Niagara on the Lake, Ontario – The Ontario RV Dealers Association (ORVDA) has presented Jamie Russell, of JR’s Mobile Service, Kingston, Ontario, the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award.
Jamie, well known throughout Canada as a major contributor to the RV Education programs now in place at community colleges and RV service training facilities, was celebrated for his decades of selfless dedication to the RV industry.
In her presentation of the award, Natalie Conway, Executive Director of ORVDA, had the following remarks in tribute to Jamie’s immense contribution to the industry.
“It is my honor tonight to present the ORVDA Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes an individual who has made an extraordinary and lasting impact on our industry. This award is not just about celebrating longevity in the RV business but also about honoring a lifetime of contributions that have fundamentally shaped and advanced our community.
The recipient of this award has dedicated decades to improving standards across the industry, particularly in the development of RV technician training in Ontario, ensuring that dealerships have access to a pipeline of skilled trade professionals. His dedication, leadership, and innovation have helped move our industry forward, and we are here to celebrate the incredible legacy he has built.
His journey in the RV industry began long before he founded JR’s Mobile RV Service in 1998. His hands-on experience started in 1971 at Rideau Acres Campground, a family-owned business where he gained expertise in mechanical repairs, building construction, and customer service. After graduating from St. Lawrence College with a degree in Small Engine Marine Mechanics in 1995, he honed his skills further as a heavy equipment operator. His commitment to education led him to collaborate with the Ministry of Skills and Development, leading the way for Ontario’s only RV technician apprenticeship program, which operated from 2002-2009. His experience with writing ministry-approved curriculum and instructing this apprenticeship program has provided us with a strong foundation as we move towards reinstating a similar initiative.
He is also a widely recognized industry expert and host of our consumer seminars at RV shows across the province, educating the public about RV maintenance and best practices. These efforts enhance consumer knowledge and strengthen the credibility of the RV industry, which also underscores the importance of skilled technicians.
As a long-time member in good standing of the (ORVDA), he has been a cornerstone of our organization. I’ve had the privilege of observing his exceptional contributions firsthand, not only on the provincial ORVDA education committee, but the RVDA of Canada National Education Committee for over a decade. Navigating the complexities of ministry consultations and overcoming red tape is a challenging task, yet he has done so with determination and skill. He knows when to pivot, always with the best interests of the association in mind.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, he is also a devoted husband to his wonderful wife Kathy and a proud grandfather. Together, they enjoy their winters in sunny Florida, with friends and family, and sometimes that includes trips to Disney world with their grandchildren.
I can’t express enough how grateful I am on behalf of the ORVDA for your unwavering support. We are incredibly fortunate to have such an expert guiding us, and I must say, as long as I’m here, retirement is not an option!
Please join me in presenting the ORVDA’s Lifetime Achievement Award to Jamie Russell. Thank you, Jamie, for everything you do. You inspire us!”
Jamie Russell is a frequent contributor to RV Lifestyle Magazine – for a listing of his online articles, please follow this link:
