NAFA Connection

NAFA is proud to announce that Mark Fields, Executive Vice President of Ford Motor Company and President of The Americas, will deliver a keynote address at NAFA's 2010 Institute & Expo!

Since many within NAFA's membership source the majority of their vehicles from the Detroit Three (GM, Chrysler, and Ford), NAFA is very excited to have Fields speak at I&E.

Fields, who joined Ford Motor Company in 1989, is responsible for all operations involved in the development, manufacturing, marketing, and sales of Ford, Mercury and Lincoln vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and South America.

Don't miss Field's powerful Keynote Address on Monday, April 26 at NAFA's 2010 I&E! High-level, industry-specific executives from GM and Chrysler will also be delivering Keynote addresses.

The Florida Association of Governmental Fleet Administrators (FLAGFA) has joined a coalition of organizations exclusively endorsing and offering to its members the Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) and Certified Automotive Fleet Supervisor (CAFS) programs.

"The agreement between NAFA CAFM or CAFS and FLAGFA is more than just an agreement, it is a partnership that will help the members in both organizations to grow in our chosen profession," said Michael Grace, FLAGFA President.

The CAFM and CAFS programs are the world's preeminent certification programs for individuals proving their expertise in the core disciplines of automotive fleet management.  There are close to 500 CAFM graduates and an additional 25 graduates of the CAFS program, which was only launched in January this year.  Over 415 individuals are currently enrolled in the CAFM/CAFS program.  Both programs are administered by NAFA's professional, full-time staff and directed by a diverse, ten-member Certification Board, with support from university and other fleet organization partners.

"The NAFA CAFM program is the only certification program that proves an individual's expertise in fleet," said Phillip E. Russo, CAE, and NAFA's Executive Director. "Other certification programs may attest that a person has minimum basic knowledge of fleet, but the NAFA CAFM program proves the person is an expert."

In addition to FLAGFA, the CAFM and CAFS programs are exclusively endorsed by NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA), the Rocky Mountain Fleet Management Association ® (RMFMA), and the Conference of State Fleet Administrators (NCSFA). According to Grace, the decision to endorse the CAFM program made a lot of sense for FLAGFA.

"FLAGFA holds two conferences annually (Fall & Spring) with 250 to 375 in attendance.  For the past three years, members of the NAFA Sunshine State chapter have also attended," explained Grace. "Many of us are both members of NAFA and FLAGFA (25 years and 16 years respectively for me) so when DougWeichman, CAFM (NAFA's Senior Vice President and a long time FLAGFA member) approached us regarding the CAFM program, it was an easy decision."

For more information on the CAFM and CAFS programs, please visit http://www.nafa.org/certification.

Businesses everywhere are feeling the pinch of a rough economy.  Budgets often leave little room for new hires, but sometimes extra help is more of a necessity than a luxury.  If you are looking for a way to save money while growing your work force, interns may be the answer.  Hiring an intern can reduce your costs while providing you with the opportunity to "mold" a student into the kind of fleet manager or technician your company desires.

Studies show employees who start out as interns before coming on board full-time usually stick around longer and have better retention rates, according to Claudia Tattanelli chief executive officer of Philadelphia-based research firm Universum Communications which was quoted in an article titled Internships: The Best Places to Start by Lindsey Gerdes.

The use of interns can be an effective method of identifying top candidates.  In an increasingly competitive marketplace, it is important to be selective to ensure that your investment with a potential full-time candidate is well worth the time and expense necessary for proper training. 

"As a rule, employers look for job candidates who have the kind of work-related experience that students can gain through an internship or co-op program," Marilyn Mackes, NACE executive director was quoted as saying in Stock's article. "Participating in an internship or a co-op program is one way students can give themselves a big edge in the job market."

You are not only looking for the best and the brightest; you should be looking for students with specific skills as well.  Many technicians, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics, consider diagnosing hard-to-find troubles one of their most challenging and satisfying duties. For trainee automotive service technician jobs, employers look for people with strong communication and analytical skills.

"Today's automobiles rely heavily upon computer systems and employ advanced technology such as hybrid and electric fueling systems," according to Automotive Schools.com. "This continually-evolving technology requires that aspiring technicians receive a thorough automotive education to stay competitive in the job market."

Once you found a compatible intern, you can negotiate salary. Some internships through colleges or training programs do not require a salary for their students. In some cases, because of the competitiveness of the field, companies are offering higher salaries to interns.

NACE's 2009 Experiential Education Survey found that employers expect to increase the pay they offer college students for internships. The study found they will offer bachelor's-degree-level interns an average hourly wage of $17.13—up 4.9 percent from the average they offered last year's interns.

Hiring an intern can be a great experience for both you and the student. Between the cost savings and the opportunity to personally train someone in the field, it's a win-win situation.

Join us at the FMS (February 24 - 25) and AFMS (February 26 - 28) at the M Resort in Henderson, Nevada. Whether you are new to the fleet industry or a seasoned professional, NAFA provides you with the best education and the latest information.

Fleet Management Seminar
February 24 - 25, 2010

If you are a fleet professional, are you new to fleet? Have less than five years of experience? This course is a great stepping stone in advancing your knowledge and understanding of the dynamic fleet industry. Interactive, and a must for fleet professionals, the Fleet Management Seminar offers you answers. www.nafa.org/fms

• Network with fleet colleagues on an international level.
• Ask questions to help you address your specific projects.
• Share in this interactive and intense classroom environment.

Register at www.nafa.org/exams.  To reserve your seat online, click here. For more details about FMS, please visit www.nafa.org/fms.

Advanced Fleet Management Seminar
February 26 - 28, 2010

At NAFA's Advanced Fleet Management Seminar, you will solve problems and discuss new ideas with NAFA's most experienced and knowledgeable expert instructors. This intense, upper-level course immerses you in the major concepts of fleet management. This seminar covers the eight discipline modules of fleet management for both the public service and commercial sectors.

• An intense, upper-level course.
• Eight interactive sessions covering disciplines in-depth.
• A great study tool for the CAFM or CAFS exam.
• Learn from the experts themselves.

To reserve your seat online, click here. For more details about AFMS, please visit www.nafa.org/afms.

The hotel for the FMS and AFMS is the M Resort in Nevada. For more information on group rates, making reservations and transportation, visit the hotel accommodations page.

Attention CAFM/CAFS Participants: AFMS is the best study tool out there. Who better to learn from than the experts themselves? These expert, seasoned instructors will provide insight, answers, and individual attention, along with a Q&A at the end of each session. After the seminar, take your CAFM or CAFS exam with ease.

"The AFMS is the single biggest help that NAFA will offer to help CAFM and CAFS candidates master the difficult concepts in the curriculum." -- NAFA President Christopher Amos, CAFM, Commissioner of Equipment Services, City of St. Louis.

Reserve your seat for NAFA's Fleet Management Seminar, Advanced Fleet Management Seminar, or our package deal for both seminars! Register by January 31 and save with our early bird pricing. Visit www.nafa.org/fms.

There are many enhancements in store for I&E 2010. Suffice to say it's not the "same old, same old" at NAFA. Think of all the business you can do in two days with nearly 1,000 fleet managers surrounding you.

• The show floor will be the focus of all the fleet managers. All education sessions, workshops, the Public Safety Group's Roadeo, and the Ride and Drive will occur either before or after show hours.
• The Grand Celebration, NAFA's annual opening-night party, will take place on the Expo floor, so business can be done while attendees relax with great food and drink.
• Hotel rates have been slashed by 25 percent from 2009, and the registration fees have been held across the board.
• We will have three Keynote Addresses (Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday) from high-level, industry-specific executives. Confirmed at press time is Mark Fields, Executive Vice President of Ford Motor Company and President of The Americas.

NAFA's I&E Website Has It All, Too!

• At A Glance provides a quick overview of the I&E schedule. 
• Detailed program with a list of educational courses and sessions, networking events, and Expo Floor details. To view the detailed program, click here.
• A new interactive feature called Map Your Show that allows attendees to see who is exhibiting and what products are being showcased. 
• Information on hotel accommodations, making reservations, airline discounts, and other travel details. Government rates are now available at both hotels! 
• How to participate and sign up for NAFA's Habitat for Humanity Day in Detroit.
• Plus so much more! 

Register Today! Click here to register online! Check out NAFA's website at www.nafaiande.org for schedules, the detailed program, hotel and travel rates, and more!

NAFA's I&E attendees come from a wide range of corporations, governments, law enforcement agencies, and utilities. Last year, attendees at I&E managed more than 1.1 million vehicles.

More than 87 exhibitors have already reserved space for NAFA's Institute & Expo, to be held April 24-27 in Detroit, Mich. I&E is the only meeting and exposition that gives you unparalleled access to North American fleet purchasers and decision-makers. Meet face-to-face with hundreds of commercial and government fleet professionals at the largest fleet management event under one roof anywhere.

Benefits of Exhibiting:

• Meet hundreds of fleet managers in just two days under one roof. 
• Access to the best prospects for your products in all industry segments.
• Networking opportunities with your current customers, potential buyers, and industry leaders.
• Listings in the Official Show Guide, which acts as a year-long buyers guide for attendees, as well as online.

Whether you are a newcomer to the fleet profession, a service provider, or a long-time fleet professional, I&E gives you the chance develop long-lasting relationships on both the professional and personal level.

Be part of the premier fleet management event. Visit www.nafaiande.org. Call our sales team at 703-934-4700 or e-mail nafa@cmgexpo.com for help selecting your booth or sponsorship opportunity. Look for NAFA's Exhibitor Prospectus coming soon in your mail!

Flexible Options for I&E Sponsorships!

• Reinforce name and brand recognition for your company
• Gain more visibility for your company on the exhibit floor
• Increase worldwide exposure
• Stand out from your competitors and give your products and services an edge
• Maximize your budget options with the many levels to choose from
• Enhance your company's goodwill and standing in the industry

Pledge your support today and let everyone know you actively support the industry's preeminent Association for fleet solutions for all fleet professionals. Request your pledge sponsorship form and return it today. Please contact Scott Groves at 770-576-4971 or e-mail nafa@cmgexpo.com.

Susan Docherty, GM Vice President Sales, Service, and Marketing, announced that James M. Campbell, 45, has been named General Manager - Chevrolet, effective immediately. In his previous assignment, Campbell was responsible for GM's Fleet and Commercial Operations.

"Jim has a strong track record of building relationships and partnerships with dealers and customers, and deep Chevrolet experience," Docherty said. "His energy, drive for results and willingness to take risks are great assets for leading the growing global Chevrolet brand."

Before running GM's Fleet and Commercial Operations, Campbell held various positions in field sales, retail incentives, marketing and customer relationship management.  He has played important roles in many product launches including the Chevrolet Impala, Monte Carlo, Colorado, and Corvette.

Campbell, who joined GM in 1988, replaces Brent Dewar, previously Vice President Global Chevrolet.  Dewar has elected to retire effective April 1, 2010 to dedicate more time to his family and to pursue personal interests. Until then, Dewar will work closely with Campbell to ensure a smooth transition at Chevrolet and also will be on a special assignment supporting Mark Reuss, GM President North America, in his new role.

"During his 31 years with GM, Brent made a difference in multiple assignments, including key roles in Brazil and Europe, launching the award-winning American Revolution campaign and applying his environmental passion to drive the very successful gas-friendly to gas-free marketing strategy," Docherty said.  "We respect his decision to retire early next year to spend more time with his family, and want to thank him for all his contributions.  He will be missed."

Volkswagen and Suzuki Motor Corporation have reached a common understanding to establish a close long-term strategic partnership. A framework agreement has been signed by representatives of both companies today.

In terms of global presence and product diversity, the partnership marks an important step towards the future for both Volkswagen and Suzuki. The companies plan a joint approach to the growing worldwide demand for more environmentally friendly vehicles. The management of Volkswagen and Suzuki have concluded that the complementary strengths of each company make for a perfect fit in exploiting their respective advantages as well as rising to the challenge of the global market.

Both companies will establish a cooperative relationship while respecting each other's independence as a stand-alone entity. To support a smooth development of this relationship, Volkswagen will purchase 19.9% of Suzuki's issued shares. The closing of the transaction is subject to approval of the relevant authorities and is expected in January 2010. Suzuki intends to invest up to one-half of the amount received from Volkswagen into shares of Volkswagen. Both companies will form a long-term strategic partnership based on this, which will support their successful strategies in these challenging times.

As demand continues to rise for smaller cars and for powertrains with higher fuel efficiency and lower CO2 output, Volkswagen and Suzuki will offer a compelling solution for customers in emerging markets buying a car for the first time and also for customers in advanced economies seeking to lower their CO2 footprint while still enjoying the freedom of transport offered by an exciting range of cars.

Government of Canada Commits to Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Announced on December 7, the Canadian Government has released draft regulations to limit greenhouse gas emissions from new vehicles, starting with the 2011 model year. Federal Environment Minister Jim Prentice highlighted that the goal of the regulations will be to help create a common North American standard to regulating greenhouse gas emissions from new vehicles.

The Government of Canada remains committed to fighting climate change, and this step will continue to assist in that fight. Canada and the United States will together work towards a common North American approach to lessen greenhouse gas emissions by introducing specific requirements over the 2011-2016 model years.

Canada will be developing tough regulatory requirements to limit greenhouse gas emissions through the authority of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999.  This announcement is a progressive step since the process was first announced by the Minister in April 2009. 

A consultation period with provinces, territories and stakeholders will begin to take place in the short term.  Following the consultation process, the proposed regulations are expected to be published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, for a 60-day formal public comment period.

CARB to Provide Flexibility to Fleets

The California Air Resources Board (ARB) has directed its staff to return to the Board next April with a new provision that would provide truck fleets more flexibility in cleaning up their diesel emissions under the state's Truck and Bus Rule. In comments to the ARB, NAFA had urged an extension in the compliance deadlines. "Fleet managers are supportive of reducing particulate matter (PM) and NOx emissions from diesel emissions. However, the compliance deadlines, coupled with the significant costs associated with meeting the requirements, have created a substantial burden for many fleets, particularly public fleets and small and medium-sized private fleets," NAFA said in its comments. ARB passed the diesel truck and bus rule last December requiring truck owners to install diesel exhaust filters on their rigs by January 1, 2011, with nearly all vehicles upgraded by 2014. The regulation is estimated to prevent 9,400 premature deaths over its lifetime.

To reduce diesel emissions and improve air quality and public health, the ARB adopted a Diesel Risk Reduction Plan in 2000 and has already passed regulations addressing urban buses, garbage trucks, school bus and truck idling, stationary engines, transport refrigeration units, cargo handling equipment at ports and rail yards, off-road vehicles, port trucks and other sources.

For more information on the Statewide Bus and Truck Regulation, go here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/regact/2008/truckbus08/truckbus08.htm

IRS Issues Standard Business Mileage Rate for 2010

The Internal Revenue Service has issued the 2010 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.
Beginning on January 1, 2010, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be:

• 50 cents per mile for business miles driven
• 16.5 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes
• 14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations

The new rates for business, medical and moving purposes are slightly lower than 2009. The mileage rates for 2010 reflect generally lower transportation costs compared to a year ago. The standard mileage rate for business is based on an annual study of the fixed and variable costs of operating an automobile.

EPA Delays Decision on Renewable Fuels

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced it is delaying until mid-2010 a decision on whether to allow higher blends of ethanol in gasoline, but said preliminary testing suggests newer engines can handle more of the additive. A final decision will not come until next summer, when the Energy Department is expected to finish testing the long-term environmental impact of higher ethanol blends.

Congress Acts to Help GM and Chrysler Dealers

Congress has passed and sent to the White House a funding bill, which includes a provision to restrict the ability of General Motors and Chrysler to close thousands of auto dealerships as part of their restructuring. The dealer rights provision will provide affected General Motors and Chrysler dealers and their respective automakers with an arbitration process to resolve ongoing concerns about recent dealership closures.

Governors' Association Urges Action to Address Real ID Law

In a letter to congressional leadership, the National Governors Association disclosed that as many as 36 states will not meet the end-of-year deadline to be incompliance with the federal Real ID law. Another 13 states have passed laws that prohibit participation in Real ID, which states have long viewed as an unfunded federal mandate that could violate their residents' privacy.

The Real ID law requires all states to start issuing more secure driver's licenses by the end of this year. Residents of states that do not comply with the deadline will not be able to board commercial aircraft or enter federal buildings using their driver's licenses beginning in January.

In their letter, the governors urged Congress to approve a replacement version of Real ID — known as Pass ID — that would give states more time and flexibility to upgrade their driver's licenses, including the processes used to check applicants' identities. While legislation creating the replacement program is supported by the Obama administration and cleared the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee in July, it has not yet reached the floor of either the House or the Senate.

EPA Issues Finding on Greenhouse Gases

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa Jackson announced December 7 that the Obama administration will make a formal finding that greenhouse gases pose an imminent threat to public welfare. The decision had been widely expected, particularly because of the onset of climate change talks in Copenhagen, Denmark. The administration's finding clears the way for EPA to regulate virtually every aspect of the American economy, especially the use of on-road vehicles.

New Senate Climate Change Proposal

On December 10 Senators John Kerry (D-MA), Joseph Lieberman (I-CT) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) released the framework for a legislative proposal on climate change and energy. The framework, a four-page document, was sent to President Obama outlining their plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 17 percent from 2005 levels by 2020 and 80 percent from 2005 levels by 2050. The 17 percent target matches the 17 percent target in a bill that passed the House in June. The three senators hope that the framework will attract the support of both Republicans and Democrats.

Toyota announced significant environmental accomplishments over the last year in its ninth annual North America Environmental Report that was recently released. The report is an update on progress toward the goals and targets in the company's 2011 Environmental Action Plan.

The 2009 North America Environmental Report details Toyota's efforts in six key areas: Energy and Climate Change, Recycling and Improved Resource Use, Substances of Concern, Air Quality, Environmental Management and Cooperation with Society.

Below are a few highlights from the 2009 North America Environmental Report:

• Introduction of the third-generation Prius, with an innovative, optional rooftop‑mounted solar panel, and improved fuel efficiency.
• Introduction of the Lexus HS 250h, which includes Ecological Plastics in approximately 30% of the combined interior and luggage areas.
• Installation of the second-largest solar panel array in the U.S. at the company's parts center in Ontario, California.
• Reduction of 16% in energy consumption at Toyota's plant in Georgetown, Kentucky.
• Installation of water-borne paint systems at the company's plants in Princeton, Indiana, and Woodstock, Ontario, which lessen emissions of volatile organic compounds.

Other accomplishments cited in the report include advanced vehicle technologies, operations, and partnerships.  To view the 2009 North America Environmental Report, visit: http://www.toyota.com/environmentreport. This year, for the first time, the full report will only be available electronically, further reducing Toyota's environmental impact.

Veolia Transportation Services, Inc., North America's largest private provider of public transit services, has awarded Clean Energy Fuels Corp. a contract to build, operate, and maintain a compressed natural gas (CNG) bus fueling station at Veolia facilities in downtown Los Angeles.

Under contract with the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro), Veolia will begin operating new environmentally friendly CNG buses for the agency in April 2010, as Metro accelerates efforts to replace older diesel-fueled buses with new CNG models. The Veolia-operated transit buses are deployed in Metro's North Los Angeles County service area.

Construction of the new Veolia/Clean Energy CNG station will begin in January 2010, with completion set for mid-2010. CNG fuel requirements are projected at more than 420,000 gasoline-gallon-equivalents in the first year of the Veolia station's operations.

Clean Energy works with Veolia at other public transit agencies across the country, including Foothill Transit and Valley Metro in Phoenix, Arizona. The new CNG station supporting a Metro contractor will be Clean Energy's second project of this type. The company also partnered with Southland Transit, Inc., for a fueling facility for CNG bus service to the San Gabriel Valley section of LA County.

The Center for Biological Diversity's Climate Law Institute released a report demonstrating that President Obama has clear legal authority to commit the United States to reducing greenhouse gas pollution. The report, titled Yes, He Can: President Obama's Power to Make an International Climate Commitment Without Waiting for Congress, concludes that the President need not wait for Congress to act before taking strong action to reduce U.S. emissions.

"President Obama's hands are not tied by Congress's lack of action or the grossly inadequate cap-and-trade bills currently under debate. President Obama can lead, rather than follow, by using his power under the Clean Air Act and other laws to achieve deep and rapid greenhouse emissions reductions from major polluters," said Center attorney Kevin Bundy, the report's lead author. "Obama can use his authority to make a binding agreement in Copenhagen without additional action from Congress. The Constitution and existing domestic environmental laws give President Obama all the power he needs to join with other nations in making a real commitment to solve the climate crisis."

The report cites prominent legal scholars and U.S. Supreme Court opinions recognizing the President's broad power to make binding international agreements that do not need to be ratified by a two-thirds majority vote in the Senate. For example, the President could enter into either a "congressional-executive" agreement under authority already granted by Congress, or a "sole executive" agreement based on his own constitutional powers.

The report also details the President's broad authority to reduce domestic greenhouse gas emissions under existing environmental laws, including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and National Environmental Policy Act. The release of the report follows yesterday's important finding by the Environmental Protection Agency that greenhouse gases endanger public health and welfare. That decision will facilitate comprehensive measures to curb greenhouse gas pollution under the Clean Air Act.

The report is available at the Center's website: www.biologicaldiversity.org.

One year after promising to become the leading manufacturer in fuel economy, Hyundai delivered by topping the latest U.S. Environmental Protection Agency fuel economy report. Hyundai passed all major manufacturers in Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE), including traditional leaders like Honda and Toyota. The report demonstrates the effectiveness of Hyundai's value-driven fuel-efficiency strategyand substantiates Hyundai's leadership in the race to achieve the government-mandated 2016 CAFE standard of 35.5 miles per gallon.

The EPA 2009 Light-Duty Automotive Technology and Fuel Economy Trends Report indicates that Hyundai has the highest MY 2009 laboratory 55/45 fuel economy with 30.1 miles per gallon (mpg). Hyundai is also the only automaker to top 30 mpg in the report.

"Our thoughtful application of cost-effective, fuel-efficient technologies has helped us achieve our goal of leading the industry in fuel economy ahead of schedule," said John Krafcik, President and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. "Now we hope to extend that leadership with the launch of our new direct injection, turbocharging and lithium-polymer hybrid technologies, all of which will be a part of the 2011 Sonata lineup launching early next year."

Hyundai is aligning global R&D resources at its engineering centers in California, Michigan, Korea, India, and Germany to develop the Blue Drive technologies needed to achieve fuel efficiency goals. Under the Hyundai Blue Drive strategy, technologies such as direct injection, turbocharging, hybrid drive systems and a number of others will all play larger roles in powering future models to offer consumers lower emissions, enhanced performance and more miles per gallon.

NAFA's Personal Use for Fleets CD-ROM

The NAFA Personal Use for Fleets CD-ROM is a comprehensive tool to instruct and assist in gaining a greater understanding of this core competency for successful fleet management. The CD-ROM format proves easy navigation and access to many samples, reference documents, and complicated IRS rules and regulations. Order your copy today!

Driver Transportation Options (Print & e-Download)

This 154-page compilation of information was developed for a manager's review and evaluation of providing business transportation to employees. (An updated version of the former Driver Reimbursement Option).

Lifecycle Cost Analysis for Fleets (CD-ROM)

A narrated CD-ROM, Lifecycle Cost Analysis for Fleets is intended to assist fleet managers in implementing the use of analytical financial modeling. This intensive, comprehensive 2 1/2 hour presentation features vehicle lifecycle cost analysis (LCA) materials and features engaging visual and auditory aids. The LCA technique forces consideration of all the relevant costs incurred over the lifetime of a vehicle or activity.

NAFA Vehicle Classification System (e-Download)

Comprehensive and flexible enough to apply to any fleet application, the NAFA Standard Vehicle & Equipment Classification Code addresses the deficiencies of the various classification schemes in use today. With the NAFA system, any given vehicle or equipment fits only one category - and other classification schemes can be cross referenced into it.

Fleet Maintenance Job Descriptions (e-Download)

This convenient e-download presents a collection of 15 model job descriptions for positions typical to many fleet maintenance organizations, with a matrix connecting positions to ASE tests. Job descriptions are not NAFA-endorsed, but Member-collected samples conveniently provided in Word format.

Request for Proposals Guide (CD-ROM)

Instructional CD-ROM with step-by-step instruction for preparing an effective RFP. Save time by directly accessing numerous reference documents and samples, including Process Flow and Statement of Work. Valuable tool for experienced RFP writers and novices alike.

Data Management (Audio CD)

Audio CD Course offered at FMI 2004- featured faculty: Christopher Amos.

Managing Managed Competition (Audio CD)

Managing Managed Competition - Audio CD Course offered at FMI 2004 - featured faculty: Paul Lauria and Randy Owen

MVR Program in Compliance (Audio CD)

Is Your MVR Program in Compliance with the FCRA? Two CD Set - Audio CD Course offered at FMI 2004 - featured faculty: Luanne Peterpaul, Esq.

New Diesel Emission (Audio CD)

New Diesel Emission Requirements and Impacts on Fleet Managers - Two CD Set Audio CD Course offered at FMI 2004 - featured faculty: Craig Weerts

"With technology becoming increasingly more important in fleet management, NAFA's Fleet Information Management Guide is a rare gem of information for fleet managers," said Project Leader Doug Weichman, CAFM, Director, Fleet Management, Palm Beach County, Fla. "It provides an excellent overview of the technology that we all have to interface with every day."

Detailed chapters explore all aspects of technology, including:

• Information Infrastructure
• Computer Software
• Researching the Internet
• Telematics
• Security, Backup, and Recovery
• Ergonomic Computing

NAFA's FIMG is intended for fleet managers at a large corporation, a government entity, utility, university, or any other fleet sector.

Available in three formats to meet your project needs.

• The e-download gives you instant access and portability. Store it virtually anywhere — in a "NAFA document folder" on your computer, or on your flash drive to take with you! NAFA Members and Affiliates, your membership discount gives you a 30 percent savings off the non-Member price.
• The CD version offers the same practical abilities as the e-download and is a product ready to share with Members of your fleet management team or add to the department's reference shelves. Please wait three to six weeks for delivery. NAFA Members and Affiliates, your membership discount gives you a 40 percent savings off the non-Member price.
• The soft-cover, spiral-bound book can stay on your shelf for easy access. Please wait three to six weeks for delivery. NAFA Members and Affiliates, your membership discount gives you a 30 percent savings off the non-Member price.

NAFA provides space in each issue of the FleetFOCUS for companies and organizations to advertise career opportunities in the fleet industry. Members also can market themselves to potential employers. If you're interested in this opportunity, make your listings 200 words or fewer. Links to complete job descriptions on the company's website are suggested. Please note all of the materials a candidate must supply to be considered for the position (e.g., resume, salary history, municipal application, etc.). To take advantage of this service, e-mail your ad to Patrick McCarren at pmccarren@nafa.org.

Regional Fleet Sales Manager - South-East

Corporate Yard Facilities/Fleet Services Manager - Santa Ana, CA

Resume Bank

NAFA is going one step further to help those in the industry gain employment. For a small fee, NAFA will send resumes to any prospective employer who places an ad on the Career Network Section of the NAFA website. For a small cost, employers will be provided with new, up-to-date resumes that fit the job.

There is still no charge to submit a resume to the resume bank. To be included in the resume bank, please send a current version of your resume to Maureen Smith, NAFA, Inc., 125 Village Blvd., Suite 200, Princeton, NJ 08540; or fax it to 609-452-8004. Resumes can also be e-mailed to Maureen Smith at msmith@nafa.org. 

A few tips and reminders: If you would like to include a generic cover letter to be sent to potential employers, please include that as part of your resume. Make sure your home address, home phone or cell phone, and personal e-mail address are included on your resume. Potential employers will contact you directly.  NAFA has a number of fleet-related job openings on the Jobs Wanted/Available page (click here).

NAFA's local Chapters across Canada and the United States offer Members numerous opportunities to meet colleagues and receive valuable fleet management education. Each year, more than 100 NAFA Chapter meetings provide top-level education and training on a wide variety of timely topics.

January is a busy month:

January 10
Mid-West Chapter - Manufacturer Update / Omaha Auto Show
Location: TBD - Omaha, NE

January 12
North Central Chapter - Taxation Impact to Fleets
Location: TBD
Contact: Leroy Pavek, 952.997.1276, Leroy.pavek@agstar.com

January 14
Ontario Chapter - Meeting
Location: TBD, Ottawa, ON
Contact: Fran MacKenzie-Peacock, 905.459.1810, fran@bramptonchrysler.com

January 20
New England - State of Chapter Fleet Roundtable
Location: Holiday Inn, Mansfield, MA
Contact: Karen Doyon, (401)757-2214, kdoyon@sperianprotection.com

January 21
NAFA NY Chapter - SAE Meeting
Location: JF Kennedy International Airport
Contact: http://www.nafa.org/Source/SAENAFAJANMeeting.pdf 

January 22
Michigan Chapter North American International Auto Show and Business Meeting
Location: Compuware Headquarters, Detroit, MI
Contact: Steven Pederson, steven.pederson@vpsiinc.com, 248. 597.3522

January 28
St. Louis Gateway Chapter Auto Show
Location: Holiday Inn Select / America’s Center, St. Louis, MO
Contact: Bob Hornsey, RHornsey@stlouisco.com, (314) 615-5333

• Preventive maintenance and warranty operations
• Shop operations
• Environmental issues
• Inventory management
• Benchmarking staff performance
• Outsourcing
• Maintenance staffing
  

• The e-download gives you instant access and portability –- store it virtually anywhere: in your own "NAFA document folder" on your computer, or on your flash drive to take with you.
• The CD version offers the same practical abilities as the e-downloadable format and is a product that's ready to be shared with other members of your fleet management team or added to the department's reference shelves.

Fuel Management Guide

Designed with you in mind, the guide will help you understand fuel supply and demand dynamics to better anticipate price changes; understand key fuel standards; and identify appropriate policies, activities, and technologies to improve fuel efficiency. A valuable appendix, comprised of additional references, makes this an "evergreen" learning tool, as links to current websites provide direct access to current information on fuels and pricing, as well as from government authorities, non-profit and Association websites, and manufacturers.

Information is easily accessible, as detailed chapters explore the issues associated with the centralized fuel management of conventional fuels, a variety of tools to fuel decentralized fleets, and alternative fuels and advanced technology vehicles, including forms of hybrid drive trains currently available.

The guide is available in three formats to meet your project and budgetary needs:

• The e-download gives you instant access and portability – store it virtually anywhere: in your own "NAFA document folder" on your computer, or on your flash drive to take with you.
• The CD version offers the same practical abilities as the e-downloadable format and is a product ready to share with other members of your fleet management team or add to the department's reference shelves.
• The more traditional, spiral-bound, soft-cover book provides easy use, especially when you're sharing references with colleagues. Order today!

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