Innovation, Insights, and a Little AI: Wheels at NAFA I&E in Cleveland

If you were in Cleveland for the NAFA Institute & Expo (I&E), you felt it too: the energy, the innovation, the buzz of ideas. Fleet leaders from across North America showed up ready to talk trends, tech, and the strategies that are going to define what’s next. And Wheels was right in the middle of it sharing what we’re seeing, trading notes with peers, and sparking the kinds of conversations that help fleets keep moving forward.

Conversations Fueled by Connection and Coffee

Our team spent the week talking with clients, partners, and plenty of industry friends about what’s hitting fleets right now: shifting mobility strategies, rising operating costs, and the growing need to turn data and analytics into smarter decisions for vehicles, drivers, and risk.

The Wheels Coffee Bar quickly turned into a favorite meet-up spot. But it just wasn’t about a quick caffeine fix (though it definitely delivered!). It became a natural hub for networking, swapping ideas, and picking up a conversation right where you left off after a great session or a productive meeting.

That’s the magic of I&E: you get the straight talk, the real-world lessons learned, and a chance to compare notes with people who are in it every day.

Making AI Approachable for Fleet Leaders

A session led by Wheels experts Parsh Wanath, VP Digital Engineering and Scott Knabe, VP IT Security, Risk and Compliance, titled “It AI-n’t That Scary” offered an approachable introduction to the use of artificial intelligence in fleet operations.

Rather than focusing on hype, Parsh and Scott explored practical ways AI is already supporting fleet leaders, from analyzing large volumes of fleet data more efficiently to enabling faster, more informed decision-making. The session emphasized a simple but important message: AI does not have to be intimidating. When applied thoughtfully, it can help fleets operate more efficiently, improve safety outcomes, and uncover insights hidden in complex data.

The NAFA I&E Tradition We All Look Forward To

Wheels hosted one of the weeks can’t-miss traditions, our annual Karaoke Night. It’s the perfect reset: fleet pros, clients, and partners all in one room, catching up and reminding ourselves that the best connections don’t always happen in a breakout session.

This has become a true I&E favorite for a reason. It’s a lot of fun, and it brings people together. You get time to unwind, strengthen relationships, and (let’s be honest) hear a few “where did that voice come from?” performances that you’ll be talking about long after the conference ends.

Celebrating Achievement and Investing in the Future

Beyond the educational sessions and technology discussions, one of the most meaningful aspects of events like the NAFA I&E is the opportunity to recognize the people and organizations helping move the fleet industry forward. From celebrating the 2025 CAFM graduates to honoring the 100 Best Corporate Fleets, the week served as a reminder that fleet success is driven not only by innovation, but by leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous learning.

A big congratulations to MacKenzie Mones from ITG Brands for leading the fleet recognized as number six on the 100 Best Corporate Fleets listing. Achievements like these reflect the dedication, strategic thinking, and adaptability required to lead successful fleet operations in an increasingly complex environment.

Wheels helped set the tone in Cleveland by bringing thought leadership, and fun, meaningful connections. From advancing practical discussions around AI and fleet strategy to creating space for authentic peer-to-peer exchange, we focused on what matters most: helping fleets move forward with confidence.