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The Recreation Vehicle Service Training (RVST) Council is preparing to deliver the successful satellite-delivered RV Service Technician Training program to as many as 200 RV dealerships beginning September 18, 2002. More than 500 service technicians from 54 dealerships throughout the U.S. and Canada participated in the pilot curriculum that ended in July.

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Broadcast on Wednesday nights from 4:30-6:00 p.m., the 40-week, 60-hour curriculum is delivered via satellite transmission from the University of Florida to participating dealerships where an unlimited number of personnel can take advantage of the  training. Not only do dealers save on travel, lodging and down time expenses, they're also able to train employees that otherwise may not have had the opportunity.

"We encourage everyone from our service technicians, service writers and parts personnel to our sales force to participate in the training courses," said Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association Chairman of the Board Craig Jensen, of Blaine Jensen and Sons in Kaysville, Utah. "Not only are our service technicians working more efficiently, but our service writers and other personnel have a better understanding of the product and can perform their jobs with increased confidence and all of that transmits directly to the customer. We believe it has already made a positive impact on our customer satisfaction."

Dealers wishing to downlink the classes are required to pay a $1,300 enrollment fee and purchase a commercial satellite system (Direct TV and Dish Network systems are not compatible). The total cost to the dealer, excluding the satellite dish, equates to $21.67 per hour regardless of the number of technicians participating at the dealership.

"This method of service technician training is a win-win for the industry," said RVST Council Chairman Mel Adams, president and CEO of Airxcel, Inc. "Dealers are now able to maximize their continuing education dollars while enhancing their customer satisfaction -- and satisfied consumers are a plus for the entire RV industry."

The satellite-delivered RV Service Technician Training program utilizes the textbooks and course materials from the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA). Recognized as the universal standard for the RV industry, RVIA courses cover: Introduction to RV Service; Air Conditioning; Brakes, Suspension and Towing Systems; Basic Electricity; Electrical Systems; Generators; Heating Systems; LP Gas Systems; Plumbing Systems; Pre-Delivery Inspection; Preventive Maintenance; Ranges and Cooktops; Refrigerators; Welding; and Water Heaters.

The satellite-delivered program is made possible through a partnership with the Florida RV Trade Association and the University of Florida. For more information about the program or to enroll, contact RVIA's Standards and Education Department at 703/620-6003, ext.355.