Trailblazing Through Terrain and Time: Kati allain-johnson's RV Industry Odyssey
“In the beginning, I thought there's no way I'm going to do what dad does. But, I actually ended up gravitating to what my dad and my grandfather did.”
Kati's venture into the service realm led her to Okanagan College—a turning point where dedicated teachers unearthed her latent skills. The training not only equipped her with technical prowess but also instilled the confidence from service management to parts ordering to navigate the multifaceted aspects of their family-run operation.
"I have to go RVing almost every weekend with my three kids. That's how I get through the week and remind myself that everybody's trying to get to where I'm getting, and that's camping or to their cottage or to their trailer," Kati shares, seamlessly blending her personal affinity for the RV lifestyle with her professional commitments.
Meet Kati Allain-Johnson, the dynamic General Manager steering the ship at Peterborough RV Center in Ontario. A compelling saga rooted in a family legacy dating back to 1956 unfolds as Kati shares the triumphs and tribulations within their tight-knit, multi-generational team.
"In the beginning, I thought there's no way I'm going to do what dad does. But, I actually ended up gravitating to what my dad and my grandfather did. It's been a family business since 1956," Kati reveals, encapsulating her unexpected but passionate journey back to Peterborough RV.
Diving into the intricacies of family-run RV parts and service businesses, Kati reflects on the delicate balance between personal and professional life. She emphasizes the strength drawn from acknowledging and appreciating each team member. Her personal struggle to carve out an identity beyond familial ties resonates with the broader challenge faced by technicians and business operators seeking acknowledgement and support.
However, Kati sheds light on the challenges faced by women in the RV service industry, emphasizing the importance of a supportive environment and the need for more female representation. Her advocacy extends to supporting women's trades programs, creating a nurturing space for women to build confidence and thrive in the traditionally male-dominated RV industry.
Kati's personal struggle with self-doubt echoes broader statistics, revealing that nearly 80% of women grapple with low self-esteem. Her advice to women resonates: "Don't let prejudice or naysayers take over. Just do it. Build the confidence, get yourself there, whatever way that is, but definitely get yourself to the training courses."
Despite her journey, recruitment hurdles persist due to the undervaluation of the RV technician trade in Ontario. Kati remains hopeful, aiming to raise awareness, especially about the red seal certified trade. She anticipates positive change with the upcoming program at Fleming College.
"I think I would love to have the opportunity to get in front of students, even at the elementary level, to talk to kids to make them realize that skilled trades are important," Kati passionately expresses, highlighting the need for early exposure to trades.
Looking ahead, Kati forecasts a surge in retirees adopting the RV lifestyle, driving a demand for more talents, especially in off-grid living. Her personal journey, woven with tales of self-doubt and triumphs, paints a compelling narrative, signalling the RV industry's readiness to welcome and empower more women.
1) Forbes Coaches Council. "Three Beliefs About Confidence That Might Be Holding You Back As A Woman In Business." Forbes, 8 March 2022, https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2022/03/08/three-beliefs-about-confidence-that-might-be-holding-you-back-as-a-woman-in-business/?sh=150eacf24ef9.