Fleet technology has traditionally been something fleet managers purchase, from telematics platforms and camera systems to fleet management software.
A brand new generation of AI tools is starting to alter that relationship. Fleet managers can now create lightweight applications, automate repetitive processes, and develop solutions tailored to the best way their very own operations work.
On the 2026 Fleet Forward Conference, fleet managers who’re already experimenting with this technology will lead “Get Able to Vibe Code: A Hands-On AI Fleet Workshop.” The concurrent session takes place from 1:30–2:15 pm.
Kristin Leary of Syneos Health, James McKinley of City Rent-A-Truck, and Ernie Garcia of Gothic Landscape will share how they’re using AI to handle real fleet challenges. Their projects include vehicle-to-territory assignments, driver inspection and accountability tools, TCO calculators, substitute and residual-value evaluation, title-processing automation, fleet training programs, and customer vehicle-ordering applications.
What Is Vibe Coding?
Vibe coding is an emerging approach wherein a user describes a desired tool or workflow to an AI assistant using conversational language. The AI then helps generate the formulas, code, interfaces, or instructions needed to construct it.
For fleet managers, that would mean turning an operational idea right into a working spreadsheet, dashboard, calculator, application, or automated workflow without starting with conventional programming skills.
The workshop is meant to make the concept tangible. Presenters will explain what their processes looked like before, what data their tools require, how they developed their first working versions, and what that they had to revise when those early versions didn’t perform as expected.
Built by Fleet Managers, for Fleet Managers
Unlike a general technology presentation, the session will likely be led by fleet professionals applying AI to the identical operational challenges attendees face day by day.
The discussion will explore where AI can deliver the best immediate value, including reducing administrative work, analyzing costs, improving vehicle utilization, communicating with drivers, forecasting replacements, and streamlining recurring workflows.
Attendees will even learn learn how to discover an appropriate first project. One of the best starting points are typically limited, repeatable processes that will be tested with sample or non-sensitive data before being connected to a live fleet system.
Understanding the Risks
Constructing a tool quickly doesn’t eliminate the necessity for validation, security, or human oversight. The presenters will discuss how fleet managers can check AI-generated calculations and code, protect sensitive fleet and driver information, and recognize when a project requires help from IT, cybersecurity, legal, or an expert developer.
The workshop will even address a critical distinction: whether an AI tool merely provides information or makes — or executes — an operational decision. Alternative recommendations, repair approvals, driver assignments, and other consequential actions still require clearly defined accountability and appropriate human review.
This Article First Appeared At www.automotive-fleet.com
