Fleet management is a journey of continuous learning, adaptation, and leadership. Few people exemplify this better than Steven Saltzgiver, Fleet Success Senior Advisor at RTA. 

In this edition of the Fleet Legends interview series, sponsored by Legend Fleet, Saltzgiver shared his career journey, insights on the evolution of the fleet industry, and advice for future fleet leaders.

Watch the full interview above or check out some of the highlights of our conversation below! 

A Fleet Journey Spanning Four Decades

Saltzgiver’s career in fleet began, like many others, by chance.

“I kind of stumbled into fleet management,” he explained. After starting as a truck builder and machinist, he spent 15 years with the Utah Transit Authority. His hands-on experience as a diesel mechanic and supervisor shaped his understanding of fleet operations from the ground up.

“I probably made the most difficult decision in my life when I quit Utah Transit Authority to go back to school,” Saltzgiver shared. 

With five children at home, he took a risk, leaving a stable job to pursue his degree. That decision marked a pivotal moment in his career, opening doors to leadership roles in both the public and private sectors, including positions with the State of Utah, the State of Georgia, Coca-Cola, and Republic Services.

Throughout his career, Saltzgiver has worked with a diverse range of fleets, from transit and government to corporate and waste management. His varied experience has given him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities fleet managers face across different industries.

Reflecting on Industry Changes

Looking back on his decades in fleet, Saltzgiver highlighted the transformative impact of technology. 

“The thing I marvel at most is the transition of technology,” he said. Early in his career, fleets relied on chalkboards and file folders. “I remember getting our first computer in the mid-'80s and writing our own fleet program. Now we have advanced vehicle technology and predictive maintenance tools.”

While technology has made fleet management more efficient, it also brings new challenges. Saltzgiver noted that staying current with technological advancements is essential for modern fleet managers.

Memorable Challenges and Success Stories

Saltzgiver has faced many challenges throughout his career, often stepping into roles to turn struggling fleets into top performers. 

“Government Fleet Magazine once called me the 'Fixer of Fleets,'” he shared, noting his induction to the Government Fleet Hall of Fame. “After I left Utah Transit Authority, most of my roles were three- to five-year stints focused on fixing underperforming fleets.”

One of his more memorable challenges was a recent consulting project in Hawaii on the island of Lanai. 

“We took the preventive maintenance compliance rate from 30% to 70% in six months,” he said. “It was all about engaging the team and showing them that success is possible.”

Another standout moment involved catching a driver who claimed to have completed a pre-trip inspection. 

“I opened the hood and found a bird's nest on the radiator,” Saltzgiver laughed. “The driver admitted he hadn’t opened the hood.” These stories highlight the importance of diligence and accountability in fleet operations.

Rookie Fleet Mistakes to Avoid

For new fleet managers, Saltzgiver emphasized the importance of visibility and engagement. 

“One mistake I see is fleet managers burying themselves in their office. You need to be out there on the floor, talking to your team and being a resource,” he advised.

He also stressed the value of continuous learning. 

“I’ve been in this business for over four decades, and I learn something new every day,” Saltzgiver said. He encourages fleet managers to read industry publications and stay informed about new technologies and best practices.

Another piece of advice? Don’t be afraid to work with consultants. “Consultants can help you reach the next level,” he said. “A lot of people think bringing in a consultant means something is wrong, but it’s actually a smart way to gain insights and improve operations.”

Best Practices for Successful Fleet Management

Saltzgiver shared several best practices that have helped him manage successful fleets over the years.

• Intentional Culture: “Make sure you’re doing one-on-ones with your employees and helping them with their careers and education,” he said. Building a supportive culture leads to more engaged and motivated teams.

• Stakeholder Engagement: “If your stakeholders aren’t happy, you won’t be happy. Take care of the people who rely on your fleet services.”

• Resource Efficiency: “Focus on preventive maintenance, asset availability, and efficient workflows to ensure your fleet operates smoothly.”

• Risk Management: “Safety is paramount. Ensure your fleet is compliant and that you follow through on inspections and maintenance to avoid risks.”

One cautionary tale Saltzgiver shared involved a fleet that failed to replace worn tires after noting the issue during an inspection. “The vehicle was involved in a fatal accident, and it resulted in a $25 million lawsuit,” he said. “Following through on maintenance is critical.”

Keeping Teams Motivated

Keeping a team motivated is key to fleet success. Saltzgiver believes in celebrating milestones and recognizing achievements.

“I like to share success with my team,” he said. “We’d have pizza parties, barbecues, or give out jackets and hats when we hit certain goals.” He also encourages applying for industry awards, such as the 100 Best Fleets and Leading Fleets, to boost team morale.

Being a positive leader and treating people fairly is essential. “I’ve always managed by the golden rule. Treat people the way you want to be treated,” he said.

Looking Ahead at Fleet Trends and Challenges

When asked about future trends and challenges, Saltzgiver discussed what he calls the “perfect storm”: The convergence of advancing technology and the loss of institutional knowledge as experienced fleet managers retire.

“A lot of new fleet managers don’t have the hands-on experience that older generations had,” he said. “They need to know how to manage fleets efficiently and advocate for their needs.”

Saltzgiver’s final piece of advice? “Don’t be afraid to ask questions and reach out to others in the industry. There’s a wealth of knowledge out there, and people are willing to share.”

Saltzgiver’s journey is a testament to the importance of leadership, adaptability, and continuous learning in fleet management. His stories and insights serve as a valuable resource for today’s fleet professionals and future industry leaders.