Two Popular Panels Return to I&E 2025 to Address Key Industry Challenges and Solutions

Edison, N.J. (March 12, 2025) – Due to popular demand, NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA) is bringing back two highly anticipated panel discussions at the 2025 Institute & Expo (I&E), taking place from April 28-30, 2025, in Long Beach, California. These panels will offer fleet professionals invaluable insights into two critical areas: advancing women in fleet management and mastering the complexities of the upfit lifecycle, with a focus on diversity, inclusion, innovation and future-proofing fleet operations.

“We’re excited to bring these panels back by popular demand to I&E 2025, as they address two key areas that are essential for the future of fleet management,” said Bill Schankel, CAE, CEO of NAFA. “These discussions will provide actionable insights and strategies that fleet professionals can immediately apply to drive innovation, inclusivity and operational excellence within their organizations.”

Both of these panels are scheduled for Monday, April 28, 2025.

Women in Fleet: Driving Change and Shaping the Future

This empowering panel will feature accomplished women leaders in the fleet management industry who will discuss their experiences, challenges and insights. Topics will include strategies for advancing diversity and inclusion, leadership approaches to career growth, and actionable advice for fostering innovation and navigating evolving sustainability goals. Attendees will gain invaluable perspectives on how to create opportunities for the next generation of fleet professionals and drive meaningful change.

Panelists:

• Maria Neve, VP eFMC Services, Inspiration Mobility (Moderator)
• Maureen Gillespie, VP of Sales and Key Accounts, Inspiration Mobility
• Jennifer Walls, CAFM, Fleet Director, City of Austin
• Emily Garza, CAFM, Manager – Operational Fleet, Rivian

Upfitter’s Panel: Mastering the Upfit Lifecycle: Solutions for Today and Tomorrow

This session will tackle the complexities of upfitting, focusing on effective strategies for upfit design, working with upfitters to streamline timelines and avoiding dysfunctional configurations. Panelists will share insights on adapting to the growing challenges of electrified fleets, including strategies for integrating electric and autonomous vehicles into the fleet upfitting processes. Attendees will leave with actionable knowledge on how to future-proof their fleets for the changing landscape.

Panelists:

• David Hayward, CAFM, Global Fleet Manager, ABM Industries
• Todd Davis, Executive Vice President, Phenix Truck and Van
• Chad Hess, President, Marathon Truck Body
• Chris Rolson, Vice President of Fleet Sales, The Knapheide Manufacturing Company
• Peter Young, Vice President of Business Development, Ranger Design

In addition to these two dynamic panels, I&E 2025 will feature over 40 educational sessions covering a wide array of critical topics such as fleet operations, sustainability, emerging technologies and the latest fleet management strategies. With session categories including DEIA, Legislative Advocacy, Safety and Technicians, I&E offers an unparalleled opportunity for fleet professionals to gain practical solutions and insights to enhance their operations.

I&E 2025 will also feature the industry’s largest Expo Hall, with access to cutting-edge fleet solutions and over 200 exhibitors. The event offers numerous networking opportunities with peers and industry leaders, ensuring a productive and engaging experience. Don’t miss out on this essential event—register today to gain access to all educational sessions, the Expo Hall and more.

Media registration is complimentary for credentialed journalists.

Prospective exhibitors are encouraged to secure their space early to ensure prime placement in the Exhibit Hall. For more information about reserving an exhibit booth, please visit NAFA’s website. Sponsorship opportunities can be secured here. This year’s current sponsors include Fleetio, Holman, Legend, Merchants Fleet, Mitsubishi Motors, Motive, RAM, Reindeer Logistics, Samsara, US Bank Voyager and Wheels.

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About NAFA Fleet Management Association 

NAFA Fleet Management Association is the membership organization for professionals who manage the mobility requirements of vehicle fleets that include commercial, public safety, trucks, and buses of all types and sizes, and a wide range of military and off-road equipment for corporations, governments, universities, utility fleets, and law enforcement in North America and across the globe. NAFA’s members are responsible for the specification, acquisition, maintenance, repair, fueling, risk management, and remarketing of more than 4.8 million vehicles that drive an estimated 84 billion miles each year. NAFA’s members control assets and services well above $122 billion each year.

For more information, please visit www.nafa.org, and communicate with NAFA on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

Media Contact
Keaveny Hewitt
On behalf of NAFA
khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com
919.622.5276