Presenting last week at San Diego’s Paradise Point Resort, NAFA CEO Phillip Russo briefed the Pacific Southwest Chapter about the Association’s initiatives and direction.

Russo, who was recently promoted to CEO during an Association-wide reorganization, emphasized that NAFA is a member-driven Association. “Everybody is NAFA,” he exclaimed, adding that there is a renewed emphasis on giving value to the members.

NAFA will be providing this value in a number of ways. Russo broke the member value prospects into five categories: networking, continuing education, resources, advocacy, and publications.

NAFA’s annual Institute and Expo (I&E) provides various networking opportunities for members. This year’s I&E will take place at the Minneapolis Convention Center from April 9-10. Members can also network online through NAFA’s social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn).

Fleet managers can continue their fleet education by attaining one of NAFA’s certification (Certified Automotive Fleet Manager or Certified Automotive Fleet Specialist programs), in-person seminars, such as “Essentials of Fleet Management” and “Masters Seminar,” and monthly webinars. NAFA also offers multiple resources including surveys, NAFA-written guides, career resources, such as resume and job-posting services, and publications including its biweekly e-newsletter (NAFAConnection) and bimonthly magazine (FLEETSolutions).

Other highlights of Russo’s presentation included an overview of the eight disciplines to become a successful fleet manager: asset management, business management, financial management, information management, maintenance, fuel, risk and professional development.

The meeting began with the announcement of NAFA PSW’s new board members, including Mike Antich as program chair and Rick Longobart as treasurer. Tony Orta, fleet asset manager for Southern California Gas Co., and Rick Sikes, fleet manager of the City of Santa Monica, Calif., remained as president and vice president respectively.

By Amy Winter, photo by Chris Wolski