The future of the RV industry depends on the cultivation of strong, creative and hardworking women who will become tomorrow’s leaders in the industry. In recognition of this, the RV Women’s Alliance (RVWA) is presenting the Leader of Tomorrow Award during this week’s Educational Symposium. The RV Women’s Alliance Leader of Tomorrow Award recognizes women who are making a big impact on the RV industry during the beginning stages of her career. Promoting the achievements of the up-and-comers in the industry, the Leader of Tomorrow Award is presented annually to an RV Women’s Alliance individual member.
“These women are the future of the RV industry,” said RV Women’s Board Member and Award Taskforce Chair Monika Geraci. “Their passion, innovation and commitment to excellence are truly inspiring. The RV Women’s Alliance is proud to recognize their achievements and support their journey to becoming tomorrow’s leaders.”
After careful review of many applications, the award selection committee has narrowed down the award nominations to the following seven finalists.
Alicia Gewinner, in her short time in the RV industry, has revolutionized marketing and advertising for RV dealerships. She brings a wealth of experience and a global agency mindset to her role, resulting in record website traffic, increased positive reviews and successful partnerships with major RV manufacturers. Alicia’s leadership is marked by innovation, as seen in the “Come Home With a Story” campaign, and a commitment to empowering her team, particularly women. She actively supports the RV Women’s Alliance, fostering opportunities for women in the industry. Alicia’s dedication and passion exemplify the values of a family-owned company, making her a true asset to General RV and the RV industry as a whole.
Aimee Sheckler, a recent Iowa State graduate, has quickly made her mark at Winnebago. Her design background and passion for the outdoors seamlessly translated into innovative RV product designs, earning her a patent early in her career. Aimee actively engages with customers, understanding their needs and translating those insights into the next generation of products. She is also an expert on the emerging market of solo female RVers. Aimee’s passion, leadership skills and forward-thinking approach position her as a future leader and changemaker in the RV industry.
Analli is a dedicated and impactful leader who fosters an inclusive environment. She’s highly reliable and strategically focused on overall business success. Her bilingual skills greatly enhance workplace culture, enabling her to lead initiatives like Hispanic Heritage celebrations and facilitate understanding. Analli is also instrumental in employee well-being, overseeing a new clinic and collaborating with healthcare professionals to improve the physical work environment. As a member of the Women’s Inclusion Network leadership team, she actively supports women’s professional development and advocates for greater female representation in leadership. Analli’s ability to listen, problem-solve and identify skill gaps makes her a valuable asset who consistently contributes to a positive and successful workplace.
April Clark is a highly capable and versatile leader at Alliance RV. She has excelled in various roles, including leading plant tours, managing sales, supporting customer programs and spearheading major events. Her dedication and achievements inspire women, demonstrating their ability to excel in any area. April’s leadership and positive energy create a motivating work environment, proving that women can thrive in demanding roles and break gender barriers in the industry.
Becky Sheats has made a significant impact at Thetford in her two years with the company. She has elevated customer service through her professionalism and attentiveness to warranty needs. Internally, she fosters a positive work environment and actively supports new female employees. Becky’s commitment to inclusivity was demonstrated in her organization of the RV Women’s Alliance campout. Her dedication, positive attitude and leadership qualities make her a valuable asset to Thetford and a promising figure in the RV industry.
Lindsey has significantly impacted the RV industry in her two years at Grand Design RV. She champions women through leadership in the Women’s Inclusion Network, community involvement, and supporting RVWA initiatives. During an industry downturn, Lindsey played a crucial role in assisting displaced employees and launched apprenticeship and internship programs. She has also spearheaded impactful projects such as the middle school manufacturing day and job fair representation. Lindsey’s primary focus is team member development, promoting company values and creating a more flexible work environment. Her dedication and involvement in RVWA highlight her commitment to advancing women in the RV industry.
Stacey Curtis has made a significant impact at General RV despite her short tenure. She has enhanced onboarding programs, trained new managers and contributed to successful store openings. Stacey prioritizes building a positive and collaborative work culture, resulting in higher employee engagement and reduced turnover. Her proactive approach, including numerous store visits, demonstrates a commitment to understanding and addressing team member needs. Stacey’s efforts extend beyond the company, fostering connections and knowledge sharing within the RV industry. Her focus on onboarding, team-building and culture sets a strong foundation for long-term success at General RV.
The awards ceremony will take place this Thursday, Oct. 17 at The Westin North Shore in Chicago, Illinois.
