2026 RV PRO RVeterans Honoree Ron Brown

Some people stay in their lane. Ron Brown never has.

As engineering manager at Forest River Plant 410, Ron’s fingerprints are everywhere, from engineering prints and vault systems to process communication, dealership support and product innovation. But those around him say what truly sets Ron apart is not what he does, but his willingness to do it.

Ron attended Dale Carnegie as a student and a coach and brought those leadership lessons into the workplace. He is known throughout Forest River as the guy who simply says “yes” when something needs to be done.

Coworkers say he will pitch in wherever he is needed, whether that is unloading supplier shipments, assisting sales and customer service teams or supporting other plants within the division. He helps lead retail factory tours, lead dealership training and works to improve communication throughout the plant. He has even created print packs for all group leaders.

That can-do mindset, combined with decades of experience and forward-thinking engineering expertise, has transformed team dynamics and innovation at Plant 410.

Ron played a key role in developing and filing a patent tied to Forest River’s 7-foot ceiling height innovation and “One Level Living” River Ranch floorplans. He is respected for his detailed prints and ability to think ahead, which often solves problems before they arise.

But perhaps his greatest impact is the culture he helped create. Coworkers describe him as approachable, humble and endlessly supportive. Ron is a Gold Star employee who stays late, mentors employees, teaches CAD skills and always puts the team first. Alongside Plant Manager Matt Jess, Ron has helped build a stronger, more collaborative culture at Plant 410.

Outside of work, he is a devoted father and an accomplished guitarist. He is a lifelong music lover with a guitar collection of over 100 instruments, each with its own story.

What it means to Ron to work in the RV industry this long:

After designing RVs for over 40 years, I have seen a true evolution of the products being made for the end consumer. There is never a dull moment when developing product in such a fast-paced industry. I have learned a lot about many different aspects of the RV industry by being able to work with many different groups of people from suppliers, sales, production, purchasing, service/warranty, dealers, all the way to the end consumer. This has allowed me a very unique perspective on being able to influence the industry through my designs. It has been very rewarding to have been able to be to contribute my ideas to directly influence the products we build to help to improve the end consumers’ experience when using their RV. There are a lot of great people in this industry, and I am blessed to have been able to have worked with as many of them as I have over the years.

Ron’s advice for younger people just starting their careers:

As I said before, this is a very fast-paced industry; you need to be able to roll with the punches and make the best out of every situation that is thrown at you. Don’t be afraid to challenge status quo. Sometimes change can be met with resistance; if you are confident that the change makes sense and would improve either the product or the end users’ experience, then keep pushing for that change. Believe in yourself.

For more 2026 RVeterans honorees, click here.