The Government Fleet Expo & Conference (GFX) opens today in Detroit, our first-ever conference in the Motor City. Known as the biggest gathering of public fleet professionals in the nation, GFX features engaging events and multiple networking and educational opportunities. The conference runs through Thursday and takes place at Huntington Place (formerly known as TCF Center).

The day began at 9 a.m. with the return of the First Timers’ Orientation, which walks first-time attendees through what to expect and allows them to meet other conference-goers, new and returning. At the same time, a Women in Public Fleet Management session featured a panel of female fleet managers discussing establishing respect and developing leadership skills.

These sessions were followed by the Block Party and Experience, where fleet professionals got to test drive the latest vehicles and check out new technologies in a fun atmosphere.

The annual MEMA (Municipal Equipment Maintenance Association) showcase featured fleet professionals talking about innovative fleet solutions as well as supply chain issues and how they affect vehicle parts.

Kevin Devery, fleet superintendent for the City of Goodyear, Arizona, delivered this year’s opening keynote address, titled, “How to Get ‘Buy-In’ for Your Vision & Projects.”

Finally, today’s activities concluded with the Honors Celebration, where fleet professionals got to celebrate their accomplishments in a room of their peers. Find out who won the awards here.