The National RV Training Academy (NRVTA) is commemorating its five-year anniversary at the iconic Big Red Schoolhouse, located within the Texan RV Park in Athens, Texas. Since its inception, the Big Red Schoolhouse has served as the epicenter for empowering over 5000 students, including aspiring certified RV technicians, inspectors and RV owners eager to master the art of RV maintenance and repair.
Occupying 20,000 square feet, the Big Red Schoolhouse stands as the largest hands-on training facility in the nation, equipped with state-of-the-art tools and resources valued at hundreds of thousands of dollars, NRVTA said. Among its resources are absorption refrigerators, furnaces, water heaters and air conditioners, as well as an assortment of RVs and RV frames, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities.
Founded by a dedicated cohort of RV enthusiasts, the NRVTA boasts a faculty comprising not only skilled professionals but also individuals driven by a shared passion to make an impact in the industry. At the helm is Terry Cooper, affectionately known as the Texas RV Professor, whose career includes stints at Texas State Technical College and Northampton Community College. Mr. Cooper’s vision and commitment have been instrumental in shaping the academy’s mission and success.
In 2017, the Big Red Schoolhouse expanded its mandate with the inauguration of the Big Red Schoolhouse & Community Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity dedicated to fostering education and community engagement. With seven classrooms and an open training facility, the center caters to diverse training needs, ranging from RV technical training to solar systems installation.
Reflecting on its journey, the NRVTA said it has achieved remarkable milestones, exceeding its initial objectives. The academy is certified by the Texas Workforce Commission, endorsed by leading OEMs and the Texas RV Association and recognized as an education training provider in East Texas. Additionally, it has received approval from the Veterans Commission for veterans benefits, affirming its commitment to supporting veterans transitioning into civilian careers.
“As we celebrate five years at the Big Red Schoolhouse, we reaffirm our dedication to providing comprehensive training solutions for RV professionals and enthusiasts alike,” said Terry Cooper, managing director of the NRVTA. “Our journey has been marked by resilience, innovation and unwavering commitment to excellence. We look forward to continuing our mission of empowering individuals and advancing the RV industry for years to come.”
For more information about the National RV Training Academy and its programs, visit nrvta.com.
