The Fleet Success Show

Episode 225: Are Certifications Still Worth It? The Truth About ASE, CAFM & Fleet Leadership

Episode Summary

Are ASE and CAFM certifications still worth it? Learn how fleet leaders can build stronger teams, improve performance, and lead with confidence.

Episode Notes

Are certifications like ASE and CAFM still worth it—or are they becoming irrelevant in today’s technician shortage?

In this episode of the Fleet Success Show, Josh Turley and Drew Morrow break down the real reason certifications are losing traction, why that’s dangerous for fleets, and what leaders should be doing instead.

They unpack:

• Why shops are lowering standards (and the long-term risk)
• The difference between factory certs vs. ASE
• How certifications create defensible credibility and benchmarking
• The hidden leadership gap behind technician shortages
• Josh’s real CAFM journey (and what it actually takes to pass)
• Why motivated teams outperform “warm bodies in seats”

If you’re a fleet leader trying to build a stronger team, improve performance, and lead with confidence, this episode is a must-listen.

👉 Because in a world full of fleet blind spots… certifications might be one of the clearest signals you’ve got.

🎯 Key Takeaways

• Certifications = objective benchmarking, not just credentials
• Lowering hiring standards creates long-term operational risk
• Technician shortages are driving reactive vs. strategic leadership
• CAFM and ASE build credibility in leadership conversations
• Investing in people—even if they leave—is still the right move
• Motivation > requirement when it comes to professional growth 

If you want to eliminate blind spots and lead your fleet with confidence, it starts with investing in your people and your systems.

👉 Visit rtafleet.com
👉 Or email us at podcast@rtafleet.com

Speaker Bios

Josh Turley

Josh Turley is a fleet industry leader and CEO of RTA: The Fleet Success Company. With deep expertise in fleet operations, technology, and leadership development, Josh is passionate about helping public sector fleets eliminate blind spots, improve performance, and lead with confidence. As host of the Fleet Success Show, he brings practical insights and real-world strategies to fleet professionals navigating today’s challenges.

Drew Morrow

Drew Morrow is a fleet professional with hands-on experience in technician development, shop operations, and industry certifications. With a strong background in ASE and EVT certifications, Drew is a vocal advocate for professional standards, continuous learning, and building high-performing teams in the face of ongoing technician shortages.