The RV industry came together in a powerful display of unity on Monday, Aug. 26, to honor Women’s Equality Day, a day dedicated to commemorating the certification of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote.
Hosted by the RV Women’s Alliance (RVWA) at the RV Technical Institute (RVTI) and sponsored by Camping World, the event drew participation from members of the RV Industry Association (RVIA), RV Technical Institute and RV Dealers Association (RVDA).
“Today, we gather to celebrate Women’s Equality Day — a day to recognize how far we’ve come and how much further we must go in the fight for gender equality. This day commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment which gave women the right to vote,” said RV Technical Institute Chair Mary Pouliot, Thetford Americas’ executive vice president and founding board member of the RV Women’s Alliance.
“One of the most remarkable aspects of this fight has been women entering industries and fields that were once considered ‘a man’s world.’ Whether it’s the boardroom, the battlefield, or the building site, women have not only stepped into these spaces, they have excelled, proving over and over that talent and determination are not defined by gender.”
“Women are also thriving in roles once reserved for men in construction, law enforcement, and politics. Look at the number of females that have gone through RVTI training. It is really amazing and paves the way for many more women to do the same. Females are breaking down stereotypes, wielding tools with the same expertise as their male counterparts.”
In addition to Pouliot, RV Women’s Alliance Chair Denise Chariya of THOR Industries, RV Technical Institute Executive Director Curt Hemmeler and RV Women’s Alliance Trailblazer Award Winner Tracy Anglemeyer of Thetford also spoke.
Attendees enjoyed a festive afternoon complete with food trucks, refreshments and opportunities for networking. The event also featured tours of the RV Technical Institute, providing a unique glimpse into the world of RV technology and repair.
The celebration served as a powerful reminder of the strides made towards achieving gender equality and underscored the ongoing work needed to ensure equal opportunities for all. It also highlighted the vital role women play in the thriving RV industry, from manufacturing and sales to technical services and leadership roles.
