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Optimizing Fleet Operations: Strategies for Maximum Efficiency

Efficient fleet operations are the backbone of a cost-effective, safe, and high-performing transportation organization. This course equips fleet managers with insights and strategies needed to optimize every facet of fleet performance. Participants will learn how to leverage data, predictive maintenance, and technology to streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve driver productivity. Through practical case studies, interactive exercises, and actionable frameworks, attendees will gain a roadmap to implement operational improvements, benchmark performance, and drive continuous efficiency gains across their fleets.


Learning Objectives

By the end of this program, participants will be able to:


1. Identify key operational metrics and performance indicators critical for fleet efficiency.

2. Examine fleet data to identify inefficiencies and prioritize operational improvement opportunities.

3. Develop a customized, actionable plan to implement operational improvements and continuous performance monitoring.


This series has been approved by NAFA Fleet Management Association for 9 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE), which may be applied towards CAFM recertification credit.

When: August 18-20, 2026 1-4PM ET

 

Where: Zoom link information will be sent prior to the event date. 

 

Registration Fees

                               Early Bird (until July 31, 2026)                  Regular Rate (after July 31, 2026)

Member                          $249                                                           $299

Nonmember                   $449                                                           $549

 

Registration Deadline: August 18, 2026 11AM ET

 

 

August 18, 2026

Session 1: The Foundations of High-Performance Fleet Operations

1:00-2:30 PM ET

In this session, we will establish a strategic and operational framework for high-performance fleet management. Participants will examine the role of fleet operations as an enterprise system, explore the core pillars of operational excellence, and assess how inefficiencies emerge across interconnected processes. Emphasis is placed on systems thinking, leadership responsibility, and aligning fleet operations with broader organizational objectives.

 

Learning Objectives

  • Explain the core components and interdependencies that define high-performance fleet operations.
  • Analyze the impact of operational inefficiencies across financial, safety, and service delivery operations.
  • Evaluate current fleet operations against an example maturity model to determine areas for improvement.

 

Session 2: Defining and Measuring What Matters – Fleet Performance Metrics

2:30-4PM ET

Participants will focus on identifying and structuring the key performance indicators that drive fleet efficiency, including: exploring leading and lagging metrics, data governance principles, and the development of meaningful performance baselines. The session emphasizes selecting metrics that align with organizational goals and enable informed and timely decision-making.

 

Learning Objectives

  • Identify critical fleet performance metrics and their relevance to operational efficiency.
  • Differentiate between leading and lagging indicators and their applications in fleet management.
  • Construct a baseline measurement framework to support ongoing performance evaluation.

August 19, 2026

Session 3: Leveraging Fleet Data for Strategic Decision-Making

1:00-2:30 PM ET

Examine how fleet data can be transformed into actionable insights. Participants will learn to interpret data from multiple systems, identify operational inefficiencies, and apply structured analytical approaches such as trend analysis and root cause evaluation. The focus is on prioritizing improvement opportunities based on measurable impact.

 

Learning Objectives

  • Analyze fleet data sets to identify patterns, trends, and operational anomalies.
  • Apply root cause analysis techniques to diagnose sources of inefficiency.
  • Prioritize operational improvement opportunities using structured decision-making frameworks.

 

Session 4: Predictive Maintenance and Technology-Enabled Optimization

2:30-4:00 PM ET

Participants will be introduced to advanced operational strategies, including predictive maintenance and the integration of fleet technologies. Learn how telematics, diagnostics, and automation tools enhance asset reliability, reduce lifecycle costs, and improve maintenance planning. The session also addresses evaluating technology investments and their operational return.

 

Learning Objectives

  • Explain the progression from reactive to predictive maintenance strategies.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of fleet technologies in improving operational performance.
  • Design a maintenance and technology integration approach that prioritizes reliability and cost control.

 

August 20, 2026

Session 5: Driving Operational Efficiency Through Process and People

1:00-2:30 PM ET

In this session, we will address the human and procedural dimensions of fleet optimization. Participants will examine process standardization, workflow efficiency, driver productivity, and change management strategies. Emphasis is placed on aligning people, processes, and performance expectations to achieve sustained operational improvements.

 

Learning Objectives

  • Analyze existing fleet processes to identify inefficiencies and variability.
  • Apply process improvement methodologies to enhance operational workflows.
  • Evaluate the role of leadership and organizational culture in sustaining efficiency gains.

 

Session 6: Building an Actionable Roadmap for Continuous Improvement

2:30-4:00 PM ET

We will focus on translating analysis into implementation. Participants will develop a structured roadmap for operational improvement, including goal setting, performance monitoring, and benchmarking. The session emphasizes continuous improvement practices and the creation of a sustainable performance management framework.

Learning Objectives

  • Develop a customized operational improvement plan aligned with organizational goals.
  • Implement performance monitoring systems to track progress and outcomes.
  • Evaluate fleet performance using benchmarking and continuous improvement methodologies.


NAFA Washington WAZIP Presentation (June 2026)

Please join NAFA Washington members for a special presentation on the WAZIP program (Washington’s new Medium/Heavy Duty Zero-Emission Vehicle Incentive Program). If your business is interested in reducing energy costs and emissions, this presentation is for you. 

When: June 2, 2026. 11AM PT

Where: Zoom link information will be provided prior to the event date.

Registration Fee: Free to all, but registration is required. 

Registration Deadline: June 1, 2026 11:59PM ET.

CAFM Virtual (October and November 2026)

Covering all eight CAFM certification modules, this program accelerates preparation for Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) program examination and puts candidates on the path to successful certification. Over two weeks, take part in eight module sessions instructed by the CAFMs who helped shape the program.

  • Immerse yourself in eight in-depth module sessions: Asset Management, Business Management, Financial Management, Information Management, Maintenance Management, Professional Development, Risk Management, and Vehicle Fuel Management
  • Learn best practices and study tips from CAFM designees to help you pass the exams


For those currently enrolled in the CAFM program, this is the perfect opportunity to advance toward earning your credentials. If you are not yet enrolled in the CAFM program, you may enroll during the registration process.

 


When: October 26-29 and November 2-5, 2026, from 1:00-4:00 p.m. ET

Where: Zoom link information will be sent prior to the event dates.

Registration Fee

Early Bird (Through September 25, 2026)

Regular (After September 25, 2026))

CAFM Virtual Registration Only, for Current CAFM Candidates

NAFA Member

$499

$599

Non-Member

$899

$999

CAFM Virtual plus CAFM Certification Enrollment: All Access Bundle*

NAFA Member

$2,299

$2,399

Non-Member

$4,099

$4,199


*CAFM Certification Enrollment: All Access Bundle includes: Enroll for 3-year access in the most essential fleet disciplines, and receive: Guidebooks (digital), eLearning Courses, supplemental Boot Camp webinars on demand (3-4 hours each), a CAFM Study Guide with practice questions for each module, access to the online CAFM candidate community, access to monthly CAFM Office Hours, and one Exam per module (retests available for purchase as needed). 


Registration Deadline: October 26, 2026, at 11:00 am ET


Enrolling in the CAFM Program with CAFM Complete
CAFM All Access is a comprehensive bundle of all the educational resources and examinations you need to earn your CAFM designation. To earn the designation a candidate must pass an exam in each of eight fleet modules within a 3-year window. Enrollment includes:

  • 8 Guidebooks (digital)– one per module
  • 8 Study Guides with practice questions – one for each module
  • 8 exams – one for each module (retests available for purchase as needed)
  • Access to the online CAFM candidate community
  • Access to monthly CAFM Office Hours

If you are not yet enrolled in the CAFM program, you may enroll during the registration process.

Schedule — All sessions are at 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET

Tuesday, October 26: Asset Management– Fleet assets can be a significant segment of an organization’s total net value and operating expenses. In this session, learn best practices for managing these assets from procurement to remarketing, and everything in between, all while minimizing costs.

Wednesday, October 27: Business Management– All fleet professionals must be knowledgeable business managers. This session will cover an array of practical and commonly encountered business topics, including fleet law, policies, RFPs, emergency operations, strategic partnering, and more.

Tuesday, October 28: Financial Management– Understanding financial concepts will help your fleet maintain operational and budgetary efficiency. Gain the ability to understand how personal use, leasing, purchasing, reimbursement, life cycle cost analysis, and performance monitoring impact your fleet.

Thursday, October 29: Maintenance Management– Vehicle maintenance directly impacts productivity, driver satisfaction, corporate image, safety, environmental compliance, and the financial bottom line. In this session, learn about vehicle maintenance, inventory management, and other critical competencies.

Wednesday, November 2: Information Management– With general IT knowledge, fleet professionals can interact with support staff to solve problems and enhance functionality. Discover the tools to function in a data-rich work environment, including fleet management information systems, telematics, and more.

Monday, November 3: Vehicle Fuel Management– Fuel is the second largest fleet vehicle expense, so its management requires scrutiny to take every opportunity for minimizing costs and mitigating risk. In this session, learn about conventional and alternative fuels, and uncover associated issues and policies.

Thursday, November 4: Risk Management– This session will demonstrate the fundamentals of managing fleet risk, including insurance, safety policies, safety programs, subrogation, personnel training, crash management, and safety, in addition to how to effectively handle a loss.

Monday, November 5: Professional Development– With emerging technology, changing legal issues, and increased responsibilities, fleet specialists, like most professionals, need to continually educate themselves. Bolster your organizational and leadership skills and set yourself up for the future in this session.

Fleet Fuel Cost Volatility: What You Can Actually Control (June 2026)

Fuel prices surged by nearly $2 per gallon in early 2026 — and structural refining constraints mean that kind of volatility isn’t going away. For fleet managers, fuel costs feel like something to absorb. This session reframes it as something to manage.

Driver behavior accounts for 15% to 40% of fuel consumption variance between identical vehicles. However, fuel represents only the most apparent expense. Inconsistent and aggressive driving behaviors can also accelerate maintenance wear, drive insurance premiums in a market that has posted rate increases for 58 consecutive quarters, and increase incident exposure. Across all four dimensions, the annual cost gap between your most aggressive and most conservative drivers can exceed $9,000 per vehicle.

This session gives fleet leaders the data and the framework to act — and the language to make the case internally when every budget line is under scrutiny.

Learning objectives:

  • Attendees will leave this session able to:
  • Explain why fuel volatility is structural and what that means for fleet budgeting.
  • Quantify the per-vehicle cost of aggressive driving across fuel, maintenance, insurance, and crash exposure.
  • Identify which driver behaviors most impact fuel efficiency and how coaching programs have delivered results in light- and medium-duty fleets.
  • Describe what underwriters want to see at renewal — and how documented safety improvement elevates your negotiating position.

Sponsored by Lytx

When: Tuesday, June 16, 2026 1-2PM ET

Where: Zoom link information will be provided prior to the event date. 

Registration Fee: Free, but registration is required. 

Registration Deadline: June 15, 2026. 12PM ET

2026 DOT Compliance Mid-Year Outlook: Preparing Your Fleet for What’s Next

The DOT is regulatory landscape for motor carriers is shifting fast, and 2026 is shaping up to be another pivotal year. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has already issued 14 new regulations, with many more in the works, affecting everything from drug and alcohol testing and hours of service to CDLs and vehicle technology standards. Failure to prepare could mean costly fines and operational disruptions. Join this webcast for expert insights and practical steps to keep your fleet ready.

You’ll learn about:

  • CDL medical certification updates and the status of non-domiciled licensees
  • Drug & alcohol testing, including the status of saliva and fentanyl testing, electronic recordkeeping, and proposed Clearinghouse revisions
  • Hours-of-service & ELD flexibility, pilot programs, and proposed emergency exemption changes
  • CSA & Safety Fitness process updates that could reshape audits and enforcement priorities
  • Vehicle safety and technology mandates, including automatic emergency braking and automation readiness
  • Significant 2026 rules changes now in effect

Plus, get your questions answered during a live Q&A
session with J. J. Keller’s compliance experts!

Rick Smith
Sr. Compliance Expert
J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.

Rick Smith joined J. J. Keller in 2024 with 19 years of
hand-on experience in the transportation industry, including managing DOT
compliance programs for several large private motor carriers. His background
also includes expertise in environmental health and safety (EHS) management,
giving him a comprehensive understanding of risk reductions and regulatory
oversite. Rick supports clients with a wide range of regulatory questions and
compliance challenges, helping them navigate in an ever-changing regulatory
landscape.


Daren Hansen, CTP, CTRE
Sr. Compliance Expert
J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.

Daren Hansen joined J. J. Keller & Associates in 1996
and has served as a Transportation Compliance Expert since 2001. He contributes
to a wide range of transportation safety–related products and services, drawing
on deep expertise in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. Each month,
Daren answers hundreds of regulatory questions covering topics such as hours of
service, driver qualification, cargo securement, and drug and alcohol testing.
He is also a member of the NPTC’s Legislative & Regulatory Advisory
Committee.

When: May 18, 2026, at 1-2PM ET

WhereZoom link will be sent prior to the event

Registration Fee: Free, but Registration is required

Registration End Date: May 18, 2026, at 12PM ET

Registration is closed.

Sustainable Fleet Technology Series: Using Telematics Data Analytics to Plan for Fleet Electrification

Telematics serves as the foundation for collecting real-world data.  Telematics helps gauge a variety of things such as daily mileage, route patterns, dwell and idling times, and payload and energy consumption.  Coupled with data analytics, ideal vehicle candidates for electric replacement and best suitable vehicle routes are identified.  Learn how fleet managers use telematics to leverage data for accurate range assessment requirements, charging needs, and operational impacts to make return on investment decisions.

 

Speakers:

  • Rachel Darken, Assistant Fleet Superintendent, City of Madison Wisconsin
  • Jared Walker, Senior Specialist, EV Product Analytics, Sawatch Labs, a WEX Company
  • Katie Fletcher, Sustainability Program Analyst, Denver Water


This webinar has been approved by NAFA Fleet Management Association for 1.5 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE), which may be applied towards CAFM recertification credit.

When: Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 2:00-3:30 pm ET.

Where: Zoom information will be sent prior to the zoom date.

Registration Fee: Free, but registration is required 

Registration Deadline: Wednesday May 20th at 12 PM

Registration is closed.

2026 Initiatives & Actions of the 100 Best Fleets Webinar Series

For 25 years, the 100 Best Fleets contest has recognized the Americas’ most efficient and effective fleet operations, awarding them the recognition they deserve. Gain practical insights and inspiration by hearing from fleets of every sector and size.


Sessions: All run 1-2PM ET
Session 1, May 7: Award Winners of the 100 Best Fleets
Session 2, May 14: Top Initiatives of the 100 Best Fleets
Session 3, May 21: Shop and Supply Operations
Session 4, May 28: Women of the 100 Best Fleets
Session 5, June 4: Benchmarking Trends of the 100 Best

Where: Zoom link information will be sent prior to the event dates. 

Registration Fee: Free for NAFA members and $99 for non-members

Registration Deadline: June 4, 2026 12 PM ET

Zero Emissions Vehicle Options for Law Enforcement (March 2026)

Law enforcement agencies are rapidly expanding their use of battery-electric vehicles (EVs) for patrol, traffic enforcement, and specialty assignments—driven by fuel and maintenance savings, emissions goals, and the emergence of pursuit-capable platforms. This webinar will provide a practical, decision-focused look at what it takes to evaluate, procure, and operate EVs in law enforcement, including duty-cycle fit, charging strategy, upfitting and equipment loads, vehicle downtime, and total cost of ownership.

Join this webinar to hear candid, first-hand lessons learned from a large municipal police department with a year of experience operating a fleet of Chevy Blazer Police Pursuit Vehicles, plus a retired police chief and change-management consultant who will address the organizational and cultural shifts needed for successful fleet electrification. We’ll also explore how EV pursuit platforms perform under rigorous vehicle dynamics testing—what metrics matter most, how to interpret results, and the key questions to ask as you assess EVs for your agency’s operational needs.

Speakers:
Retired Police Chief Neil Cervenka, Command Insight Consulting LLC 

Neil Cervenka is a retired police chief and public-safety consultant who brings 25 years of law enforcement experience. Neil advanced from Police Officer to Acting Captain in California’s Central Valley before serving as Chief of Police for a small rural agency on California’s north coast. As chief, he launched a social services unit to reduce police interactions with unhoused residents, implemented one of the region’s early EV patrol fleets, built an organizational wellness program, and led citywide emergency management and a department-wide culture and modernization effort.

Neil is a graduate of the California Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute and POST Command College, and he holds a POST Executive Development Certificate (California’s highest law enforcement certification). He earned an MBA from California State University, Stanislaus, and served as President of the California Peace Officers’ Association (2024–2025)


Lieutenant Rusty Rea, Chula Vista Police Department

Rusty Rea is a lieutenant with the Chula Vista Police Department in San Diego County, California, where he has served for 27 years. Over the course of his career, he has worked as a motor officer and agent, street team officer and sergeant, supervisor in the Professional Standards Unit, and in Patrol as an officer, agent, sergeant, and lieutenant. In March 2020, he returned to the Traffic Division, where he continues to serve today.

In addition to overseeing the Traffic Division, Lt. Rea currently manages special events coordination, the department’s Senior Volunteer Program, EVOC operations, and fleet services, along with the many “other duties as assigned” that accompany police leadership roles. He has also served as the department’s rangemaster and a motor instructor, and played a key role in modernizing departmental operations through implementation of a contemporary scheduling and timekeeping system. Born and raised in Southern California, Rusty is an avid motorcyclist and proud father of two.


Moderator
Rachel Ellenberger, Green Seed Collective LLC 

Rachel Ellenberger is an environment and sustainability professional and the Owner & Principal Consultant of Green Seed Collective LLC, providing project management and strategic growth support to mission-driven organizations. She works with nonprofits nationwide—primarily in the Midwest—to design and fund programs and clarify strategic priorities, with a focus on sustainable transportation and renewable energy. Rachel previously spent 3.5 years with Clean Fuels Ohio in progressive leadership roles spanning business development, communications, and fundraising (Business Development & Communications Manager; Director of Business Development & Communications; Director of Development). She also brings policy experience across state, federal, and private sectors and lives in Columbus, Ohio.


This webinar has been approved by NAFA Fleet Management Association for 1.5 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE), which may be applied towards CAFM recertification credit.

When: March 19, 2026. 2-3:30PM ET

Where: Zoom link info will be sent prior to the session. 

Registration Fee: Free, but registration is required. 

Registration Deadline: March 18, 2PM ET. 

Registration is closed.

Sustainable Fleet Technology Series: Cybersecurity and Fleet Technology: Identifying Vulnerabilities and Work Continuity During Crisis (Feb 2026)

Technology is the backbone of metrics for an efficient fleet. Bluetooth capabilities inside vehicles, telematics software integration, and charging and fueling equipment with network connections all capture, share, and store data. They are gateways to your organization’s servers and vulnerable to outdated security patches, integration issues, and bad actors. Join this webinar to identify areas of risk to prepare for and prevent security breaches, and hear lessons learned from a fleet manager who reverted to manual operations during a security breach. 


When: February 26, 2026. 2-3:30PM ET. 

Where: Zoom link info will be sent prior to the event date. 

Registration Fee: Free, but registration is required. 

Registration Deadline: February 26, 2026. 12PM ET

This webinar has been approved by NAFA Fleet Management Association for 1.5 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE), which may be applied towards CAFM recertification credit.

Registration is closed.

Sustainable Fleet Technology Webinar Series: Lowering Carbon Emissions with Alternative Fuels (Dec 2025)

Organizations are constantly looking for practical ways to reduce their carbon footprint and achieve cost savings. This webinar will examine how using alternative vehicle fuel options such as biodiesel, natural gas, and propane can assist in achieving these outcomes. Join us to learn more about the performance characteristics of these alternative fuels, their infrastructure needs and hear real-world case studies from successful fleet applications.

When: December 11, 2-3:30 PM ET

Where: Zoom link information will be sent prior to the event date

Registration Fee: Free

Registration Deadline: December 11, 1 PM ET

This webinar has been approved by NAFA Fleet Management Association for 1.5 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE), which may be applied towards CAFM recertification credit. 

Registration is closed.

2026 100 Best Fleets: Public Contest Kickoff Webinar

The 100 Best Fleets in the Americas program recognizes peak-performing public fleet operations. Join 100 Best Fleets lead judge, Mike Brennan, for this webinar to kick off the 2026 contest! 


In this session, you will:

  • Receive an overview of the 12 Criteria for Excellence for Public Fleets.
  • Walk through a detailed application guide and the application platform.
  • Be able to ask specific questions to the lead judge.

Please note, this kickoff webinar is for the 100 Best Public Fleet Contest. If you are a Commercial fleet, please register for the 100 Best Commercial contest here.

When: December 4, 11-11:45 AM

Where: Zoom link information will be sent prior to the event date

Registration Fee: Free to all but registration is required

Registration Deadline: December 4, 10 AM

Registration is closed.

2026 100 Best Fleets: Commercial Contest Kickoff Webinar

The 100 Best Fleets in the Americas program recognizes peak-performing public fleet operations. Join 100 Best Fleets lead judge, Mike Brennan, for this webinar to kick off the 2026 contest! 


In this session, you will:

  • Receive an overview of the 10 Criteria for Excellence for Commercial Fleets.
  • Walk through a detailed application guide and the application platform.
  • Be able to ask specific questions to the lead judge.

Please note, this kickoff webinar is for the 100 Best Commercial Fleet Contest. If you are a Public fleet, please register for the 100 Best Public contest here.

When: December 4, 12-12:45 PM ET

Where: Zoom link information will be sent prior to the event 

Registration Fee: Free but registration is required

Registration Deadline: December 4, 10 AM

Registration is closed.