The 2024 Government Fleet Expo & Conference (GFX) opened today in Louisville, Kentucky. The largest gathering of public fleet professionals in the nation, GFX features engaging events, hours of educational sessions, and multiple networking opportunities. The conference runs through Friday, May 10, and takes place at the Kentucky International Convention Center.

Networking, Keynote Speakers, and OEM Discussion

The day began with registration opening at 8 a.m. then, at 9 a.m. new attendees headed to the First Timers’ Orientation, which walks first-time attendees through what to expect and allows them to meet other conference-goers, new and returning. Bobit Director of Strategic Accounts Jeff Carter led the session for 2024. 

This was followed by the GFX Block Party and Experience, where attendees could receive experiential learning, explore cutting-edge technology in the showcase, and get behind the wheel for a firsthand encounter with the latest industry-related vehicles. The event-within-an-event took place at the Kentucky Exposition Center, just a short ride from the convention center.

State of the Industry: Hearing from OEMs

This year, GFX included an OEM Showcase on the first day. The roughly two-hour session allowed attendees to hear from various auto manufacturers on current news and changes. OEM reps also took a look at what the future looks like regarding vehicles. 

Presenters included Ford Pro National Government Sales Manager Nate Oscarson; Stellantis Head of Government Fleet Sales & Operations Phil Bockhorn; GM Envolve Government Area Sales Manager Jessi Gross; Nissan Commercial Sales Manager Ross Friedmann; Mullen Automotive Chief Strategy Officer Marianne McInerney; and Bollinger Motors Chief Revenue Officer Jim Connelly. 

Kelly Reagan, fleet administrator for the city of Columbus, Ohio delivered this year’s opening industry keynote address, titled, “Servant Leadership Works,” where he spoke about relational service for employees by allowing them to participate in goal setting, timelines, and expectations.

According to Reagan, being a fleet manager is more about bringing solutions to your administration during these uncertain post- COVID times.

Day One concluded with the Honors Celebration, where fleet professionals had a chance to celebrate their accomplishments in a room of their peers. See who won the awards here.

Day Two Leads with "Take Command & Win" 

CDR Captain Gail Harris, U.S. Navy (Retired) will kick off Day Two with a keynote address titled, "Take Command & Win," where Harris will share how — through hard work fired by courage and persistence — she became the highest ranking African-American female in the U.S. Navy.

Harris earned her stripes in the pressure cooker of the intelligence community, and her wealth of leadership skills, tested in the rough waters of the real world, will equip any professional audience for their best effort. Harris can show anyone how to get the most from themselves and from those around them, against all odds.