Fleet technology has traditionally been something fleet managers purchase, from telematics platforms and camera systems to fleet management software.

A new generation of AI tools is beginning to change that relationship. Fleet managers can now create lightweight applications, automate repetitive processes, and develop solutions tailored to the way their own operations work.

At the 2026 Fleet Forward Conference, fleet managers who are already experimenting with this technology will lead “Get Ready to Vibe Code: A Hands-On AI Fleet Workshop.” The concurrent session takes place from 1:30–2:15 pm.

Kristin Leary of Syneos Health, James McKinley of City Rent-A-Truck, and Ernie Garcia of Gothic Landscape will share how they are using AI to address real fleet challenges. Their projects include vehicle-to-territory assignments, driver inspection and accountability tools, TCO calculators, replacement and residual-value analysis, title-processing automation, fleet training programs, and customer vehicle-ordering applications.

What Is Vibe Coding?

Vibe coding is an emerging approach in which a user describes a desired tool or workflow to an AI assistant using conversational language. The AI then helps generate the formulas, code, interfaces, or instructions needed to build it.

For fleet managers, that could mean turning an operational idea into a working spreadsheet, dashboard, calculator, application, or automated workflow without starting with conventional programming skills.

The workshop is intended to make the concept tangible. Presenters will explain what their processes looked like before, what data their tools require, how they developed their first working versions, and what they had to revise when those early versions did not perform as expected.

Built by Fleet Managers, for Fleet Managers

Unlike a general technology presentation, the session will be led by fleet professionals applying AI to the same operational challenges attendees face every day.

The discussion will explore where AI can deliver the greatest immediate value, including reducing administrative work, analyzing costs, improving vehicle utilization, communicating with drivers, forecasting replacements, and streamlining recurring workflows.

Attendees will also learn how to identify an appropriate first project. The best starting points are typically limited, repeatable processes that can be tested with sample or non-sensitive data before being connected to a live fleet system.

Understanding the Risks

Building a tool quickly does not eliminate the need for validation, security, or human oversight. The presenters will discuss how fleet managers can check AI-generated calculations and code, protect sensitive fleet and driver information, and recognize when a project requires help from IT, cybersecurity, legal, or a professional developer.

The workshop will also address a critical distinction: whether an AI tool merely provides information or makes — or executes — an operational decision. Replacement recommendations, repair approvals, driver assignments, and other consequential actions still require clearly defined accountability and appropriate human review.

About Fleet Forward Conference

For the first time, the Fleet Forward Conference will take place on the East Coast. FFC 2026 convenes Oct. 20–22 at Gaylord National Harbor in Maryland, nine miles south of Washington, D.C.

The conference brings together fleet, mobility, and technology leaders for three days of education, hands-on experiences, and networking focused on the future of fleet operations. This year’s theme is “Leading Fleets Through Transformation.”

The educational program is organized around six pillars: Mobility & Autonomy; Data Integration, AI & Predictive Intelligence; Global Strategy; Fleet Safety & Risk; Infrastructure & Energy; and People, Talent & Culture.

Registration is open now.