The Final 3

Each issue, we ask a fleet professional to share three keys to fleet success.

This issue’s Final 3 participant is Matt Gilliland, fleet manager for Nebraska Public Power District. NPPD is Nebraska’s largest electric utility, delivering power to about 600,000 Nebraskans. The utility’s fleet department provides direct life-cycle oversight for nearly 1,200 fleet assets in 41 locations within the state. In addition to his role as fleet manager, Gilliland serves as president of the Upper Midwest Utility Fleet Council, is a member of the UFP editorial advisory board and holds a master’s degree in business.

Tip 1: Communicate, Communicate, Communicate
“It is so important to push information out as it becomes available as well as listen for, then act upon, the voice of the customer. One thing we do to accomplish this is through a monthly newsletter that is sent to every equipment operator and any supervisor or manager that has an equipment operator in their department. The newsletter offers a method of feedback and suggestions while communicating recalls, best practices, equipment replacement projections and progress, and other important information.”

Tip 2: Surround Yourself with Great People
“When you surround yourself with people who take pride in what they do, it creates an atmosphere of accomplishment. I owe my professional success largely to the members of my team. One would be hard-pressed to find a more dedicated, hardworking and expert level of people anywhere in the fleet industry.”

Tip 3: Create a Better You
“One of the best investments a person can make is an investment in themselves. Seeking professional certification, training, networking connections and education are tremendous ways to invest in yourself and foster professional success.”