The Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association of Canada is asking its member dealers to submit their views to the Canadian government as part of a grass roots “consultation process,” which is in response to an ongoing tariff debate between Canada and the U.S. and is aimed at keeping business between the two countries on an even keel.
It’s all part of a continuing effort on the part of Canada’s RV industry, amid ongoing threats of tariffs and counter-tariffs, to remind Parliament of the significance of the RV trade within the country – much of which is fueled by U.S. imports at a time when the Government of Canada is issuing a notice of intent to implement a second round of tariffs.
Eleonore Hamm
“The RVDA of Canada is urging its members to participate in the Department of Finance Canada’s tariff consultation process, as the proposed tariffs on an additional $125 billion in U.S. imports could have significant implications for the RV industry,” RVDA of Canada President Eleonore Hamm stated on Monday (March 17). “Many RVs, parts and accessories are imported from the United States, and the introduction of new tariffs could lead to increased costs for dealers and consumers alike.
“Higher prices may reduce affordability and demand,” she added, “potentially impacting sales and the overall market. By voicing their concerns, dealers can help ensure that policymakers understand the potential consequences of these tariffs on the Canadian RV sector.
“It is crucial for our dealers to actively engage in this consultation process to advocate for fair trade policies that support a healthy and competitive industry,” said Hamm. “If these tariffs are implemented, businesses could face unexpected financial pressures, affecting profitability and customer accessibility.
“By responding to the consultation,” she said, “dealers have the opportunity to highlight the importance of cross-border trade, emphasize the economic contributions of the RV industry, and push for policies that minimize disruption. The RVDA of Canada strongly encourages its members to make their voices heard and help shape decisions that will impact their businesses and consumers alike.”
RV Technical Institute (RVTI) Director of Education William “Bill” S. Stewart, age 67, of Canton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 14, 2025, after a brief illness. He was born on May 27, 1957 in Canton to the late, William D.G. Stewart and Lucy (Stewart) Evans.
A Memorial Service will be held at 5 p.m., Wednesday, March 26 at Reed Funeral Home, 801 Pittsburg Ave. NW, North Canton, Ohio, 44720. Calling hours will be 3-5 p.m., Wednesday (March 26) prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to New Home Church (1639 Sperry Lane SE, Canton, OH 44709) where Bill participated in the music ministry.
Bill joined the RVTI staff in 2021 as its Director of Education. In addition to being a Level 4 Certified RV technician, Bill held certifications from Cummins, Grand Design, Heartland, and several others, according to the release announcing his hiring. He was master certified in both Mercury Marine and ASE automotive and light-duty trucks.
Bill’s responsibilities included the continued improvement of the RVTI signature curriculum and the development of additional curriculum to meet the needs of the RVTI customers.
“Bill’s passion is training and motivating people to achieve goals they did not think were possible,” the release continued. “He recognizes that a business leader’s most important role is to coach, train, and develop people’s skillsets, emphasizing that this can change their life. His goal at RV Technical Institute is to train technicians to better serve customers.”
“Throughout the years, people have helped me,” Bill said a the time of his RVTI appointment. “I’m just paying it forward.”
In his previous roles as a general manager, general sales manager, and parts and service director, Bill exhibited strong leadership skills and a proven track record of maximizing profitability in various types of business. Prior to joining RVTI, he previously had worked for General RV as the technician trainer where he set up training programs to promote the growth of RV technicians. Bill attended the University of Michigan and graduated from General Motors Institute with a degree in Electrical Engineering Technology.
RVTI Executive Director Curt Hemmeler told RVBusiness that Stewart reminded him of the “story of the little boy walking along the beach,” below, which was adapted from “The Star Thrower” by Loren Eiseley (1907 – 1977):
Once upon a time, there was an old man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing. He had a habit of walking on the beach every morning before he began his work. Early one morning, he was walking along the shore after a big storm had passed and found the vast beach littered with starfish as far as the eye could see, stretching in both directions.
Off in the distance, the old man noticed a small boy approaching. As the boy walked, he paused every so often and as he grew closer, the man could see that he was occasionally bending down to pick up an object and throw it into the sea. The boy came closer still and the man called out, “Good morning! May I ask what it is that you are doing?”
The young boy paused, looked up, and replied “Throwing starfish into the ocean. The tide has washed them up onto the beach and they can’t return to the sea by themselves,” the youth replied. “When the sun gets high, they will die, unless I throw them back into the water.”
The old man replied, “But there must be tens of thousands of starfish on this beach. I’m afraid you won’t really be able to make much of a difference.”
The boy bent down, picked up yet another starfish and threw it as far as he could into the ocean. Then he turned, smiled and said, “It made a difference to that one!”
“His passion and dedication to training EVERY tech he could is a testament to his passion and love of his job,” Hemmeler said. “He loved his decade at General RV, but he wanted to have a bigger impact than one company. He wanted to impact the industry. Bill as an individual always wanted the ball, whether it was kicking a field goal for the Chicago Bears, singing at Christmas in front of thousands at Carnegie Hall, or in the classroom in front of brand new techs. Bill was put on this earth to entertain and teach. He was the best!”
In a separate announcement, RVIA said Stewart was “a valued member of our team,” and that RVIA and RVTI are “exploring ways to honor his memory, and the lasting contributions Bill made to so many in the RV industry and beyond.”
“He was widely known for his kindness, dedication, and a positive energy he brought to every interaction,” RVIA officials stated. “His presence will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him. Bill carried much pride in giving of himself and teaching others, and his teaching impacted thousands of people and RV technicians over his more than 40 years in the RV industry. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Bill’s family, friends, and everyone who is feeling this loss.
RV Dealers Association President Phil Ingrassia also expressed his condolences on behalf of the association: “RVDA sends condolences to Bill’s family and many friends throughout the industry. Bill was passionate about the service side of the RV business and was dedicated to providing training, encouragement, and support to RVTI students and certified technicians.”
According to his obituary published by Reed Funeral Home, Bill dedicated over 40 years of his life to the automotive and RV industry, traveling across the country to train RV technicians. His passion for his work was matched only by his love for singing at church and spending quality time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. Known affectionately as “Dr. Bill,” he was always ready to lend a hand, whether it was fixing a car or tackling home maintenance issues. His generous spirit and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Bill is survived by his wife, Peggy; his children, Steven (Tracie), Patrick (Lanie), and Megan (A.J.); his grandchildren, Aiden, Nathan, Brynne, Tyler, Emmy and Brody; his sisters, Ginger Muller (Bob) and Darlamarrie Dorsey (Rob); his brother- and sister-in-law David and Tami Allan, along with many cherished family, friends and work colleagues.
EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is the latest list of RV and RV-related recalls compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Per strict NHTSA protocols, manufacturers will next notify its dealer partners of the recall notice. Each notice will include details of the affected vehicles as well as the appropriate remedy.
Airstream Inc. is recalling 648 2021-2025 Airstream Classic 33′, 2024-2025 Classic 30′, and 2025 Classic 28′ travel trailers. The sofa footrest switch may have underrated wiring, which can allow the wiring to overheat. Dealers will install a reverse relay on the sofa switch assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 4. Owners may contact Airstream customer service at 1-877-596-6505 or 1-937-596-6111, ext. 7401 or 7411.
Jayco Inc. is recalling 15 2024 Entegra Condor, Jayco Granite Ridge, 2025 Jayco Alante SE, Redhawk SE, and Entegra Odyssey SE motorhomes. The Occupant and Cargo Carrying Capacity (OCCC) on the Federal label may be incorrect and allow the vehicle to be overloaded. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 120, “Wheels and Rims – other than passenger cars.” Jayco will mail new labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 4. Owners may contact Jayco customer service at 1-800-283-8267. Jayco’s number for this recall is 9903622.
Forest River Inc. is recalling 20 2025 Aurora ART26BHS travel trailers. The electrical connector for the air conditioner may have strands of wiring exposed, which can cause electrical arcing. Dealers will replace the electrical connector, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 16. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-541-995-3447. Forest River’s number for this recall is 64-1902.
Keystone RV Company is recalling 873 2025 Keystone Kodiak, Colorado 260RBC, 270BHC, 280BHC, and Sunset travel trailers. The 7-way cord and 12-volt distribution box were wired incorrectly, resulting in wiring with insufficient surge protection. Dealers will repair the wiring, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 28. Owners may contact Keystone customer service at 866-425-4369. Keystone’s number for this recall is 25-463.
LAKE OSWEGO, Ore. – Yakima, the trusted leader in outdoor cargo and recreation solutions that’s made hauling adventure gear easier for 45 years, announced its complete Spring ‘25 product line. The 2025 collection delivers innovative solutions for every adventure, from enhanced bike racks to expanded cargo options and revolutionary camping solutions, according to a company release.
“At Yakima, we don’t just want to carry your gear, we want to carry your trust,” said Garrett Barnum, director of Category Management at Yakima. “Our 2025 lineup represents our continued commitment to over-delivering on safety, support, and satisfaction while adding a healthy dose of innovation to help our customers reach new heights in their outdoor pursuits.”
The updated StageTwo platform hitch bike rack leads the charge with significant enhancements to its already stellar reputation. The new V-shaped tray design makes loading bikes a breeze, especially when paired with the RampUp accessory, which now stores right on the rack. Whether you’re hauling traditional bikes or e-bikes, the StageTwo’s increased weight capacity (up to 70 lbs per bike for 2″ hitches) and expanded wheelbase compatibility (30″ to 52″) ensure your two-wheeled companions travel first class.
Yakima’s cargo box lineup will also expand this spring with new sizes in the SkyBox NX and CBX collections. The SkyBox NX Skinny offers a slim 26″ profile perfect for urban adventurers or those looking to keep space on their rack for a bike or kayak, while the SkyBox NX XXL provides a cavernous 22 cubic feet of space for gear-heavy expeditions. The CBX line similarly grows with the introduction of the CBX LG and XXL models, featuring a premium automotive finish that turns heads while putting in the miles.
SkyPeak HD
The all-new SkyPeak HD hardshell rooftop tent transforms any vehicle into a base camp extraordinaire. This four-season home-away-from-home features three-sided access, dimmable USB-powered lighting, and strong T-slot mounting points for up to 300 pounds of additional gear. A full suite of accessories, including an annex room and crossbar kit, makes the SkyPeak HD the Swiss Army knife of rooftop tents. Not to be outdone, SkyPeak’s softshell brother, SkyRise, has been completely redesigned. The SkyRise HD is built tough for all conditions, with durable Ripstop polyester fabric and a waterproof coating. The SkyRise SL is light, strong, and ready for any journey. Both tents feature quick deployment, comfy memory foam mattresses, and panoramic views. All new Yakima tents also feature our new custom barefoot comfortable ladders, and our new low-profile tent clamps.
OverNOut
The OverNOut awning family welcomes two new members: the OverNOut 180 and 270 XL. With up to 120 square feet of coverage and optional full wall kits, these awnings ensure mother nature never rains on your parade. Full Wall Kits are available for the new styles.
Finally, the new LowRider trailer rounds out the 2025 lineup, offering a purpose-built solution ideal for the fishing community but perfect for paddlesports enthusiasts as well. With adjustable crossbar positions, fully submersible LED lighting, an available upgrade to alloy wheels and a 750-pound capacity, the LowRider makes transporting kayaks and canoes as smooth as glass on a calm lake.
In another exciting step for the brand in 2025, Yakima is set to significantly expand product availability – including tents, awnings and regionally specific offerings by vehicle type – globally, expanding its market presence across Europe and Australasia. This builds upon Yakima’s existing international distribution network and strengthens its regional footprint with facilities in key markets such as Brendale, AU, and its European distribution center. Yakima strategically enhances product accessibility for outdoor enthusiasts worldwide through local dealer networks and expanded international shipping capabilities, ensuring customers across the globe have access to their high-quality adventure solutions.
The complete 2025 Yakima product line is now available through authorized Yakima dealers and at Yakima.com, with the exception of SkyPeak HD (early April). For more information about Yakima’s products and legacy of innovation, visit www.yakima.com.
About Yakima
Based in the Pacific NW, Yakima Products Inc. has been a pioneer of cargo and gear management solutions since 1979. We connect people with their passions to bring them closer to nature with our innovative, rugged and dependable products. Yakima Products, Inc. is headquartered outside of Portland, Oregon. For more information about Yakima products, visityakima.com.
AVON LAKE, Ohio — Design Engineering Inc., a worldwide leader in premium innovative heat & sound control solutions, announced the release of Boom Mat Liquid Brush-On Damping Material (Part #50219 – available Q1 2025). Now available in a convenient liquid form, this popular sound-damping solution offers high quality, effective noise and vibration reduction as other Boom Mat products but is designed to reach tight areas where traditional sheet material can’t be applied, according to a company release.
Ideal for spot protection, Boom Mat Liquid Brush-On is perfect for addressing squeaks, rattles, and unwanted noise in both interior and exterior applications. Perfect for trunk and cab corners as well as coating fender wells to protect against rock chips and dings. The formula is ready to paint in just six hours, making it a practical solution for quick and effective soundproofing projects. Packaged in a 1-liter can, it provides ample coverage for targeted applications on automotive and industrial surfaces.
“Boom Mat Liquid Brush-On is the answer for customers who need the flexibility to tackle hard-to-reach areas that traditional sheet materials can’t cover,” said Mike Buca, Brand Manager at Design Engineering Inc. “This new liquid option makes it easier than ever to reduce noise and improve comfort, all with the trusted effectiveness Boom Mat products are known for.”
Boom Mat Liquid Brush On joins a family of Boom Mat products that are designed to manage heat and dampen sound in the interior of your vehicle. The Boom Mat family of products includes Boom Mat Damping Material, Under Carpet Light Insulation, Under Carpet Noise Barrier, D-Mat Insulation, Speaker Baffles and Custom Cut Interior Heat & Sound Control Kits. For more information about the Boom Mat line and other Design Engineering Inc. products, visit www.designengineering.com or contact [email protected]
About Design Engineering Inc.
For 30 years, Design Engineering Inc. has been at the forefront of innovative thermal and sound control solutions, helping to enhance vehicle performance, comfort, and safety. With a comprehensive range of products designed to tackle heat and noise, DEI continues to lead the way in automotive, powersports, RV, and industrial innovation.
TROY, Mich. – Champion Homes, Inc. (NYSE: SKY) announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Mary B. Fedewa as a new independent director, effective immediately. With the addition of Fedewa, the Champion Homes Board now comprises eight directors, seven of whom are independent, according to a release.
Fedewa is an accomplished leader in the real estate industry with more than 30 years of experience in finance and capital markets, the release continued. She co-founded STORE Capital, a real estate investment trust that invests in Single Tenant Operational Real Estate, and serves as its president and chief executive officer and as a member of its Board of Directors. She formed and led STORE Capital’s acquisitions group and has been responsible for leading all operations, as well as servicing, underwriting, portfolio management, information technology and real estate closing areas. Fedewa previously served as a Managing Director of Acquisitions at Spirit Finance Corporation and, before that, she held various leadership positions within GE Capital.
“Mary is a highly respected leader who brings a deep understanding of the homebuilding and development market, which is vital to Champion Homes,” said Tawn Kelley, chair of the Champion Homes Nominating & Governance Committee. “We look forward to benefiting from Mary’s unique financial and operational expertise as the Company optimizes its differentiated strategy and accelerates on the next phase of growth through the evolving housing environment.”
“Champion Homes and its talented team have built a strong reputation and a great portfolio of brands and products – I couldn’t be more excited to join the Board at this time,” said Fedewa. “There are significant opportunities ahead to drive long-term growth through investments in technology and product innovation. I look forward to drawing on my experiences with the Board and management team as we seek to deliver sustained value for shareholders.”
About Champion Homes, Inc.
Champion Homes, Inc. (NYSE: SKY) is a leading producer of factory-built housing in North America and employs approximately 9,000 people. With more than 70 years of homebuilding experience and 48 manufacturing facilities throughout the United States and western Canada, Champion Homes is well positioned with an innovative portfolio of manufactured and modular homes, ADUs, park-models and modular buildings for the single-family, multi-family, and hospitality sectors.
In addition to its core home building business, Champion Homes provides construction services to install and set-up factory-built homes, operates a factory-direct retail business with 72 retail locations across the United States, and operates Star Fleet Trucking, providing transportation services to the manufactured housing and other industries from several dispatch locations across the United States.
Champion Homes builds homes under some of the most well-known brand names in the factory-built housing industry including Skyline Homes, Champion Homes, Genesis Homes, Regional Homes, Athens Park Models, Dutch Housing, Atlantic Homes, Excel Homes, Homes of Merit, New Era, Redman Homes, ScotBilt Homes, Shore Park, Silvercrest, Titan Homes in the U.S. and Moduline and SRI Homes in western Canada.
TACOMA, Wash. – Sobel University is extending the enrollment deadline for its Virtual Comprehensive Sales Course to March 28 to accommodate the increased hiring taking place at dealerships nationwide. The course, scheduled for March 31 to April 4, is designed to equip new and experienced sales professionals with the skills they need to succeed in today’s competitive RV market.
With dealerships expanding their teams to get ready for the season, proper training is more important than ever.
“How well your company works together will have a big impact on your results this summer, but the foundation is skills, and that comes from proper training. Our virtual training programs ensure that new salespeople hit the ground running with the knowledge and strategies they need to be successful,” said Jered Sobel, president of Sobel University. “By extending the enrollment deadline, we’re giving dealerships the opportunity to provide their new hires with top-tier training right from the start.”
Sobel University has been a leader in online sales education for more than 15 years, providing effective virtual training that helps professionals develop strong foundations and drive sales growth from day one.
Dealerships and individuals are encouraged to take advantage of this extension and register by March 28 to secure a spot in the program.
To learn more about Sobel University visit sobeluniversity.com or call 253-565-2577 to schedule a no-cost consultation with Mr. Jered Sobel to find the best program for your team.
About Sobel University
Sobel University has been a leader in RV sales education for over 30 years, providing comprehensive training programs that empower professionals to achieve outstanding results. Through a combination of in-depth curriculum and expert instruction, Sobel University continues to set the standard for excellence in sales education.
The Half a Mind Podcast has released a compelling new episode featuring an exclusive interview with Carl Borkholder, the visionary founder of Gen-Y Hitch. This episode delves into Carl’s remarkable journey from leaving formal education after the eighth grade to revolutionizing the towing industry with his innovative hitch designs, according to a press release.
In this insightful conversation, Carl shares his experiences transitioning from construction work to establishing a successful lawn care business, which eventually led to the inception of Gen-Y Hitch. Listeners are offered a candid look at the challenges he faced, the risks he embraced, and the relentless determination that fueled his success. His story exemplifies the essence of entrepreneurial spirit and the pursuit of the American Dream.
Gen-Y Hitch, founded in 2011, has become synonymous with durability and innovation in the towing industry. Carl’s commitment to quality and his hands-on approach have positioned the company as a leader in the market, offering products that cater to both commercial and recreational towing needs..
This episode is a must-listen for industry professionals seeking inspiration and insights into building a business from the ground up. Carl’s narrative underscores the importance of resilience, innovation, and a customer-centric approach in achieving long-term success.
The episode is available now on all major podcast platforms. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the Half a Mind Podcast for more stories that inspire and inform.
COSTA MESA, Calif. – The first-ever Overland Expo SoCal debuted March 15-16 at the OC Fair and Event Center in Costa Mesa, Calif., joining the four other Overland Expo events held across the nation each year. Other stops this year include Overland Expo West (May 16-18 in Flagstaff, Ariz.), Overland Expo PNW (June 27-29 in Redmond, Ore.), Overland Expo MTN West (Aug. 22-24 in Loveland, Colo.), and Overland Expo East (Oct. 3-5 in Arrington, Va.).
Overland Expo SoCal featured more than 300 top-tier gear exhibitors, 50 expert instructors, and over 100 hours of hands-on education, live demonstrations and workshops tailored to all experience levels.
Founded in 2009, Overland Expo is the world’s premier event series for do-it-yourself adventure travel enthusiasts. Hundreds of exhibitors of adventure travel equipment, camping gear, bikes, vehicles, and services convene at every Overland Expo event. Each Expo hosts hundreds of session-hours of classes, including for off-road driving techniques, adventure motorcycling, inspirational programs, roundtable discussions, demonstrations, as well as the Overland Film Festival. Overland Expo is owned and produced by Emerald.
