Ember Recreational Vehicles will be honored to receive the prestigious Havilah Beardsley Award for Young Entrepreneurship at the 9th Annual Elkhart County Business Legacy Hall of Fame Gala on Oct. 19, where owner and CEO Ashley Bontrager Lehman will honor (under 40 years old) was announced.
This award recognizes outstanding young entrepreneurs under the age of 40 who have demonstrated outstanding innovation, leadership and success in creating and growing new businesses. Lehman's leadership of Ember Recreational Vehicles, which he founded in 2021, has already left a significant footprint in the RV industry. Her vision for the company is centered around building a company that provides fulfilling employment opportunities for team members and creates innovative recreational vehicles with a focus on customer-centric features.
Lehman's entrepreneurial journey is deeply rooted in her family's heritage. She is one of the granddaughters of Jayco founders Lloyd and Bertha Bontrager. Her exposure to the RV industry at an early age formed her passion and knowledge of the industry. Over the years, Lehman has gained extensive experience in marketing, sales, and leadership, which culminated in the launch of Ember.
Ember RV has grown under her leadership and is known for innovative designs that serve a wide range of customers, from weekend campers to outdoor enthusiasts, and a focus on strong after-sales owner support. I did. Ember is focused on challenging the status quo and setting new standards with Lehman's commitment to craftsmanship and quality that has led the company to success in both the U.S. and Canadian markets.
In addition to his work at Ember, Lehman serves on the Board of Directors of the RV Industry Association (RVIA), where he contributes to the advancement of the RV industry through policy development and industry standards. Her involvement with RVIA demonstrates her dedication to shaping the future of the RV industry.
The Havilah Beardsley Award, named after one of Elkhart's most influential founders, celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit that has driven the local economy for generations. This award recognizes Lehman as a leader who continues this tradition and leaves his mark on Elkhart's history.
Upon learning of the award, Lehman expressed his gratitude as follows. This recognition reflects the incredible hard work and dedication of the entire Ember team. I look forward to continuing to work hard to positively impact the local community and the RV industry. ”
The Elkhart County Business Legacy Hall of Fame Gala, hosted by Junior Achievement & Lemonade Day in Elkhart County, is an annual event that recognizes local business leaders and engages more than 12,000 students in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and more. It serves as a large-scale fundraiser to support mental and career skills training. region.
To learn more about the latest innovations from Lehman and Ember Recreational Vehicles, visit www.EmberRV.com.
For more information about Junior Achievement & Lemonade Day and Business Legacy Gala in Elkhart County, visit JAElkhartCounty.org.
