2026 RVIA Leadership Conference: Connections, Insights, and Momentum in Austin

A Packed Wednesday: Leadership, Innovation, and Big Ideas

Wednesday started with that pivoted trivia session before moving into one of the most impactful sessions of the conference—the Industry Leadership Panel. The panel featured:

• Toby O’Rourke, President & CEO of Kampgrounds of America
• Jeff Rodino, President of Patrick Industries
• Matt Wagner, CEO of Camping World

One of my biggest takeaways—and something I’m personally passionate about—was Matt Wagner’s repeated emphasis on the lack of standardized VIN decoding in the RV industry. It’s a gap that impacts everything from sales to service to inventory management, and solving it could significantly streamline operations across dealerships.  There was also some great takeaways from all three on what it takes to be a great leader.  All pointed it out in you have to first take care of your house by training and working with your current employees.  This then followed by continuing to push and mentor them and have clear paths to help them grow within each of the organizations. 

A Personal Highlight: Taking the Stage

After lunch, I had the opportunity to get on stage and introduce the keynote speaker, Mitch Mitchem, as Lightspeed was proud to sponsor the session.

Mitch delivered a compelling keynote focused on AI and amplifying human potential—reinforcing that technology should enhance, not replace, the people driving our industry forward.  Mitch did a great job on really talking about you get out what you put into AI.  It can do some amazing things, but it still can’t think like a human, but can be a great tool that can help leverage so many things inside a dealership. 

The day continued with Park Perspectives and then one of the most unique sessions of the conference: a workshop with Captain David Marquet. His leadership lessons from commanding a nuclear submarine were both practical and inspiring, particularly around empowering teams and redefining traditional leadership models.  What I found most interesting is that what made him so successful wasn’t just following what every other Captain has done.  He set is own course and through that based on his scores and sailor retention and it took the Sante Fe from one of the worst preforming ships in the Navy to one of the best. 

Texas-Sized Networking

Wednesday night wrapped up with a full Texas Reception—and it lived up to the name.

From custom-branded cowboy hats to creating your own BBQ rub, it was an experience that blended networking with a true taste of Texas culture. I had a great conversation with Josh Fonner from Airstream, which was another highlight from an already strong day of connections.  This continued for a few hours and was a great place to swap a few more business cards as well as continue some prior relationships. 

Closing Day: Emerging Leaders and Looking Ahead

Thursday began with the Emerging Leaders Coalition Graduation & Induction Ceremony—one of the most meaningful parts of the conference. I was honored to be selected as part of the 2026 class and to once again take the stage during the ceremony.

The final day continued with keynote sessions and a trends panel, delivering valuable insights into where the RV industry is headed.  While there are still potential headwinds going into 2026 there is still a fire from so many that OEMs, Distributors and dealers will continue to sell and outperform 2025. 

That afternoon, attendees had the option to participate in various activities. This year, I chose trap shooting—which turned out to be a great time (and I’m happy to report I hit more than I missed).  These activities allow us to humanize each other a little more and not as much business talk but more about experiences, where people live, and learning more about their families. 

With many attendees heading out that evening, the conference wrapped up with a more relaxed closing reception—providing one last opportunity to connect before heading home.