At DM Vans, we’re not just building vans. We’re building something bigger: A more intentional, trustworthy, and real-life approach to vanlife. And now, the industry is taking notice.
We’re incredibly proud to share that our founder, Dave, was recently recognized as an RV Pro’s “40 Under 40” honoree, a prestigious award that highlights rising leaders, innovators, and trailblazers in the industry.
This award isn’t just about titles. It’s about the impact that the recipient creates. And for anyone who’s ever worked with Dave, traveled in one of our vans, or heard one of his many vanlife rants, you already know why this recognition matters.
Real-World Experience. Road-Tested Leadership.
DM Vans started like a lot of great ideas do: on the road.
Back in 2017, Dave was traveling in a van he built himself. He wasn’t trying to start a company, he was just chasing the kind of freedom and flexibility that only the open road can offer. But what he found instead was a gap in the market: a need for better-built vans, honest education, and a support team that actually cared.
Since then, DM Vans has grown into one of the most trusted camper van builders in the country with over 700+ vans delivered, thousands of customer road trips logged, and a community that keeps growing.
And Dave? He’s still right in the middle of it.
From personally handing off vans to working closely with our build team and new owners, Dave leads with presence, not ego. He’s the reason our company culture feels more like a campfire circle than a boardroom. And it shows in every van we build.
RV Pro’s ‘40 Under 40: Recognition Rooted in Values
RV Pro’s “40 Under 40” award recognizes leaders shaping the future of their industries. But for Dave, the future has always been clear:
“We don’t just sell something premium, we sell reliable and smart builds. Our job is to build vans that work, backed by a team that actually shows up for people. And that’s what we’ll keep doing, with or without awards.”
Still, it’s nice when people notice. This recognition is a celebration of the values that built DM Vans in the first place: reliability, intentional design, and a deep belief in doing things differently.
What This Means for You
When you buy a DM Van, you’re not buying from a big-box brand or faceless company. You’re buying from real people who’ve lived this lifestyle, broken down in remote places, cooked coffee in the dark, and figured all the mishaps out. You’re working with a team who’s been there, and with people like Dave, who turned all the learning experiences into something better.
This award is for him, and for every vanlifer who’s chosen to do life differently.