The Future of Fleet Management: A Conversation with NAFA CEO Bill Schankel

“Most businesses don’t happen without a fleet. That’s important.”
— Bill Schankel, CEO of NAFA

If you’ve ever wondered who’s championing the interests of fleet professionals at a national level, look no further than Bill Schankel, CEO of NAFA Fleet Management Association. In this special episode of The Fleet Success Show, host Mark Canson dives deep into the evolving landscape of fleet management, the rise of professional certifications, and why collaboration and education are the keys to a thriving industry.

Whether you're a seasoned fleet leader or just starting your career, the insights in this episode are packed with actionable advice, especially as NAFA’s annual I&E Conference approaches on April 28–30 in Long Beach, CA. (More on that below!)

Q&A with Bill Schankel: Shaping the Future of Fleet

Q: How did you get involved with fleet, and how did that lead you to NAFA?

Bill Schankel: I come from the world of professional associations—telecom, scientific societies, construction trades. But when I joined NAFA in 2017, I immediately connected with the fleet industry because of the people. Over time, I immersed myself in their challenges, and in 2020 I became CEO.

Q: What has been NAFA’s biggest initiative in recent years?

One of our key initiatives has been revitalizing regional networking and local in-person events post-pandemic. We hosted nearly 100 events last year and are on track to exceed that this year. These local groups help reconnect professionals and provide learning opportunities, from informal meetups to full-day educational sessions.

Q: How is NAFA evolving its education and certification offerings?

We’ve revamped our online education—including Fleet 101 and certificate programs—to move beyond passive content. Now, they’re interactive, with knowledge checkpoints and real-world applications. We also perform Job Task Analyses every few years to ensure content stays relevant to what today’s fleet professionals are actually doing.

Q: Why should young or new fleet professionals join NAFA?

Because no one goes to college for fleet management! NAFA fills that educational gap. But more importantly, NAFA’s strength is its members—an entire community ready to mentor, support, and collaborate. New fleet managers need those peers and resources to avoid feeling isolated and overwhelmed.

Q: What role is NAFA playing in fleet advocacy?

We’ve expanded from federal to state-level advocacy, especially with the rise of clean fleet regulations. Our goal is to bring common-sense solutions to lawmakers by educating them on real-world fleet operations and challenges. Fleet touches everything—public safety, education, construction—so it’s crucial that professionals have a seat at the table.

Q: What’s NAFA doing to address the technician shortage?

We’re collaborating with ASE, veterans organizations, and technical schools to raise awareness that fleet offers career paths beyond the wrench. We’ve added a Technician Track at I&E, created the Technician of the Year Award, and are developing mentorship pipelines to train the next generation of fleet pros.

Q: What are the biggest trends on the horizon for fleet?

Technology, regulation, and workforce development. Fleet managers must manage change at a faster pace than ever—AI, EVs, new vehicle types, evolving compliance requirements. NAFA’s role is to be a lighthouse—offering clear, up-to-date guidance so fleets can adapt confidently.

Key Takeaways for Fleet Managers

• Get Involved: Whether through NAFA, regional groups, or other organizations, engagement opens doors to education and mentorship.
  
  
• Invest in Certification: Staying current isn’t optional. NAFA’s modern CAFM programs reflect today’s fleet realities.
  
  
• Join the Conversation: Advocacy starts with your voice. Fleet needs representation in every regulation and innovation discussion.
  
  
• Support Your Techs: Recognition and education for technicians today builds the fleet leaders of tomorrow.
  
  
• Keep Evolving: Fleet success hinges on adaptability. Stay open to change and proactive in your strategy.
  
  

Meet RTA at NAFA’s I&E Conference!

Join RTA: The Fleet Success Company and thousands of fleet professionals at NAFA’s 2025 I&E Conference, April 28–30 in Long Beach, CA. Whether you're a fleet manager, supplier, or technician, this event offers unparalleled education, networking, and innovation.

👉 Stop by the RTA booth to meet our fleet experts, talk shop, and explore how our Fleet Maintenance Management Software can transform your operation.

📍 Register at NAFAInstitute.org