By Laura Jozwiak, Senior Vice President of Sales & Client Relations, Wheels, Inc.
President, Automotive Fleet and Leasing Association (AFLA)
Has anyone ever said to you, “Tell me a bit about AFLA”? What was your response? “The Automotive Fleet & Leasing Association (AFLA) is the advanced forum dedicated to improving communication between sellers, buyers, fleet managers, lending institutions, fleet management companies, used vehicle marketers, and allied automotive service companies.” – do you just spout off the mission? Being an AFLA member is so much more than a mission statement – it is a connection that once experienced, can be challenging to put into words.
I recently had this very question posed to me when I got a call from someone new to the fleet industry. They were interested in learning about AFLA and how they may fit into the association. After learning about their company and what they are looking to achieve, I offered my perspective on why I am an advocate for AFLA. I shared with my new fleet friend that what I love most about AFLA is the networking with my peers…. whether someone I serve or compete against!
When you participate in an AFLA event, you are more than the company on your business card. You are a member of a robust industry with a common mission…the advancement of fleet. We advance the fleet industry by sharing best practices, challenges, our time and our passion. We feel responsible for the safety of our drivers and challenge the industry to provide technology and products to achieve our sustainability goals. Collectively, we offer a wealth of experiences and backgrounds to ensure we stay fresh and relevant.
The environment that I described seemed to be exactly what this inquisitive caller was looking for! AFLA has been a central focus of mine since joining the board a few years ago, and this opportunity to pause, reflect, and put into words what AFLA represents was a gift to me. It reminded me why I became a member years ago, engaged in the many conferences and networking events, and proudly joined the board.
What AFLA provides to our industry truly matters – as a member – you support an ever-changing and challenging industry with other welcoming members who freely share knowledge to encourage growth.
I encourage you to learn more about AFLA membership and the valuable programs and networking opportunities the organization provides to members. Keep updated through our website or LinkedIn page, and register to join our next Coffee Break Discussion or the AFLA 2021 Corporate Fleet Conference.
