The 2023 Government Fleet Expo & Conference (GFX) opens today in Dallas. 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 Thursday and takes place at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center.
(From left) Makela Owens, Kathy Wellik, Sara Burnam, and Alison Kerstetter shared about their experiences in the industry during the Women in Public Fleet Management session.
Photo: Ross Stewart Photography
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.
GFX attendees had an opportunity to test driver some of the new vehicles on the market at the Block Party Ride & Drive.
Photo: Ross Stewart Photography
These sessions were followed by the Block Party and Experience, where fleet professionals had an opportunity to network, test drive the latest vehicles, and check out new technologies in a fun atmosphere.
MEMA members shared about issues and solutions to fleet issues at the MEMA Showcase.
Photo: Ross Stewart Photography
The annual MEMA (Municipal Equipment Maintenance Association) showcase featured fleet professionals sharing about innovative fleet solutions.
Gary Lykins shared about his fleet experience in Antarctica while looking ahead for the technicians of the future in his industry keynote address.
Photo: Ross Stewart Photography
Gary Lykins, General Manager and Owner of First Town Motor, delivered this year’s opening industry keynote address, titled, “From Tennessee to Antarctica,” where he shared about his time on 'The Ice' as a fleet supervisor.
Award winners pose at the 2023 GFX Honors Celebration.
Photo: Ross Stewart Photography
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.
CDR Kirk Lippold will kick off Day Two with his keynote address titled, "Leadership and Accountability When It Matters," where he will share about his time as the Commanding Officer of the USS Cole when it came under a suicide terrorist attack by al Qaeda in the port of Aden, Yemen on October 12, 2000. The day will continue with educational sessions and the ribbon-cutting for the Exhibit Hall. Day Two will wrap up with the Networking Night on the Town at Federales in the lively Deep Ellum entertainment district.
