The Fleet Success Show

“Fleet is the most under-resourced industry in the world — and yet, nothing happens without a fleet.” – Marc Canton

From the comeback of in-person networking events to modernized certification programs, Bill shares how NAFA is driving change at the national and local levels. They discuss how the technician shortage, EV mandates, and rapid tech evolution are reshaping the landscape — and how NAFA is preparing fleet professionals to meet these challenges head-on.

Whether you're new to fleet or a seasoned pro, this episode is a rallying cry to get involved, stay educated, and build your network. It’s a must-listen for anyone who cares about the future of fleet.

• NAFA’s Local Networking Revamp: Over 100 in-person meetups in 2023, reviving community post-COVID.
   
• Modernized Education: New online Fleet 101 courses and certification programs with real interactivity and adult-learning principles.
   
• Job Task Analysis: Ongoing commitment to updating NAFA's certification based on real fleet roles and industry shifts.
   
• Technician Support: Advocacy for better technician pay, recognition programs, and career path visibility.
   
• Government Advocacy: Expanded state-level involvement to support common-sense legislation for fleet professionals.
   
• Fleet as an Underdog: Why fleet often operates behind the scenes, and how initiatives like the 100 Best Fleets bring overdue recognition.
   

As Head of Product & Consulting at RTA, Marc helps fleets modernize their operations with innovative strategies and the right software tools. He's a leading voice in the industry and co-host of The Fleet Success Show, bringing deep passion and energy to every conversation about fleet excellence.

Bill is the CEO of NAFA, the largest and most influential fleet management association in North America. With a background in leading associations across various sectors, he brings a unique, holistic view to fleet challenges and is laser-focused on education, collaboration, and advocacy.

#FleetManagement #FleetMaintenance #FleetSuccess #NAFA #FleetEducation #TechnicianShortage #FleetAdvocacy #FleetLeadership #GovernmentFleetManagement #FleetMaintenanceSoftware

Looking to take the next step to fleet success? Start by requesting your free copy of The Fleet Success Playbook. Written by fleet professionals for fleet professionals, the Playbook breaks down the four key pillars of fleet success, and gives you the tools you need to build a truly great fleet.

Request your free (yes, really, free!) copy here: https://rtafleet.com/resources/fleet-success-playbook?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=podcast

“No one goes to school for fleet management—so if you’re in this role, you’re already on an unconventional journey. The only question is: what are you doing to bridge the gap?”

Drawing on 35+ years of experience and 450+ consulting engagements across North America, Tony shares hard-earned insights into the two major career paths that land someone in a fleet manager seat—and more importantly, the gaps each path leaves behind. Whether you're lacking technical knowledge or strategic business management experience, this episode offers concrete solutions to help you grow into the leader your fleet needs.

You'll walk away with actionable ideas—from leveraging CAFM/CPFP certifications to local networking, intentional culture, and even why shadowing your techs might be the best crash course you could ask for.

• Two Paths, Two Gaps: Shop techs lack management skills; outside hires lack fleet-specific knowledge.
• CAFM and CPFP: Essential certifications to build business acumen and operational awareness.
• Intentional Culture: Not fluff—an actual strategy for leading people and improving performance.
• Invest in Yourself: Books, courses, conferences—no excuses. Leadership is a skill, not a title.
• The Legacy Factor: Real leadership is measured by how many leaders you develop.

Josh Turley
CEO of RTA: The Fleet Success Company. A third-generation leader, Josh brings passion and practicality to the fleet world. Co-author of The Fleet Success Playbook and champion of intentional culture and leadership development.

Tony Yankovich
Fleet Hall of Famer and Senior Consultant at RTA. With 35+ years in fleet and 25 years in consulting, Tony has helped over 450 fleets improve operations. He’s a walking encyclopedia of what works—and what doesn’t—in public and private fleet management.

#FleetSuccess #FleetManager #FleetLeadership #CAFM #FleetTraining #FleetManagement #LeadershipDevelopment #RTAFleet

Looking to take the next step to fleet success? Start by requesting your free copy of The Fleet Success Playbook. Written by fleet professionals for fleet professionals, the Playbook breaks down the four key pillars of fleet success, and gives you the tools you need to build a truly great fleet.

Request your free (yes, really, free!) copy here: https://rtafleet.com/resources/fleet-success-playbook?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=podcast

Sara shares how her fifth-year leap into the "100 Best Fleets" was game-changing, and Facundo recounts how being stuck behind a train on his first day led to earning the trust of a skeptical technician. The duo emphasizes networking, certifications, and shutting up long enough to actually hear your team out. 

Whether you're brand new or looking for a fleet leadership refresh, this episode is a goldmine of actionable advice—and it's way more fun than a fleet manual. 

🎓 Key Takeaways: 

🎯 Don’t change everything on day one. Earn trust first. 

🧠 Listen to your seasoned staff—they know where the bodies are buried. 

📊 Use your fleet data to tell compelling stories and secure resources. 

💬 Have an elevator pitch ready with fleet KPIs and facts. 

📚 Get your CAFM certification—it’s worth it. 

🤝 Build relationships outside your department: procurement, leadership, and customers matter. 

🧪 Always pilot before fully implementing a new system or product. 🐍 Beware of snake oil salesmen promising miracle fuel savings. 

Sara Burnam – Fleet Success Manager at RTA With over 27 years of fleet and automotive experience, Sara has led large government fleets with multimillion-dollar budgets and 60+ team members. Most notably, she was named Public Sector Fleet Manager of the Year (2023). Now at RTA, she brings her leadership and operational insights to help other fleets succeed. 

Facundo Tassara – Fleet Success Manager at RTA From wrenching in his dad’s mechanic shop to managing city fleets and working in fleet tech startups, Facundo blends hands-on experience with high-level strategy. His coaching style is candid, practical, and deeply informed by real-world success (and a few hard lessons). 

#FleetManagement #NewFleetManager #FleetSuccess #RTAFleet #FleetLeadership #GovernmentFleet #FleetTips #FleetPodcast

Looking to take the next step to fleet success? Start by requesting your free copy of The Fleet Success Playbook. Written by fleet professionals for fleet professionals, the Playbook breaks down the four key pillars of fleet success, and gives you the tools you need to build a truly great fleet.

Request your free (yes, really, free!) copy here: https://rtafleet.com/resources/fleet-success-playbook?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=podcast

🛠️ "A great parts manager is worth their weight in gold. Without the right parts at the right time, even the best fleet operation grinds to a halt.”– Marc Canton

From the importance of hiring the right parts professionals to leveraging technology for inventory control, they discuss how optimizing your parts program can save both time and money. They also explore common pitfalls in fleet maintenance, the pros and cons of outsourcing, and how a well-managed parts department directly impacts technician productivity and vehicle uptime.

If you’ve ever struggled with lost inventory, slow turnaround times, or unreliable vendors, this episode is packed with actionable advice to transform your fleet’s parts operation.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Outsourcing vs. In-House: Weighing the benefits and challenges of each approach.
✅ The Power of SLAs: Why service-level agreements are essential for holding vendors accountable.
✅ Inventory Management: How barcoding, cycle counts, and software automation can streamline parts tracking.
✅ The Role of a Great Parts Manager: The rare skill set needed to excel in parts management.
✅ Hidden Costs: How misplaced or untracked parts can bleed money from your fleet.
✅ Facility Layout Matters: Why strategic placement of parts rooms can reduce technician downtime.

Meet the Speakers:

🔹 Marc Canton – Head of Product & Consulting at RTA, with over 30 years of experience in fleet management and analytics.
🔹 Facundo Tassara – Award-winning fleet manager with seven recognitions in 100 Best Fleets. RTA’s Fleet Success Ambassador and BBQ enthusiast.
🔹 Nathan Schafer – Fleet Success Manager & Trainer with 25+ years in fleet operations, from technician to manager, and an active industry contributor.

🔧 Are you considering outsourcing your parts program? Wondering how to reduce downtime and improve fill rates? This episode will give you actionable strategies to optimize your parts department and keep your fleet running smoothly.

Looking to take the next step to fleet success? Start by requesting your free copy of The Fleet Success Playbook. Written by fleet professionals for fleet professionals, the Playbook breaks down the four key pillars of fleet success, and gives you the tools you need to build a truly great fleet.

Request your free (yes, really, free!) copy here: https://rtafleet.com/resources/fleet-success-playbook?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=podcast

From identifying key metrics and leveraging leading indicators to managing people effectively and making data-driven decisions, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for fleet professionals looking to transform their operations. Whether you’re a new fleet manager or a seasoned pro, this conversation will give you a roadmap for fleet success.

Key Takeaways:
🚛 The First 30 Days Matter – Why listening to stakeholders and analyzing data is crucial before making changes.
📊 The Power of Metrics – Understanding leading vs. lagging indicators to predict and improve fleet performance.
👥 Fixing Culture & People Issues – Why most “bad apples” are actually a leadership problem—and how to turn them around.
⚙️ Right-Sizing & Parts Management – How to increase fleet availability while reducing costs.
🏆 Sustaining Success – The secret to ensuring fleet improvements last long after leadership changes.

Meet the Experts:
🔹 Marc Canton – Fleet strategy expert with nearly 30 years of industry experience specializing in fleet analytics and operational efficiency.
🔹 Steve Saltzgiver – A fleet industry Hall of Famer with experience in government and private sector fleets, known for his ability to transform underperforming fleet operations.

#FleetManagement #FleetSuccess #Leadership #DataDrivenDecisions #FleetOptimization #FleetMetrics #FleetConsulting #TransportationIndustry #OperationalExcellence

Struggling with fleet efficiency?

Need expert insights to optimize your operations? Schedule a free consultation with our fleet consulting team today! Visit RTAfleet.com or email [email protected] to get started. 🚀

Looking to take the next step to fleet success? Start by requesting your free copy of The Fleet Success Playbook. Written by fleet professionals for fleet professionals, the Playbook breaks down the four key pillars of fleet success, and gives you the tools you need to build a truly great fleet.

Request your free (yes, really, free!) copy here: https://rtafleet.com/resources/fleet-success-playbook?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=podcast

✅ Are we missing a crucial step in technician career paths?
✅ Why do techs leave—and is it really just about pay?
✅ How can fleet managers develop their own future leaders?

This episode dives deep into the career progression of fleet professionals, from turning wrenches to leading a shop, and the massive gap in training that’s holding many back. If you’re managing a fleet, hiring techs, or wondering how to grow in your career, this is a must-listen episode!

✔️ Fleet Career Paths Are Broken – Most techs don’t plan to become fleet managers, so we must show them the way early.
✔️ The Sink-or-Swim Mentality Is Failing Supervisors – Many techs are promoted without leadership training, leading to frustration and high turnover.
✔️ Culture Matters More Than You Think – If your techs leave for 50 cents more an hour, they’re actually leaving for a bigger reason.
✔️ Training & Cross-Training Are Key – Techs need to see beyond the wrench: parts, service writing, data analytics, and leadership skills are crucial.
✔️ Workforce Development Needs a Reboot – High schools and trade schools must do a better job explaining fleet as a long-term career path, not just a job.
✔️ Your Best Future Fleet Manager Is Already in Your Shop – But are you giving them the tools to grow?

🔹 Marc Canton – Head of Product & Consulting at RTA Fleet with 30 years of experience in fleet management, analytics, and vehicle costing.
🔹 Facundo Tassara – Fleet success manager with 25+ years in the industry, leading fleet development and training.
🔹 Nathan Schafer – Former technician turned fleet manager, now coaching others on leadership and fleet best practices.

📌 Available on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts

📩 Have questions or feedback? Email us at [email protected]

#FleetManagement #TechnicianShortage #FleetTech #FleetSuccess #AutomotiveIndustry #Logistics #Leadership #WorkforceDevelopment #FleetOperations #Podcast

Looking to take the next step to fleet success? Start by requesting your free copy of The Fleet Success Playbook. Written by fleet professionals for fleet professionals, the Playbook breaks down the four key pillars of fleet success, and gives you the tools you need to build a truly great fleet.

Request your free (yes, really, free!) copy here: https://rtafleet.com/resources/fleet-success-playbook?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=podcast

The episode opens with introductions from Josh, Marc, and guest Mike Kastner, who shares his decades-long journey with NTEA. Mike explains NTEA’s core mission: representing manufacturers, distributors, and users of vocational trucks. The conversation explores critical industry topics, including:

• Electrification Challenges:
  While light-duty EV adoption has accelerated, Mike stresses the technological and infrastructural hurdles of electrifying heavier work trucks. NTEA’s neutral stance on fuels focuses on availability, capability, and total lifetime cost.
• Regulatory Whiplash:
  Frequent shifts in government policies—particularly around EV mandates—create uncertainty. Fleet managers face the challenge of making long-term decisions amidst rapidly changing regulations.
• Supply Chain & Economic Pressures:
  Pandemic-induced disruptions persist, compounded by inflation, material shortages, and potential tariffs (notably the looming 50% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum).
• Labor Shortages in Skilled Trades:
  Finding qualified welders and technicians remains difficult. Mike emphasizes the need for renewed investment in vocational education.
• Work Truck Week Preview:
  Mike highlights the upcoming Work Truck Week in Indianapolis, featuring the Green Truck Summit, new technology showcases, and solutions tailored for fleet professionals.

🔑 Flexibility is essential: Fleet managers must stay adaptable amid shifting policies and technologies.
🔑 Electrification isn’t one-size-fits-all: EV solutions should align with vehicle use cases and infrastructure readiness.
🔑 Supply chain resilience matters: Companies need contingency plans for sourcing materials and components.
🔑 Invest in people: Addressing labor shortages requires prioritizing vocational training and skilled trades.
🔑 Stay informed: Events like Work Truck Week offer critical insights and connections for navigating industry change.

With over three decades at NTEA, Mike leads advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C., representing 2,200+ companies. His work focuses on regulatory affairs, fleet management, and promoting the vocational truck industry’s interests across North America.

Josh brings 20+ years of fleet management experience and leads RTA Fleet’s mission to deliver cutting-edge fleet information systems.

With nearly 30 years in fleet operations and consulting, Marc specializes in data-driven solutions for federal, state, and corporate fleets.

Looking to take the next step to fleet success? Start by requesting your free copy of The Fleet Success Playbook. Written by fleet professionals for fleet professionals, the Playbook breaks down the four key pillars of fleet success, and gives you the tools you need to build a truly great fleet.

Request your free (yes, really, free!) copy here: https://rtafleet.com/resources/fleet-success-playbook?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=podcast

Drawing from decades of experience across thousands of implementations, Marc and Josh highlight the key reasons fleet managers struggle with adopting new technology. From data migration nightmares to lack of training and buy-in, they share hard-hitting lessons learned from real-world failures—and successes.

🚨 Data Migration Can Make or Break You – Many implementations go off the rails due to bad data. If your fleet reporting was garbage before, don’t expect miracles just by switching systems. Take the time to clean, standardize, and validate your data before migrating it.

⏳ Budget for Time—Lots of It – Underestimating the time required to implement a new system is a fatal mistake. If you aren’t carving out time for training, testing, and system setup, your project will drag on for months (or years).

🔄 Process Overhaul is a Must – Saying, "That’s just how we do it," is a surefire way to ensure your fleet stays inefficient. Implementation is the perfect time to rethink and improve your workflows.

📊 Integration Gaps Can Wreck Everything – If your fleet software needs to integrate with other systems, don’t assume it will just work. Vet your vendors early and ensure they can actually deliver. Otherwise, you could be left scrambling when a critical integration won’t be ready for years.

🎓 Training is Non-Negotiable – The #1 reason fleets hate their software? They don’t know how to use it. Skimping on training means missed opportunities, lost efficiency, and wasted money.

🚛 Marc Canton – A 30-year fleet industry expert, Marc has worn many hats, including fleet manager, transportation director, and consultant. Now at RTA Fleet, he’s passionate about helping fleets succeed through smarter technology.

📡 Josh Turley – With over 20 years in fleet technology, Josh has been at the forefront of every major evolution in the industry. He’s seen thousands of implementations—some wildly successful, others absolute disasters—and knows what separates the two.

At RTA, we know implementing fleet software can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. With RTA Fleet360, we streamline the process, help you avoid costly pitfalls, and ensure your team is fully trained.

👉 Schedule a demo today and see how RTA Fleet360 can set your fleet up for long-term success! https://rtafleet.com/book-a-demo

Looking to take the next step to fleet success? Start by requesting your free copy of The Fleet Success Playbook. Written by fleet professionals for fleet professionals, the Playbook breaks down the four key pillars of fleet success, and gives you the tools you need to build a truly great fleet.

Request your free (yes, really, free!) copy here: https://rtafleet.com/resources/fleet-success-playbook?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=podcast

The conversation dives deep into common objections fleet managers have when considering new software: fear of change, lack of time, data cleanup concerns, and the dreaded RFP process. Josh and Marc emphasize that waiting is actually costing fleet teams time and money. They debunk the myth that staying manual saves time, illustrating how a properly implemented FMIS system—whether from RTA or another provider—transforms fleet operations, improves efficiency, and ultimately, gives managers clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. The key takeaway? Stop delaying your success. The longer you wait, the more time and resources you waste.

🔧 An FMIS is a game-changer – Stop tracking fleet data with spreadsheets and paper. It’s inefficient and unsustainable.
⏳ Waiting = Wasting – Every moment spent without a modern system is time and money lost.
💡 Invest in the right tool – Choosing an FMIS that fits your needs is like upgrading to an impact wrench—it makes everything faster and more effective.
📊 Data cleanup isn’t a reason to delay – If your data is messy, that’s exactly why you need a system to help manage it.
🛠️ Implementation is key – Training and proper setup ensure that teams actually use and benefit from the software.

👨‍💼 Josh Turley – CEO of RTA Fleet with 20+ years in fleet software development and technology leadership. A proponent of change management and efficiency in fleet operations.

👨‍🔧 Marc Canton – Fleet industry veteran with 30+ years of experience managing public fleets, consulting, and implementing FMIS solutions. He knows the struggles and has the solutions.

Stop wasting time with outdated methods—upgrade to RTA’s Fleet360 today and experience the power of a modern FMIS. Schedule a demo now!

Looking to take the next step to fleet success? Start by requesting your free copy of The Fleet Success Playbook. Written by fleet professionals for fleet professionals, the Playbook breaks down the four key pillars of fleet success, and gives you the tools you need to build a truly great fleet.

Request your free (yes, really, free!) copy here: https://rtafleet.com/resources/fleet-success-playbook?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=podcast

Throughout the episode, Sara emphasizes the importance of building relationships, prioritizing continuous learning, and empowering team members to take pride in their work. By implementing key performance indicators (KPIs), automating processes, and introducing recognition programs, she created an environment where employees felt valued and motivated. Sara's leadership principles highlight how intentional culture and curiosity can drive success in any organization.

Key Takeaways

1. Embrace Change and Growth: Sara's journey underscores the value of stepping out of your comfort zone to seize opportunities that lead to personal and professional development.
2. Team Empowerment: Recognizing and celebrating the contributions of team members fosters engagement and productivity.
3. Data-Driven Decision Making: Using KPIs and feedback loops can uncover inefficiencies and guide strategic improvements.
4. Celebrate Small Wins: Whether through awards, meetings, or recognition programs, highlighting achievements builds morale and encourages innovation.
5. Curiosity Leads to Innovation: Asking "why" and challenging the status quo are key to uncovering opportunities for efficiency and growth.

About Sara Burnam
Sara Burnam is a seasoned fleet management professional with over 16 years of experience in government fleet operations. Formerly the Fleet Manager for Palm Beach County, Florida, she managed a vast operation with 58 employees, a $50 million budget, and thousands of assets. Her accomplishments include earning the 2023 Fleet Manager of the Year award, implementing innovative fleet systems, and fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence. Sara is passionate about professional development, sustainability, and empowering others to succeed in the fleet industry.

Connect with Sara Burnam on LinkedIn to learn more about her journey, exchange ideas, and gain insights into effective fleet management strategies. Don't miss the opportunity to collaborate with a proven leader in the field!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-burnam-msl-cafm-9a354658/

Looking to take the next step to fleet success? Start by requesting your free copy of The Fleet Success Playbook. Written by fleet professionals for fleet professionals, the Playbook breaks down the four key pillars of fleet success, and gives you the tools you need to build a truly great fleet.

Request your free (yes, really, free!) copy here: https://rtafleet.com/resources/fleet-success-playbook?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=podcast