One of the best parts of the industry, as most involved would agree, is the people.

In an industry like fleet, it's easy to get lost in all of the tech, numbers, and operations. We forget to stop and admire those who keep it all running.

The Fleet Meets series attempts to eradicate that and get to know the humans behind it.

In this edition, meet Brett Ashley Bridges of BBL Fleet. She has more than 15 years of experience in project management and is currently the vice president of communications and client services. Automotive Fleet connected with Bridges on her career, AFLA, advice, and what animal she'd be if she had to choose.

Yes, that's right. And her answer to that one was gold.

Looking back at when you first entered the fleet industry, what did you think your career would look like and how does that compare with where you are today?

Bridges: When I first entered the fleet industry, I didn't have a clear picture of what my trajectory would look like, and I expected my path to be focused primarily on learning the sales and services side of the business. My goal was simply to dive in and become as knowledgeable as I could.

As my career progressed, I came to understand BBL Fleet’s approach to fleet management overall, the role each team member plays, and got a comprehensive understanding of the services we provide and the results driven from it all. I had opportunities to grow that I never anticipated and as I became increasingly involved, I eventually evolved from a sales and projects role up to where I am now.

Looking at where I am today, the biggest difference is that my career has become much more relationship-driven than I originally thought. While the destination is different from what I imagined when I started, it's been far more rewarding because it combines industry expertise and meaningful connections that positively impact others.

You came into fleet without a traditional fleet background. What initially surprised you most about the industry, and what ultimately made you want to build your career in it?

Bridges: The answer is the same for both questions: the people.

Fleet came along unexpectedly, so I was starting from scratch from a technical and relationship standpoint. However, I was immediately embraced by both my team at BBL Fleet and countless members of the industry who made introductions, imparted wisdom and advice and even let me tag along until I forged my own network. (Special thanks to Pam Hackett and Debbie Struna on that last point.)

I’ve been part of different industries from nonprofits and education to banking and govcon but have never witnessed the level of comradery I have within fleet. In the past I was used to seeing competition amongst colleagues, but now I find myself in spaces where people freely exchange ideas, collaboratively solve problems and challenge for growth. That, in combination with continuous learning and ways to make my own impact, is what made fleet feel less like an industry I joined and more like a community where I wanted to grow my career.

How has your understanding of what fleet clients need changed as you've moved through different roles and into communications and client services?

Bridges: My understanding of fleet clients’ needs has become much stronger. From an outside perspective it's easy to think fleet is simply about operating vehicles day-to-day, but I quickly realized it's connected to nearly every part of a business, from safety and compliance to finance, operations, sustainability, and employee experience.

Over time, I’ve learned that clients are really looking for a strategic partner who can help them improve efficiency, control costs, support drivers, navigate change and communicate effectively. Being closer to clients has shown me that success isn’t just about providing solutions, it is about listening and understanding their challenges so we can solve problems together.

What does stepping into the vice president of communications and client services role mean to you, and what are you most excited to take on in this next chapter?

Bridges: BBL Fleet has an outstanding culture rooted in best-in-class service and innovation. In this next phase, we will continue evolving the client experience through enhanced processes and stronger partnerships that create greater alignment from onboarding through ongoing account management. Our clients are at the heart of everything we do, and I’m excited to help ensure a smooth and consistent experience throughout every stage of the relationship.

You've become increasingly involved with AFLA and industry leadership. How has that involvement influenced the way you approach your own career and leadership style?

Bridges: Being around AFLA members opened my eyes to what is possible career-wise because of the exposure to different organizations and the background each person comes from. Where my initial perspective started in the FMC space, I learned more about service providers, creative ways to analyze and present data and identify developing trends and topics that help me be more thoughtful and curious in my own roles. I also get to see best practices and leadership styles in various forms which allows me to take the best of the best back to my own team.

What is your biggest piece of career advice?

Bridges: Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and take on projects, even when impostor syndrome tries to kick in. This can help you build new skills, expand your network across teams and accelerate your professional growth while showing eagerness to learn and contribute,

If you could be any animal for a day, what would you choose... and why?

I'd choose a dolphin. They're intelligent, highly collaborative and like to have fun. Dolphins remind me of the positive motives from the book Prime to Perform by Neel Doshi and Lindsay McGregor where play, purpose and potential have the biggest impact on performance and culture. And, if I was a dolphin then I would finally be able to swim!