NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA), the vehicle fleet industry’s largest membership association, on March 20 announced Robert Martinez, principal, RSM Consulting Services, as this year’s recipient of the Tom Johnson Award.
This award was created to honor the legacy of Tom Johnson, founder of the 100 Best Fleets in the Americas competition program. The Tom Johnson Award recognizes fleet professionals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, mentorship and long-term dedication to improving fleet operations and advancing the fleet industry.
“Robert Martinez exemplifies the best of the fleet industry,” said Bill Schankel, CAE, CEO of NAFA. “He represents all of the qualities that Tom Johnson brought to our community for decades such as leadership, dedication, determination, creative problem-solving, and vision.”
Over a remarkable career that began in 1986 as an auto service worker with the New York Police Department, Martinez rose to deputy commissioner of the Support Services Bureau. During his tenure, he modernized fleet operations, strengthened accountability systems, and established new performance standards that elevated public-sector fleet management. He has contributed extensively to NAFA through committee and board leadership. His sustained commitment to NAFA and to the development of fleet professionals has made a lasting impact on both the association and the broader fleet community.
Martinez will be honored with the Tom Johnson Award at the 2026 Institute & Expo (I&E) General Session on Monday, April 13, 2026.
The Tom Johnson Award is given to individuals who have demonstrated significant contributions to the fleet industry through leadership and service. To be eligible for the award, candidates must have at least 15 years of experience in fleet management, with a proven record of mentoring, coaching and sharing their knowledge with peers. They must be recognized thought leaders, often presenting at national conferences, contributing to industry publications and holding respected certifications. Additionally, recipients must have been involved in the 100 Best Fleets Award program or similar initiatives and have made significant contributions to both their organizations and the broader community.
