Bright Ideas: Staffing

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"The AbilityOne program, which trains people with disabilities on skills for public and private sector jobs, can provide trained staffing from a pool of 10 million eligible blind or disabled workers. Employing them can make an important contribution to the community. Capabilities include maintenance and repair, fueling and washing, motor pool operations, fleet management information systems, vehicle upfitting, and fleet operations and parts management."
—“Tapping a Ready Source of Trained Workers” (GF Nov/Dec 2008)

"Utilize seasonal/temporary employees to support full-time fleet employees and determine future full-time needs."
—Shawn Khankan, fleet services supervisor, Highlands Ranch, Colo.

"Partner with local vocational schools. Students gain a wide range of experience and earn an income. If a full-time opening becomes available later on within the department, it makes for an easier transition for both employer and employee."
—“City of Marietta Partners with Vocational School” (GF May/June 2008)

"Develop a paid internship program with local college students taking a second-semester mechanic course, which demonstrates their eagerness to learn and build a career. With a basic skill set, they can learn more on the jobsite with experienced mechanics serving as mentors. Veterans get to know the students and teach them. Part-time work shifts accommodate class schedules."
—“Can’t Find Good Technicians? Here’s One Solution” (GF May/June 2009)

Teamwork
"Ask your staff what you can do for them as a manager. Be ready for some enlightening answers! Set staffing levels at a high-mid point."
—Jim Wright, president, Fleet Counselor Services

Career Advancement
"To improve both recruitment and retention of qualified technicians, a three-tier mechanic series has been developed with a trainee classification at the entry level and two higher-level positions. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications are a criterion for promotion."
—Sharon Subadan, CAFM, CPFP, director of fleet management, Hillsborough County, Fla.

Fact:  Approximately 400,000 professionals hold ASE certifications, according to the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Thirty-two fleet employees of Hillsborough County, Fla., (ranked No. 1 in the 100 Best Fleets for 2008 and 2009), hold ASE certifications.