I recently returned from the AFLA Conference (American Fleet Leasing Association) in San Diego in September, and I have to say it’s always a wonderful event for me, both as an industry professional and as the Founder and CEO of The CEI Group and DriverCare. What’s unique about the gathering is the caliber of the participants and the program of compelling and vital topics. But what is amazingly good is the chance to celebrate the newest inductees into the Fleet Hall of Fame, which is sponsored by Bobit Business Media.
I know the feeling well because I was inducted last year and, boy, did that feel special. At that time, it was club of less than 50 members. The club now numbers 55 and will grow by three each year beginning 2015; by then, about 65 people will enjoy this status.
Membership is supposed to be representative of those people who have had a lasting impact on the fleet industry and profession, based on their great work and contributions during their careers. Some of us created and/or led large organizations. Some invented profound ways to improve and advance the industry. And some are wonderfully successful and dedicated fleet management professionals and have impacted their employers and colleagues in consistently positive ways, leading teams that perform at the highest levels of efficiency and internal customer service.
I like this club, not because of the status it conveys, but because it gives all of us in the fleet business the chance to recognize people who have done great things. To me, it’s a way to pay back people who, through their creativity, initiative, determination and hard work, blazed new paths and set new standards for all of us to follow.
I take pride in being a member of this club, and I know that my team at CEI and DriverCare take pride as well; they did good at getting us there and should feel the accomplishment as well.
I want to congratulate all of this year’s inductees, who made big and great things happen to get into the Fleet Hall of Fame. I am certain those so deserving will continue to do things bigger and greater, and that their impact will have a lasting effect on the industry and profession.