From Fleet Manager to Public Works Leader: How One Person Turned Fleet into a Career Catalyst

This article is based on a recent episode of The Fleet Success Show podcast. Watch the full episode here: 

Fleet professionals often wonder, "Where can this job take me?" For Harold Siguenza, the answer was clear: all the way to the top.

In this exclusive interview on The Fleet Success Show, Harold, now the Assistant Director of Public Works for the City of Avondale, explains how his journey through budgeting, fleet operations, and public service leadership proves that fleet isn’t a dead-end job. It’s a launchpad.

If you’re using fleet maintenance management software, overseeing a shop, or managing vehicle lifecycle costs, this Q&A is for you.

Who is Harold Siguenza, and how did he get into fleet?

Harold:
I started out in my dad’s used car dealership, cleaning cars, selling them, learning customer service. Later, I got my Master’s in Public Administration and ended up as a budget analyst in Maricopa County. That’s where I first interacted with fleet, and eventually transitioned into managing the county’s Equipment Services division. I didn’t come from a wrench-turning background, but I knew how to lead, budget, and advocate for resources.

What was the biggest surprise about working in fleet?

Harold:
How undervalued and misunderstood it is, especially by finance departments. I saw it from both sides. When I was in budgeting, I thought fleet had what it needed. But once I was inside, I realized they weren’t asking for what they actually needed. That’s when I coined the phrase:

“Closed mouths don’t get fed.”

If you don’t use data and your fleet maintenance system to advocate for more funding, leadership won’t know what’s missing.

How can fleet managers get better at budget advocacy?

Harold:
Learn to speak the language of finance. Use your fleet maintenance software to track replacement schedules, cost per mile, and downtime. Present that to budget teams clearly, and tell the story behind the numbers.

Don’t assume leadership knows your needs. They won’t act unless you ask.

How did Harold’s experience with Fleet Pros shape his leadership?

Harold:
Joining Fleet Pros changed everything for me. At first, I was voluntold to serve as treasurer, but I stuck with it because I saw the value. It taught me how to collaborate, lead in a nonprofit setting, and advocate for technician training.

Fleet Pros is doing something powerful right now with our Fleet Management 101 Series. It’s designed to help techs and leads understand what it takes to become a fleet manager. We’re building the next generation of leaders.

What’s your philosophy on succession planning in fleet?

Harold:
I believe it's a leadership mandate to train your replacement. It’s your legacy. I constantly ask my team: “Where do you want to be in five years?”

If we can help you grow into a leadership role, here or elsewhere, that’s a win.

I’ve learned that empowering your team doesn’t weaken your position. It strengthens your operation.

How important is fleet maintenance management software in this process?

Harold:
It’s essential. Your fleet management system helps you track vehicle lifecycle, preventive maintenance compliance, parts inventory, and shop efficiency. It’s not just a tool, it’s your evidence.

If you’re trying to justify budget increases, replacements, or headcount, your vehicle fleet maintenance software provides the hard data.

What advice do you have for fleet professionals looking to advance?

Harold:
Reflect. Are you fulfilled? Are you growing? If not, look around. Learn your customers’ operations. Ride along with solid waste, transit, or street teams. Understand the bigger picture.

And don’t hide in your shop. Get out there. Network. Join associations. Use tools like your fleet maintenance management system not just to run your shop, but to lead it.

Final thoughts: Is fleet a stepping stone?

Harold:
Absolutely. Fleet teaches you operations, budgeting, leadership, and customer service. You’re not “just” a fleet manager, you’re a Renaissance leader. The skills you learn managing a shop prepare you for bigger roles in public works, city leadership, and beyond.

If I did it, so can you.

Ready to Level Up Your Fleet Operation?

Whether you’re managing preventive maintenance schedules or planning your next leadership move, it starts with the right systems.

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