GovCast

Government Fleet

GovCast is produced by Government Fleet. It takes a look at the issues surrounding government fleets, and the solutions that can help solve those challenges. Government Fleet editors talk to industry experts and vendors.

  1. 08/26/2025

    Talking Success, Leadership, and Fleet Needs

    In this episode, we sit down with Joe Clark, Fleet Management Director for the city of Durham,  North Carolina, and Assistant Director John Ferguson.    Durham was recognized as a Top 20 Leading Fleet for 2025, and Clark has led the department through major transitions while preparing the next generation of leadership. He shares what he’s most proud of during his tenure, how he’s balanced compliance, efficiency, and sustainability, and the data points that guide his decision-making.    Ferguson offers his perspective on the future of fleet management, the lessons he’s learned about building strong teams in the public sector, and how he plans to carry forward the department’s strategic direction. Together, they reflect on collaboration, leadership, and the evolving role of government fleets, offering valuable insight for both current and aspiring fleet professionals.  Topics discussed:  Key accomplishments from Durham’s fleet transformation Skills essential for future fleet leadership Balancing compliance, efficiency, and sustainability Using data-driven decisions to guide operations Preparing public fleets for the next 3–5 years Building effective fleet teams under public-sector constraints Advice for aspiring government fleet leaders    🚨 Visit Government Fleet to stay up to date on industry news and trends   📰 Sign up for the Government Fleet newsletter!   ⏱ Timestamps ⏱    00:00 Introduction  00:45 Durham’s biggest fleet accomplishments  01:44 Essential qualities for future leadership  02:25 Collaboration that shaped operations  03:59 Balancing challenges such as compliance, efficiency, and sustainability  05:08 Data-driven fleet decisions  06:02 The future of public fleet investment  07:11 Building effective teams in the public sector  11:15 Advice for aspiring fleet leaders  12:48 What's next and final takeaways from both leaders

    15 min
  2. 08/25/2025

    Proactive Approaches to Fleet Management Challenges with Erinn DeJonge

    In this episode, we put the spotlight on the professional journey of Erinn DeJonge, CAFM, who brings a wealth of experience to her role as the fleet business operations manager at Sarasota County Government. DeJonge shared her transition into fleet management, the challenges she's tackling, and the strategies she is implementing to drive efficiency and innovation within the county's fleet operations.   We sat down to talk about her approach to leadership, the importance of proactive planning, and how her background contributes to her current role. DeJonge also offers valuable advice for professionals entering the field of fleet management.   Topics Discussed:   Transitioning into fleet management and initial prioritiesAddressing current challenges in fleet operationsLeveraging a diverse background for strategic advantageBalancing legacy practices with new initiatives Lessons learned from team collaborationVision for the future of Sarasota County's fleetDefining success in fleet operationsEssential tools and habits for effective managementGuidance for newcomers to fleet management🚨 Visit Government Fleet to stay up to date on industry news and trends ➡ https://www.government-fleet.com    📰 Sign up for the Government Fleet newsletter! ➡ https://www.government-fleet.com/newsletter-signup?utm_source=formcms&utm_medium=email_subscriptions_optins&utm_campaign=gf_website_100    ⏱ Timestamps ⏱    00:00 Introduction    00:29 The journey into fleet? What was that like?    02:42 About the new role and what is most exciting going forward?    04:09 Approaching challenges in a new role.    05:46 How a unique work background can translate into fleet work.    07:33 Approaching the transition—learning from people who have held this role vs. putting your own stamp on things.  10:42 Future goals for the fleet in the next year or two, and getting there.  13:07 What does success look like in this role?  14:28 What’s one tool, habit, or resource you can’t do your job without?  15:31 Advice to someone starting in fleet.

    10 min
  3. 04/02/2025

    Fleet Leadership Unplugged: Starting with a Blank Canvas

    In this episode, we sit down with Bradley Norton, the first-ever fleet manager for the Town of Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. With the role being newly created, Bradley shares what it’s been like stepping into a position with no predecessor—and how he's laying the groundwork for a successful fleet operation from day one.   We discuss his early priorities, his strategies to establish the fleet program, and what he’s learned during the transition. Bradley also offers insight into his leadership style, the evolving responsibilities of today’s fleet managers, and advice for others taking on new management roles in the public sector.   Topics discussed:   Establishing a fleet program from the ground up.Navigating early challenges in a new management position.Evolving role of the modern fleet manager.Advice for new fleet managers starting out.🚨 Visit Government Fleet to stay up to date on industry news and trends   📰 Sign up for the Government Fleet newsletter! 🎧    ⏱ Timestamps ⏱    00:00 Introduction    1:21 Priorities since stepping into this role.    2:07 What has been important during this transition and how is this being executed?    2:55 Biggest challenge when taking on a new management role.    4:14 Work style and focusing on fleet in a different way.      5:15 The evolution of the fleet manager role. 7:04 One piece of advice for other fleet managers starting a new role.

    10 min
  4. 02/19/2025

    Fleet Leadership Unplugged with Cedric Roberts

    What does it take to lead a major municipal fleet? In this interview, we sit down with Cedric Roberts, CAFM, Fleet Director for the City of Birmingham, to explore his journey into fleet management, the unexpected challenges he faced along the way, and the leadership lessons that shaped his career. Cedric shares insights on how the industry has evolved, common misconceptions about fleet management, and the importance of educating the public on its critical role. He also discusses strategies for maintaining balance in a high-pressure environment and the one piece of advice he would give his younger self. Don’t miss this deep dive into fleet leadership, industry shifts, and the mindset needed to navigate the challenges of today’s fleet operations. Watch now and gain valuable takeaways from a seasoned fleet professional! Topics Discussed: • The journey into #fleetmanagement and unexpected industry challenges. • Leadership skills that drive success in #publicfleet operations. • Common misconceptions about #fleet and how to educate the public. • Strategies for managing stress and maintaining #worklifebalance in a demanding industry.#governmentleadership #governmentfleet Visit Government Fleet to stay up to date on industry news and trends ➡ https://www.government-fleet.com 📰 Sign up for the Government Fleet newsletter! ➡ https://www.government-fleet.com/newsletter-signup?utm_source=formcms&utm_medium=email_subscriptions_optins&utm_campaign=gf_website_100 ⏱ Timestamps ⏱ 00:00 Introduction 00:32 The journey into fleet and some unexpected situations. 05:43 What is takes to become a better fleet leader. 07:12 What has changed the most since starting in fleet. 08:04 Misconceptions around the fleet industry and how fleet leaders can do more to educate the public about what they do. 11:20 Keeping a balance in the workplace. 14:03 Growing your support group for success. 17:09 Advice for a younger Cedric Roberts. 19:37 Planning ahead and what's new for the fleet.

    21 min
  5. 09/20/2024

    Government Strategies for Safer Fleets and Lower Costs

    Learn about the changes governments can expect as EVs become more prevalent. In this episode, our subject matter experts break down how governments can increase their recoveries through collision management. Plus, what governments are doing to address the rising costs associated with body repair. Element Fleet Management's Bill Collins, Managing Sales Director, Government, and Mark Iorillo, Director of Sales and Marketing, discuss how the transition to EVs impacts the Collision Management business, what changes governments can expect, and more. Topics discussed: Factors influencing electrification in the industry, including charging infrastructure, range anxiety, and cost. Decarbonization efforts in government and commercial fleets, impacted by legislation and incentives. Decarbonization initiatives for fleets, including government guidelines and infrastructure investments. 📰 Sign up for the Government Fleet newsletter! ➡ SIGN UP ⏱ Timestamps ⏱ 00:00 Introduction 00:43 What changes can governments expect to see as EVs become more prevalent? 3:26 How can governments increase their recoveries through the Collision Management process? A look at pitfalls that could be seen during the entire collision cycle? 6:52 How can governments use technology to help reduce fleet costs? 9:30 What is being done to address the rising costs associated with body repair and areas governments should prioritize to help minimize cost.

    12 min
  6. 05/31/2024

    Driving Change: Navigating Fleet Electrification and Decarbonization Realities

    Be a part of the discussion around macro considerations driving the transition to electric vehicles, including incentives, mandates, and change management strategies. Then, explore the challenges of decarbonizing fleets in North America, including addressing charging infrastructure, range anxiety, and cost considerations.   Element Fleet Management's Bill Collins, Sales Director, Government, and Avninder Buttar, SVP and Head of Electrification, discuss the need for cultural transformation and coordination across different parts of an organization to successfully transition to electric vehicles.   Topics discussed:   • Factors influencing electrification in the industry, including charging infrastructure, range anxiety, and cost. • Decarbonization efforts in government and commercial fleets, impacted by legislation and incentives. • Decarbonization initiatives for fleets, including government guidelines and infrastructure investments.   📰 Sign up for the Government Fleet newsletter! ➡ https://bob.dragonforms.com/loading.do?omedasite=BOB6226_autogroup&PK=EGFWEBHEAD   ⏱ Timestamps ⏱   00:00 Introduction   00:37 How macro factors influence the trajectory of electrification in the industry.   3:13 What are the prevailing realities that might be slowing down the transition towards electrification?   7:12 How legislation is evolving and impacting the decarbonization efforts within the sector.   12:48 How crucial is effective change management in navigating the challenges posed by decarbonization initiatives?

    17 min

About

GovCast is produced by Government Fleet. It takes a look at the issues surrounding government fleets, and the solutions that can help solve those challenges. Government Fleet editors talk to industry experts and vendors.