Previously published in AFLA Fleet Insight, February 2021 member newsletter
By Debbie Struna, WIFM Task Force Member
I don’t think any of us believed that the pandemic that began in early 2020 would still be impacting our lives as we move well into the year 2021. While our pets have been happier than ever, and we might have learned how to bake our own bread, the past year has brought about many changes to the fleet industry. To some, the challenge of working from home had to be navigated. Parents had to set up home offices as well as tutor their children through cyber learning. Certain fleets were mobilized into action to help combat the pandemic, others were stalled or slowed down due to restrictions. I think it’s fair to say that life has changed measurably for all of us.
During this time, I’ve happily looked forward to my bi-weekly call to discuss, life, work, and future plans with my mentee. It’s a welcome break to connect with someone outside of my home life and get fresh insights on how to handle the changes. We can all certainly use a little more outreach during these times.
WIFM would like to take this opportunity to connect more fleet professionals and continue to grow this successful program. In the application process, you can indicate what area you would like to be mentored in: personally, professionally, specific mentoring in the fleet industry, etc., and – new this year – is the opportunity for fleet managers to specifically request to mentee or to be mentored by a fellow fleet manager.
Men and Women are both welcome, and new pairings are going on now. Information on how to sign-up for the Mentorship program can be found at AFLA.org/WIFMMentor.