The Four Pillars of Fleet Success | Steven Saltzgiver | Ep 17

In this episode of Miles and Mentors, Steve Saltzgiver from RTA, the Fleet Success Company, shares insights from his nearly 50-year career in fleet management and transportation. From working as a diesel mechanic to becoming a vice president and consultant, Steve provides valuable perspectives on leadership, mentorship, and navigating the evolving challenges in the logistics industry.

Steve’s journey into fleet management began straight out of high school, where he started building trucks and working as a mechanic. Over time, he climbed the ranks, moving into supervisory and leadership positions. Reflecting on his career, he emphasizes the importance of mentorship and leveraging the knowledge of experienced professionals. He encourages those entering the industry to seek out mentors, engage in professional associations, and continuously learn from those who have already navigated the challenges of fleet management.

A key takeaway from the conversation is the significance of intentional culture in an organization. Steve highlights that many companies overlook the human element, leading to high turnover rates and disengaged employees. He stresses that creating a workplace where employees feel valued and motivated is essential for long-term success. His work at RTA focuses on stakeholder satisfaction, resource efficiency, and risk management—pillars he believes are crucial for sustaining and growing a fleet business.

Throughout the episode, Steve shares lessons from both great and challenging bosses, explaining how every experience helped shape his leadership style. He recalls a pivotal moment when he left a stable job due to a toxic work environment, a decision that ultimately propelled his career forward. His advice to newcomers in the industry is to embrace challenges, learn from every situation, and always have a plan. He firmly believes that failing to plan is planning to fail, and that written goals significantly increase the likelihood of success.

Steve also discusses the rapid advancements in fleet technology, including automation, AI, and robotics. While technology is creating efficiencies in diagnostics, repairs, and operations, he warns that it also increases complexity and requires continuous learning. He emphasizes the importance of staying updated on regulations and industry trends, particularly as electric vehicles and autonomous trucking continue to develop.

For those interested in fleet management or looking to scale their trucking business, Steve’s insights provide a roadmap to success. His work at RTA and the Fleet Success Show podcast offers valuable resources for those seeking to improve operations and build sustainable businesses.

If you’re starting a trucking business or growing your fleet and need expert guidance, reach out to us today—our industry expert partners can help you make the right decisions for long-term success.