Fleet management is more than just vehicles and logistics — it’s about the people behind the operations who keep things moving. Work Truck’s The Fleet Journey series aims to spotlight these professionals, showcasing their unique paths, experiences, and insights. Through these stories, we uncover the challenges fleet managers face, the innovations they’re driving, and the lessons they’ve learned. Each profile serves as an opportunity to share knowledge, inspire growth, and foster community among fleet professionals. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned leader, you’ll find valuable takeaways in these profiles — ideas to improve operations, motivation to tackle challenges, and even a few fun anecdotes to remind us why we love what we do. Most importantly, The Fleet Journey is about creating connections. By sharing our stories, we build a stronger, more collaborative fleet community that thrives together.

From Humble Beginnings to Fleet Hall of Fame

Matthew Betz, the founder of Ore Creek Fleet Consulting, has built a career on listening, learning, and leading. His story reflects a deep commitment to people and innovation in fleet management. He is also one of the founding members of the Work TruckEditorial Advisory Board. 

Q: What first sparked your interest in fleet management, and how did you start your career in this field?

My dad worked for Budget Car Rental in 1973 when I was just starting out. I got a job washing cars and slowly climbed the ladder. Eventually, I gave up on my college courses in a different field and decided to focus on my fleet career.

Q: What’s been a defining moment or turning point in your career as a fleet manager?

For me, being inducted into the Automotive Fleet Hall of Fame was a career highlight. I have had the honor of attaining many fleet goals and the pleasure of working with incredible people, but the Hall of Fame has to be the pinnacle of my career. Having your peers single you out for that honor makes it even more meaningful.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working in fleet management? What keeps you motivated day-to-day?

It’s easily the people. Meeting the people in this industry has been the most rewarding part of my career. It may be partly due to the travel involved, but I think I have more friends through fleet than I do in my personal life.

Q: Can you share a lesson or piece of advice you’ve learned along the way that’s been invaluable in your fleet journey?

I had a boss once who told me I’d be more successful in fleet management if I listened more and talked less. That advice has stuck with me. However, a lot of people I know will laugh when they read this. 

Q: What’s one goal or vision you have for your fleet’s future, and how are you working toward it?

Let’s help drivers understand why they behave the way they do behind the wheel and help them improve that behavior to ensure they are safe. 

Q: Outside of fleet management, what’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of?

Raising two incredible daughters who have raised four wonderful grandchildren.

Q: If you could have lunch with any figure from history or current times, who would it be and why?

Abraham Lincoln. My all-time favorite historical figure.

Q: What’s the most interesting place you’ve visited, and what made it memorable?

Cologne. It’s where my father’s family originated, and exploring that heritage was meaningful. On the same trip, we also went to Mannweiler, Germany. Mannweiler was my mom's maiden name, and this town is where her family originated. It's an amazing experience to walk on cobblestone streets that your ancestors walked on hundreds of years ago. 

Q: Feel free to share any other fun facts or personal insights about yourself that the fleet community might enjoy!

Now that I'm close to retirement, I plan to travel the country with my dog, Booker. We'll stop wherever we are and interview fleet professionals. The videos will be posted and available so everyone can meet the same amazing fleet folks that I get to work with. Watch for 'On The Road With Booker & Betz'. We're recording our first interviews in December. 

Share YOUR Fleet Journey

Do you have a story to share about your fleet journey? Take our brief survey for a chance to be featured in our Fleet Journey series. Let’s connect and inspire one another to grow and thrive in the fleet management industry!