From Alaska to RV Technician | How 18-Year-Old Elias Cordell Trained at the NRVTA

From Alaska to RV Technician | How 18-Year-Old Elias Cordell Trained at the NRVTA

For Elias Cordell, an 18-year-old from Alaska, joining the family business wasn’t just a career choice — it was a legacy. Born and raised in the Last Frontier, Elias grew up around RVs through his family’s company, Camper Valley, a dealership that has served Alaskans for years. But when it came time to take on more responsibility, he knew he needed more than hands-on experience — he needed professional training. That’s what led him over 3,000 miles south to the National RV Training Academy (NRVTA) in Athens, Texas.

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Learning the Fundamentals

Elias enrolled in NRVTA’s RV Fundamentals Course, a one-week intensive program that teaches the essential systems found in every RV — electrical, water, propane, and appliances. Like most students, he felt overwhelmed at first. “It was a lot of information,” he said, “but by the end of the week, I felt more confident going into the other classes.”

The Fundamentals course serves as the foundation for all future training. It gives students the ability to identify and troubleshoot common issues, perform basic maintenance, and understand how different systems interact. NRVTA’s experienced instructors use a hands-on approach, encouraging students to learn by doing — testing components, running diagnostics, and repairing actual equipment.

“It’s not just reading a manual,” Elias explained. “You get to open things up, see how they work, and understand what’s really happening inside.”

That real-world experience helped him build confidence quickly. Now, as he prepares to return home to Alaska, Elias plans to share what he’s learned with the other technicians at Camper Valley. “I want to give some of the new techs information and keep improving myself so that by the time I get older, I can be an amazing technician,” he said.

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About the National RV Training Academy

The National RV Training Academy (NRVTA) is the largest hands-on RV training facility in the United States. Located on a 37-acre campus in Athens, Texas, the school attracts students from all over the country — from young adults like Elias to retirees starting second careers.

At NRVTA, students can live on-site in their own RVs while they train, creating an immersive experience where education and lifestyle meet. The academy offers everything from introductory courses for RV owners to advanced certification programs for those who want to become certified RV technicians or RV inspectors.

Graduates earn certifications through the RV Technician Association of America (RVTAA) or the National RV Inspectors Association (NRVIA), both respected organizations that help professionals launch or grow successful businesses in the RV service industry.

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A Growing Career with Endless Possibilities

The RV industry is booming, with over 11 million RV owners across the U.S. and a rising demand for trained service professionals. Becoming a certified RV technician or inspector opens the door to flexible, high-demand careers that can fit any lifestyle.

Technicians like Elias can work for dealerships, manufacturers, or start their own mobile RV repair businesses, traveling the country while earning an income. Inspectors, meanwhile, help buyers make informed decisions when purchasing RVs, ensuring they’re getting safe and reliable vehicles.

For those who love travel, hands-on work, and the freedom to set their own schedule, it’s an ideal path. The combination of technical skill and lifestyle flexibility makes NRVTA graduates some of the most sought-after professionals in the industry.

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A Bright Future Ahead

Elias’s journey from Alaska to Texas is proof that age doesn’t define success — determination does. His willingness to leave home, learn from the best, and bring that knowledge back to his family’s business shows the power of investing in education.

“I’m really thankful for this opportunity,” Elias said. “NRVTA gave me the confidence to keep growing and improving.”

With his new skills, Elias will not only strengthen Camper Valley’s service department but also carry on his family’s commitment to helping RV owners stay safe and confident on the road.

👉 Learn More: https://nrvta.com
📞 Call: (903) 386-0444
📧 Email: info@nrvta.com