SHzoom's Monthly Minute
The Power of People: How Patti Earley and Tom Johnson Redefined Fleet Leadership
Volume 6 Issue 6 | This article was originally published on SHzoom
SHzoom Technologies CEO, Ingrid Moravitz, sits down with Tom Johnson Award Winner, Patti Earley.
What makes an industry feel like home?
For anyone who’s walked the buzzing floor of the NAFA Institute & Expo, the answer is clear: it’s the people. And no one embodies that spirit more than Patti Earley, CAFM —NAFA veteran, fleet champion, and this year’s recipient of the inaugural Tom Johnson Award.
During a candid conversation on the show floor, Patti shared what sets NAFA apart:
“NAFA is like a big family. We’re not competitors—we are friends. If someone needs something, everyone is more than happy to pitch and help them out.”
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In a space often defined by numbers, contracts, and KPIs, Patti’s words were a reminder of what truly drives the fleet industry forward: human connection.
Relationships are the foundation of any successful fleet operation. Whether you're coordinating between departments, managing vendor partnerships, or navigating the transition from military to civilian fleet roles, it's the strength of your connections that determines long-term success. Building and sustaining those relationships — through trust, communication, and shared purpose — is what transforms a fleet from functional to exceptional.
This is especially relevant now, as programs like FleetGap begin to bridge long-standing gaps in career development. By establishing a dedicated SkillBridge track for military fleet professionals, we're not just addressing a need — we're reinforcing the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and community within the industry. It’s a move that acknowledges experience, values leadership, and most importantly, builds pathways where they didn’t exist before.
Honoring a Legend: Tom Johnson
Tom Johnson wasn’t just a leader—he was a connector. Founder of the 100 Best Fleets, Tom championed operational excellence and human connection.
“He was a master at introducing people... once you met Tom and talked to him, he was your friend forever.”
And it’s that spirit of service, mentorship, and genuine care that lives on through the award bearing his name. Patti’s story of Tom remembering and celebrating her daughter—also briefly in fleet—was just one of many memories that painted him as more than a colleague, but a legend.
“Tom really made it his life’s mission to promote fleet and promote fleet managers.”
Become a FleetGap Civilian Peer Mentor Today
If you're ready to take the next step in supporting this transition, consider becoming a FleetGap Civilian Peer Mentor. Your experience can make all the difference for a military fleet professional stepping into the civilian world. Help shape the future of fleet — take a moment to complete the FleetGap survey and join the movement today.
A Legacy of Leadership and Learning
From her first committee meeting to decades of volunteer leadership, Patti has quietly shaped the backbone of fleet education.
“When you do it, you get back just as much as you give. It is so worth the time and effort.”
Bridging the Fleet Gap
One such change started with a conversation—about technicians, talent gaps, and untapped potential in transitioning veterans.
“The folks coming out of the military are just prime candidates… They have wonderful training and a fantastic work ethic.”
From that moment, SHzoom sprang into action, collaborating to bring fleet training tracks to the SkillBridge program. The result? The CAFM program is now integrated into the Air Force School. Fifteen years of roadblocks cleared through relationship and action.
From Inspiration to Innovation
This year’s NAFA wasn’t just about recognition. It was about realization. Strategic partnerships that began with simple hellos turned into growth opportunities—live, on the floor.
“This has been the most opportunity as far as strategic partnerships for SHzoom. And it’s all because of relationships.”
So what happens when fleet professionals, transitioning military fleet pros, tech partners, and educators all pull in the same direction?
At SHzoom , we call it the Ultimate User Experience! A real-time glimpse into what happens when connectivity, care, and community drive product design. If you missed our live demo at NAFA I&E 2025, no worries. We're bringing UPtime to you.
👉 Experience UPtime —no pressure, just possibilities. Let’s continue building!