The Fleet Success Show Podcast

Episode 171: “I’m a Fleet Manager, Now What?” Bridging the Knowledge Gap in Modern Fleet Leadership

Written by Josh Turley | Apr 10, 2025 10:00:00 AM

 

“No one goes to school for fleet management—so if you’re in this role, you’re already on an unconventional journey. The only question is: what are you doing to bridge the gap?”

🚀 Episode Summary

In this episode of The Fleet Success Show, hosts Josh Turley and Tony Yankovich are joined in studio for a rare in-person session during Spirit Week. What unfolds is a masterclass in what it truly takes to succeed as a new fleet manager—whether you're coming up through the shop floor or pivoting in from finance, IT, or another department.

Drawing on 35+ years of experience and 450+ consulting engagements across North America, Tony shares hard-earned insights into the two major career paths that land someone in a fleet manager seat—and more importantly, the gaps each path leaves behind. Whether you're lacking technical knowledge or strategic business management experience, this episode offers concrete solutions to help you grow into the leader your fleet needs.

You'll walk away with actionable ideas—from leveraging CAFM/CPFP certifications to local networking, intentional culture, and even why shadowing your techs might be the best crash course you could ask for.

Key Takeaways:

  • Two Paths, Two Gaps: Shop techs lack management skills; outside hires lack fleet-specific knowledge.
  • CAFM and CPFP: Essential certifications to build business acumen and operational awareness.
  • Intentional Culture: Not fluff—an actual strategy for leading people and improving performance.
  • Invest in Yourself: Books, courses, conferences—no excuses. Leadership is a skill, not a title.
  • The Legacy Factor: Real leadership is measured by how many leaders you develop.

 

👥 Meet the Experts:

Josh Turley

CEO of RTA: The Fleet Success Company. A third-generation leader, Josh brings passion and practicality to the fleet world. Co-author of The Fleet Success Playbook and champion of intentional culture and leadership development.

Tony Yankovich

Fleet hall of fame nominee and senior consultant at RTA. with 35+ years in fleet, with 25 years in consulting, Tony has helped hundreds of fleets improve operations. He's a walking encyclopedia of what works—and what doesn't—in public and private fleet management. 

 

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