By: Shelly Parker, Clean Transportation Senior Project Manager

Staying current with innovations, industry reports, and networking is vital for the NC Clean Energy Technology Center’s Transportation Team. It helps us bring clean transportation insights back to share with you, so read on!

Last week, I attended the NAFA Fleet Management Association Institute & Expo, where I connected with fleet managers, researchers, service providers, and technology developers. I explored sustainable products and technologies aimed at boosting efficiency.

I also enjoyed the ride & drive event—checking out the new Slate Truck, pursuit-rated vehicles, and test driving Stellantis’s EV sports car, the all-electric Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack Stage 2. It features customizable sound settings, from quiet to dragway settings that include a muscle-car rumble.

While fun, the main goal was education. One standout session focused on FleetGap, a workforce initiative that helps fill fleet vacancies through partnerships with the Department of Defense SkillBridge program, NAFA, and SHzoom. Especially relevant in North Carolina with its seven military bases, FleetGap lets agencies and fleets host transitioning service members for up to 180 days – at no cost. This workforce pipeline is a great solution for the 60% of public sector fleets that report having technician vacancies and the 200,000 military personnel who transition to civilian life each year.

According to the DOD SkillBridge Program website, “For service members, DOD SkillBridge provides an invaluable chance to work and learn in civilian career areas. For industry partners, DOD SkillBridge is an opportunity to access and leverage the world’s most highly trained and motivated workforce at no cost. Service members participating in DOD SkillBridge programs continue receiving military compensation and benefits, while industry partners provide the civilian training and work experience.”

FleetGap is open to local governments. “We’re creating pathways for veterans to seamlessly transition into civilian fleet roles while addressing critical workforce needs,” said Bill Schankel, CEO of NAFA. Both employers and transitioning military members can start by completing the quick FleetGap survey. Veterans already working in fleets can also serve as mentors by selecting “I’m hiring.”

Want more on sustainable fleets? Join us at the Sustainable Fleet Technology Conference in Winston-Salem, August 25–27. Early bird rates are $349 through July 11, with group rates of $249 each for three or more. Learn more and register at www.sustainablefleetexpo.com.