Compiled by Tod Trousdell, Fleet Marketing Consultant and Partner at RobertsTrousdell Communications
April 2, 2025
This week, Fleet Pro Focus chats with Debbie Struna, National Accounts Director at Fleet Street Remarketing. She’s originally from Clarion, Pennsylvania and currently lives in San Diego. Debbie is likely one of the most connected people in the industry. As a past AFLA board member, just about anyone who has attended an industry conference in the last 20 years is likely familiar with her. Deb shares a bit about herself and how she sees the fleet industry during these very interesting times.
How and when did you get involved with fleet and what is your current position?
I started my journey in fleet in 2007 as a temporary employee at Rite Aid Corporation, working in the travel and fleet department. During that time, I had the opportunity to train under the fleet manager, who later left for another role. Fortunately, I was able to step into the fleet manager position, where I remained for seven years. Eventually, I transitioned into a sales role within fleet and currently serve as a National Fleet Account Manager at Fleet Street Remarketing, a company that’s been a leader in its space for over 35 years.
Please tell us about your thoughts on the current state of fleet.
One thing I’ve learned is that the fleet industry is constantly evolving, but the pace of change has never been faster than it is today. From ongoing supply chain challenges to rapid technological advancements, fleet professionals are being forced to adapt almost on the fly. I’m also keeping a close eye on the current [U.S. presidential] administration changes, such as the impact of new tariffs on foreign manufacturers, and how these shifts may shape the industry in the coming years.
Thinking back on your career, who were some of your mentors or the people who helped you along the way?
My first fleet boss, Jan Panzer, currently with Wheels, played a pivotal role in shaping my career. She introduced me to key industry associations like AFLA and NAFA, opening the door to a network of incredible professionals that have helped shape my career. I’ll always 
be grateful for her guidance and for leading me to such a supportive and dynamic fleet community. I highly urge everyone in this industry to seek out the support of a mentor. We have a wonderful formal Mentorship program available through AFLA’s Women in Fleet Management (WIFM). If you’d like to know more about it, please feel free to connect with me at [email protected] anytime.
Tell us more about your philosophy on business and the professional and personal things you live by.
I believe in focusing on the present rather than worrying about the future. Over the years, I’ve realized that many of the things I once stressed about ended up resolving themselves. Life has a way of unfolding in unexpected but meaningful ways, often leading to new opportunities and experiences that bring joy and growth and I try and remind myself of that every day.
What most excites you about the future of fleet?
I’m most excited about the potential of AI and how it could revolutionize fleet management. The possibility of leveraging AI as a personal assistant to streamline our day-to-day operations is fascinating to me. If we can harness its power effectively, it could free up more time for strategic thinking and even improve our work-life balance—all without compromising quality or efficiency.
Please tell us about something fun and incredible you’ve done lately.
Perfect question! I had the opportunity to travel to Antarctica earlier this year (see main photo), and the experience has had a lasting impact on me. It was a powerful reminder of the breathtaking beauty and diversity of our world. I truly believe that travel offers invaluable perspective, and I encourage everyone to explore new places and appreciate the remarkable experiences our planet has to offer.
About the author
Tod Trousdell is a fleet marketing consultant and a partner in the Atlanta firm RobertsTrousdell Communications, which specializes in research, brand and marketing strategy, campaign development, digital lead generation and more. He has worked with over 25 fleet entities on various projects over the past 15 years and can be reached at [email protected].
