Episode 210: How to Win NAFA’s 100 Best Fleets: Insider Advice from a Longtime Judge

Improving fleet availability isn’t just about working faster—it’s about understanding why assets are down in the first place. In this episode, Marc Canton sits down with Andrew Finch, Fleet Management Analyst at RTA Fleet, to unpack one of the most underutilized tools inside a fleet management system: asset statuses and work order statuses. Andrew explains the critical difference between the two, why a single “in the shop” status doesn’t provide meaningful insight, and how better status design can uncover real bottlenecks—whether that’s waiting on parts, waiting on vendors, waiting on approvals, or even waiting on operators to pick up completed units. They also discuss common mistakes fleets make when setting up statuses, including overlap, over-complication, lack of technician buy-in, and tracking data without a clear purpose. The conversation shifts from theory to practical strategy: how to build a status structure that drives clarity, improves communication across departments, and helps leaders defend staffing, budget, and process decisions with real data. If you want to move from guessing at downtime to managing it strategically, this episode gives you a framework to start. Key Takeaways Asset status and work order status are not the same thing. Asset status answers “Where is the unit in its lifecycle?” while work order status answers “What stage is this repair in?”   “In the shop” is not a diagnosis. Without more granular statuses, you can’t identify true bottlenecks.   Availability improves when bottlenecks are visible. Waiting on parts, vendors, approvals, or pickup can all look identical unless tracked properly.   Statuses should have a purpose. If you can’t explain what decision a status supports, you probably don’t need it.   Avoid overlap and ambiguity. Each status should be clearly defined and mutually exclusive.   Technician buy-in is critical. If statuses feel like “big brother,” data quality will suffer. If they feel useful, adoption improves.   Data supports leadership conversations. Clean status data helps justify staffing, process changes, and budget requests with evidence instead of anecdotes.   Start simple and refine. You don’t need dozens of statuses—just the right ones that align with operational goals.   Marc Canton Marc Canton is the Vice President of Product and Consulting at RTA Fleet and the host of the Fleet Success Show, a podcast focused on helping fleet organizations improve performance, efficiency, and leadership. With deep experience in fleet operations, technology, and consulting, Marc works closely with public and private fleets to improve data management, operational processes, and asset availability. Marc is a recognized voice in the fleet industry and frequently speaks about topics such as fleet performance metrics, operational efficiency, and the strategic use of fleet management information systems (FMIS). Through his consulting work and educational content, he helps fleet leaders translate data into actionable insights that improve reliability, stakeholder satisfaction, and organizational outcomes. Andrew Finch  Andrew Finch is a Fleet Management Analyst at RTA Fleet, where he specializes in fleet analytics, operational data strategy, and performance measurement. In his role, Andrew works with fleet organizations to interpret data from fleet management systems and uncover insights that improve availability, efficiency, and decision-making. Andrew entered the fleet industry early in his career and quickly developed expertise in fleet analytics, including CAFM training and professional development through industry organizations such as NAFA. His work focuses on helping fleets better structure their data, particularly through effective asset and work-order status tracking, to identify operational bottlenecks and improve maintenance workflows. Andrew frequently collaborates with fleet teams to turn raw operational data into meaningful performance improvements. 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=episode_213 Control fleet chaos with RTA Fleet360, proven software designed by fleet managers for fleet managers: https://rtafleet.com/book-a-demo?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=episode_213 

In this forward-looking episode of The Fleet Success Show, hosts Josh Turley and Marc Canton break down the top fleet trends and predictions for 2026. The duo tackles the ongoing hype around AI and how it mirrors past tech bubbles like dot-com and EV infrastructure. They dive into what AI adoption means for fleet managers and why the real value lies in smart vetting and operational integration, not flashy buzzwords. They also explore the persistent technician shortage, how public sector HR policies are getting in the way of competitive hiring, and why Gen Z might hold the key to solving the labor gap (but only if compensation adjusts accordingly). Finally, they forecast a hopeful stabilization in supply chains and a shift in fleet leadership, from wrench-turners to data-driven decision-makers. Fleet leaders, if you’re looking to make smarter decisions and avoid falling into hype traps in 2026, this episode is your playbook. Key Takeaways AI isn't going away, but the hype is. Fleet software vendors must be vetted for real AI integration vs. gimmicks. The technician shortage continues. Gen Z may help, but compensation is still a major barrier. Fleet leadership is evolving. The fleet manager of 2026 is a data-savvy business operator, not just a mechanic. Supply chain stability is (hopefully) on the horizon. Positive vibes predict no major disruptions in 2026. AI adoption must be paired with clear ROI. Don’t chase tools. Solve problems and focus on productivity, not novelty. Host Bios Josh Turley CEO of RTA: The Fleet Success Company, Josh is a passionate advocate for operational excellence in fleet management. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of fleet software systems, Josh brings strategic clarity to the most pressing challenges in the industry. Marc Canton As RTA’s VP of Product and a leading voice on the Fleet Success Show, Marc blends industry insight with sharp commentary. He’s known for cutting through the noise and focusing on what truly matters to fleet managers trying to navigate evolving tech, labor, and leadership dynamics.   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=episode_213 Control fleet chaos with RTA Fleet360, proven software designed by fleet managers for fleet managers: https://rtafleet.com/book-a-demo?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=episode_213 

In this powerful episode of The Fleet Success Show, Marc Canton sits down with Fleet Hall-of-Famer Steve Saltzgiver to tackle one of the most overlooked but critical areas in fleet: replacement planning. Steve shares jaw-dropping stories from his time leading Fortune 500 and government fleets, including how one change could have saved a company $800M. This episode explores why strategic fleet replacement is a fleet-wide performance driver, not just a financial issue. You'll hear about the ripple effects on technician staffing, spare ratios, maintenance costs, safety, and more. Key Takeaways Replacement is the “granddaddy” of all fleet processes, directly impacting every other aspect of fleet success, including technician staffing, space planning, and asset availability. Data-driven replacement decisions can yield millions in savings, and Steve shares how one fleet could have saved over $800M by adjusting its spare ratio. Fleet behavior is shaped by capital decisions. When budgets (not data) drive decision-making, safety and performance suffer. Analytics aren’t enough if leadership won’t act. Even when the math is clear, cultural resistance and short-term thinking can block progress. Chargebacks and lifecycle modeling are foundational tools for justifying replacements and funding future ones. Speaker Bios Steve Saltzgiver A Fleet Hall-of-Famer and former executive with both government and private sector fleets, Steve has turned around some of the most complex fleet operations in the country. He now serves as a senior fleet consultant with RTA, helping clients tackle issues from asset planning to culture transformation. Marc Canton VP of Product and Consulting at RTA: The Fleet Success Company, Marc brings deep expertise in fleet operations, leadership, and performance coaching. He co-hosts The Fleet Success Show and leads strategy for RTA’s software and consulting offerings. 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=episode_213 Control fleet chaos with RTA Fleet360, proven software designed by fleet managers for fleet managers: https://rtafleet.com/book-a-demo?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=episode_213 

Fleet is changing. Fast. On this episode of The Fleet Success Show, Marc Canton (VP of Product) is joined by Jenelle Hansen (VP of Customer Success) to talk about the changing face of fleet leadership and what that means for fleet maintenance software.From the exodus of retiring Baby Boomers to the influx of tech-savvy leaders from outside the industry, Jenelle and Marc break down the shift in mindset, tools, and expectations. Fleet managers aren’t just responsible for vehicles anymore—they’re expected to analyze data, optimize workflows, and speak the language of leadership.The discussion covers how new fleet leaders are approaching automation, digital transformation, implementation, and training, and why your FMIS needs to be more than a repository for work orders. If you're a fleet leader looking to gain operational efficiency, reduce manual tasks, and prove your team’s value to stakeholders, this episode is a must-listen.Key Takeaways:The "changing of the guard" in fleet is real, and it’s changing the role of the fleet managerWhy newer fleet leaders are laser-focused on data, automation, and reportingCommon mistakes to avoid during software implementationWhy consistency, communication, and clean data are key to long-term successHow training (or the lack of it) can make or break your software ROIWhy implementation is not a burden—it’s an opportunity to improve processes and lead with intentionMarc Canton is the Vice President of Product at RTA: The Fleet Success Company. With decades of experience in fleet and product strategy, Marc helps shape the future of RTA’s FMIS platform to meet the evolving needs of modern fleet operations.Jenelle Hansen is RTA’s Vice President of Customer Success. She leads the teams responsible for implementation, training, and ongoing support. Jenelle and her team sit on the front lines of fleet modernization, helping customers adapt, optimize, and thrive. 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=episode_213 Control fleet chaos with RTA Fleet360, proven software designed by fleet managers for fleet managers: https://rtafleet.com/book-a-demo?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=episode_213 

In this Fleet Management 101 edition of The Fleet Success Show, host Facundo Tassara sits down with Brendan Hunt, Assistant Fleet Service and Facility Manager for Fairfax County, Virginia, home to one of the largest and most diverse government fleets in the country.Brendan shares the real, raw journey of his path from turning wrenches as a tech in a gas station to leading standardization, training, and quality assurance across a 6,000+ unit fleet. With humor and humility, Brendan recounts his early missteps as a new supervisor, the painful but necessary leadership lessons, and his passion for documenting processes to leave a legacy of systems over individuals.This episode is a blueprint for new and aspiring fleet leaders who want to grow beyond the garage floor. Whether you're currently a tech or a new supervisor looking to get your bearings, Brendan's story offers both inspiration and practical takeaways.Key Takeaways:Leadership is About People, Not Just Performance: Making the leap from tech to supervisor means learning to motivate, mentor, and communicate.Process Over Heroics: Brendan learned the hard way that success isn’t about being the hero—it’s about building repeatable systems.Document Everything: SOPs and written processes create stability, especially when team members move between facilities or roles.Standardization Matters: From fleet assets to shop equipment, reducing variability drives safety, efficiency, and faster training.Every Shop is a Classroom: Brendan used each role and shop as a learning opportunity, building a foundation that made him a better leader.Listen First, Lead Second: Real change happens when leaders stop talking and start observing and engaging. Speaker Bios:Brendan HuntAssistant Fleet Service and Facility Manager, Fairfax County, VABrendan oversees training and quality assurance for Fairfax County’s 6,000+ unit fleet. He began his journey as a technician in 2007 and has worked in nearly every shop and section across the county, eventually rising into leadership roles where he now focuses on standardization and long-term fleet improvement.Facundo TassaraFleet Success Ambassador, RTA: The Fleet Success CompanyFacundo brings deep public fleet experience and a passion for coaching the next generation of fleet professionals. He leads RTA’s educational initiatives, including the Fleet Success Playbook, webinars, and Fleet Management 101 series.  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=episode_213 Control fleet chaos with RTA Fleet360, proven software designed by fleet managers for fleet managers: https://rtafleet.com/book-a-demo?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=episode_213 

In this episode of The Fleet Success Show, Marc Canton is joined by Lincey Araya, Fleet Services and Field Program Manager at the University of South Florida, to explore one of the most pressing challenges in university and government fleets: centralization.Lincey shares her bold journey of transforming a fragmented, underperforming campus fleet operation into a unified and efficient service-based model. Facing pushback, budget turf wars, and deep-seated "we've always done it this way" culture, Lincey challenged the status quo and built a collaborative, data-driven operation that now services more than 25% of campus assets and continues to grow.Through grit, relationship-building, and sharp analytical thinking, she reveals how she created a path for department-level fleets to "opt-in," developed a phased motor pool strategy, and partnered with procurement to prevent unnecessary purchases. If you're a fleet manager trying to justify your in-house shop, boost utilization, or prove ROI to leadership, this episode is packed with gold.Key Takeaways:How decentralization kills efficiency, especially in higher edStrategies for overcoming resistance to changeTurning "impossible" into a phased, opt-in solutionWhy stakeholder collaboration beats top-down mandatesCreative budget reallocation that accelerates fleet transformationWhy "fleet as a service" wins over "fleet as a czar"Speaker Bios:Lincey Araya is the Fleet Services and Field Program Manager at the University of South Florida. With a background in the collision repair industry and as a certified ASE and I-CAR mechanic, she brings over 20 years of technical and operational experience. Her leadership focuses on elevating fleet service delivery, data-driven management, and building a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement across campus operations.Marc Canton is the VP of Product & Consulting at RTA: The Fleet Success Company and co-host of The Fleet Success Show. With two decades of university operations experience and deep expertise in fleet centralization, consulting, and operations strategy, Marc helps public sector fleets maximize performance, reduce cost, and improve stakeholder satisfaction. 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=episode_213 Control fleet chaos with RTA Fleet360, proven software designed by fleet managers for fleet managers: https://rtafleet.com/book-a-demo?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=episode_213 

Fleet managers everywhere are playing defense when it comes to vehicle replacement. In this hard-hitting episode of The Fleet Success Show, RTA CEO Josh Turley is joined by Fleet Management Analyst Griffin Scott to dig into the real cost of reactive replacement planning, and why it's hurting your maintenance program, your budget, and your credibility with leadership. Griffin shares stories from more than 100 replacement studies he's conducted across the country and breaks down a simple, math-backed formula that every fleet manager can use to justify their replacement funding. Together, they expose the "doom loop" created by underfunded fleets and show how a strong replacement plan can unlock availability, control costs, and even help solve your technician shortage. Whether you're battling aging assets, getting steamrolled at budget meetings, or just tired of hearing "we'll look at it next year," this episode will arm you with the strategy, language, and validation you need to take action.   Key Takeaways: 50% of most fleets are overdue for replacement, and many don’t even realize it Without a plan, the loudest voice gets the money, not the assets that need it most Reactive planning compounds technician shortages and skyrockets downtime A simple equation can determine your true replacement needs: Total fleet value / average lifecycle = annual replacement budget Presenting to council? Use clear visuals, focus on long-term impacts, and show how deferred capex becomes rising op-ex Internal Service Funds (ISFs) and chargeback models help secure sustainable funding   Speaker Bios: Josh Turley is the CEO of RTA: The Fleet Success Company. With decades of fleet leadership and software development experience, Josh is passionate about helping fleets succeed by focusing on availability, cost control, stakeholder satisfaction, and intentional culture. Griffin Scott is a Fleet Management Analyst at RTA who works directly with consulting clients to analyze operations and implement data-driven strategies. Having completed more than 100 replacement studies, Griffin brings unmatched expertise in capital planning and lifecycle optimization.   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=episode_213 Control fleet chaos with RTA Fleet360, proven software designed by fleet managers for fleet managers: https://rtafleet.com/book-a-demo?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=episode_213 

In the latest episode of The Fleet Success Show, Marc Canton, former fleet manager and RTA's VP of Product & Consulting, and Tony Yankovich, former fleet asset manager and RTA's Fleet Consulting Group Director, talk about a major shift happening in the fleet industry: the renewed drive for education, training, and clear paths for career advancement. For the growing number of people attending industry conferences, to mechanics wondering how to move up the ladder to become shop supervisors, today's fleet professionals aren't waiting around to get promoted. They're taking the initiative to go hunting for the knowledge they know they need in order to grow. Marc and Tony dive into:Why the technician-to-manager pipeline is broken, and how we can start to rebuild it. How younger fleet pros don't just want growth, training, and mentorship. They expect it. The frustrating lack of formal degrees and higher education options for fleet professionals.Real examples of fleets turning to external training and coaching options (like NAFA and RTA Connect) to fill the education gap.What needs to happen to keep fleet falling apart as Boomers continue to retireIf you're a fleet leader working hard to retain your team, a tech dreaming of taking the next step in your career, or anyone in between, this episode is the one for you. Get tactical insights and ideas on how the industry needs to evolve in order to survive. Speaker BiosMarc CantonVP of Product & Consulting, RTA FleetMarc brings strategic vision and operational depth to every conversation. With decades in the industry, he helps fleets modernize through smart technology, KPI alignment, and better leadership development.Tony YankovichFleet Consultant, RTATony has been in the fleet industry for over 35 years—26 of them as a full-time consultant. His insight into right-sizing, workforce development, and operational analysis has helped dozens of fleets transform. 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=episode_213 Control fleet chaos with RTA Fleet360, proven software designed by fleet managers for fleet managers: https://rtafleet.com/book-a-demo?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=episode_213 

In this powerhouse episode of The Fleet Success Show: Fleet Management 101, host Facundo Tassara sits down with Jeffrey Hawthorne, Fleet Manager at the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office, whose fleet earned the coveted #1 spot on the 100 Best Fleets list. They dive deep into how Jeffrey climbed the ranks from #95 to #1 over a decade, and the leadership, data-driven discipline, and relentless pursuit of excellence that fueled the journey.Jeffrey shares his personal story of transitioning from the U.S. Army to public sector fleet management, the grueling challenges of job hunting, and the unexpected opportunity that changed everything. Most importantly, he outlines how applying annually to the 100 Best Fleets program became the blueprint for continuous improvement in his operation.This episode is a must-listen for any fleet leader striving to prove their in-house maintenance program's value, maximize resource efficiency, and elevate team morale with measurable progress. Key Takeaways:Applying to the 100 Best Fleets is more than a contest, it's a roadmap for growthYour first application will be brutal, and that's exactly why you should do itFleet success comes from consistency, measurement, and a relentless drive to improvePM compliance is the most critical metric for law enforcement fleetsSuccess breeds credibility, morale, and opportunity"Start early? No. Start always."Speaker Bios:Jeffrey Hawthorne is the Fleet Manager for the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office. A 26-year U.S. Army veteran, he brings a battlefield-tested mindset to fleet leadership. Under his direction, the fleet climbed from #95 to #1 in the 100 Best Fleets.Facundo Tassara is a seasoned fleet leader, RTA's VP of Fleet Success, and host of the Fleet Success Show. His mission is to elevate fleet performance across the public and private sectors with actionable strategies and expert insights. 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=episode_213 Control fleet chaos with RTA Fleet360, proven software designed by fleet managers for fleet managers: https://rtafleet.com/book-a-demo?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=episode_213 

In this episode, Josh Turley sits down with veteran fleet leader and NAFA judge Steve Saltzgiver to pull back the curtain on the NAFA 100 Best Fleets competition. With over 200 applications pouring in each year and only 100 winners chosen, the margin for error is razor thin, and knowing how to tell your story effectively can make all the difference.Steve shares invaluable advice for fleet managers on how to stand out, what separates the top 10 fleets from the bottom 10, and why AI-generated applications often backfire. They cover everything from storytelling and metrics to why consistency and culture are just as important as availability and PM compliance.Whether you're a seasoned applicant or considering submitting for the first time, this episode offers essential insights to improve your chances, and your fleet operations. ✅ Key Takeaways:Tell a compelling story. Data alone won’t get you to the top—narrative matters.Answer every question. Incomplete applications are automatically at a disadvantage.Metrics matter. Know the industry benchmarks, not just your peers' numbers.Design matters. Clean formatting, visuals, and team photos can tip the scale.AI won't save you. Judges can spot ChatGPT a mile away—use it with caution.Talk to the judges. Get feedback to improve and apply again.Treat your application like a continuous improvement project. 👥 Speaker Bios:Josh TurleyCEO of RTA: The Fleet Success Company and host of The Fleet Success Show. Josh is a passionate advocate for elevating the fleet industry and helping fleets achieve operational excellence through data, systems, and culture.Steve SaltzgiverA fleet management legend with nearly five decades of experience, Steve has served in both public and private sector roles, judged hundreds of NAFA 100 Best applications, and is a trusted voice on what it takes to build a high-performing fleet team. 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=episode_213 Control fleet chaos with RTA Fleet360, proven software designed by fleet managers for fleet managers: https://rtafleet.com/book-a-demo?utm_source=simplecast&utm_medium=footer_notes&utm_campaign=episode_213