminar sessions take place. Plus, in partnership with the RV Driving School, hands-on driving and backing lessons are offered prior to each of these events.
Annual dues for Pathfinder members are $50. They will have access to all member benefits; however, they won’t receive a numbered FMCA membership emblem since they don’t yet own an RV on which to display it, and they will not be able to hold office or vote. Once they purchase an RV, Pathfinder members can easily convert to a full membership in FMCA.
To learn more about FMCA and all the benefits of belonging, visit FMCA.com or call (513) 474-3622 or (800) 543-3622.
