16th Annual NationaLease Tech Challenge

Registration

Headliners and Hitmakers: Dinner for Top Techs and Judges

Join us for an exclusive dinner in honor of the Top Techs and Judges from the 16th Annual NationaLease Tech Challenge at the 2026 NationaLease Maintenance Managers Meeting! This special event acknowledges top-tier talent in fleet maintenance, offering a unique opportunity for the distinguished participants to connect and celebrate excellence in the industry.

Opening Act: First-Timer Reception

An intimate gathering for new attendees, the First-Timer Reception offers a unique opportunity to network with our Premier Partners and Select Partners. Set in a casual atmosphere and surrounded by fellow first-timers, this reception is the perfect setting to forge connections and kick off your NationaLease experience on a high note.

Registration

Breakfast

Start Me Up: Welcome and Introductions

Begin the Maintenance Managers Meeting with a brief welcome and opening remarks to set the stage for the sessions ahead. This introduction will provide an overview of the meeting’s objectives, key topics to be discussed, and the importance of collaboration among maintenance leaders. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of what to expect from the meeting and how the discussions will support more efficient and effective fleet maintenance operations.

Jerry Greiner, VP Business Operations, Procurement, & Fleet Management, Transervice Leasing, a NationaLease Member

President's Welcome

Attend the President's Welcome featuring Dean Vicha, President of NationaLease! In this exclusive session, Dean Vicha will delve into current and future plans and goals for NationaLease, providing valuable insights into how technology and regulations may impact our maintenance teams. Don't miss this opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge from a visionary leader in the industry and understand the strategic direction that will shape the future of maintenance.

Dean Vicha, President, NationaLease

Battle of the Bands: Technical Edition

Introduction of Top Techs

Witness the Introduction of Top Techs by Dean Vicha, President of NationaLease, showcasing the best of the best who keep our trucks moving every day! Be part of the celebration as we extend our cheers and congratulations to these exceptional Top Techs. Don't miss this opportunity to applaud and honor the individuals who excel in keeping our fleet at its peak performance.

Dean Vicha, President, NationaLease

The Synthesizer: Blending Tech and Talent AI in the Shop

Join Armando Perez Carreno for a forward-looking session on how artificial intelligence is reshaping today’s maintenance shops. Learn how AI tools can support technicians, improve diagnostics, streamline workflows, and help managers better blend emerging technology with skilled talent to drive efficiency and uptime.

Armando Perez Carreno, Principal Software Engineer,
PerezCarreno & Coindreau

Roadies and Rockstars: Spouse Event

While attendees are in session, spouses are invited to enjoy a stylish outing of their own at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago. This fun and relaxed excursion offers the chance to explore top designer stores, discover great deals, and enjoy time with fellow spouses. Whether you’re browsing, shopping, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, this event is the perfect blend of fashion, fun, and connection.

Break

Rockin' the Shop Floor: Idea Session

Engage in creativity and innovation at the Idea Session with Lonnie Cook, Service Manager at Cargo Transporters Inc.! In this dynamic session, members will showcase their ingenious ideas and best practices that contribute to savings in money, time, productivity, improved morale, and/or increased customer satisfaction within their businesses. As an added twist, each member contributes $10 to the pool, and the top three ideas, determined by member votes, will receive cash awards. Don't miss this exciting opportunity to share, learn, and even compete for cash prizes in a session curated for fun and friendly competition.

Lonnie Cook, Service Manager, Cargo Transporters Inc.

School of Rock: Technician Training

Investing in technician development is critical to maintaining safe, reliable, and efficient fleet operations. This session will focus on best practices for technician training, including onboarding new technicians, advancing skills for experienced team members, and keeping pace with evolving vehicle technology. Attendees will gain insight into effective training strategies, tools, and programs that help improve performance, increase retention, and ensure their maintenance teams are prepared for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.

Edwin Benitez, Director of WFL, Lincoln Tech

William (Garrett) Crandell, Leader in workforce education and curriculum development, Lincoln Tech

Peter Golbin, National WFL Solutions Manager, Lincoln Tech

Christopher Menchaca, V.P. of the WorkforceLinc Division, Lincoln Tech

Lunch

Soundcheck: Reciprocal Service Review/Member Services Update

Delve into the heart of NationaLease with the Reciprocal Service Review/Member Services Update presented by Jane Clark, Senior Vice President of Operations! Join us for a comprehensive refresher on the cornerstone of NationaLease – Reciprocal Service, the very idea that initiated NationaLease 82 years ago. Jane will guide us through the essential requirements for all members, shed light on common pitfalls, and provide insights on how to avoid them. This session is a valuable opportunity to reinforce our commitment to Reciprocal Service and ensure a seamless experience within the NationaLease network.

Jane Clark, Senior Vice President of Operations, NationaLease

Shop Setlist: Supply Management – Closed Session

Gain exclusive insights into the latest in supply management during the Supply Management. Join us for an in-depth review of the performance levels year-to-date on our products and services, along with updates on the newest programs available to the membership. We will also delve into the ever-evolving sourcing environment trends, offering valuable perspectives on industry dynamics. This closed session provides a unique opportunity to stay ahead of cutting-edge developments in supply management.

Griffin Becker, Member Programs Manager, NationaLease

Backstage Expo: Product and Technology Fair

Immerse yourself in the expanding world of innovation at the Product & Technology Fair! This highly anticipated fair, growing each year, is your chance to explore the latest offerings from our Premier Partners, Select Partners, and exhibitors. Make the most of this opportunity to visit booths, discover cutting-edge products and services, and participate in exciting drawings for great prizes. Don't miss out on the chance to engage with industry leaders, explore advancements, and potentially walk away with fantastic rewards.

Unplugged: Dueling Pianos
Dinner and Entertainment

Wrap up the day with a night of dinner, drinks, and dueling pianos at the iconic Pete’s Dueling Pianos in Rosemont. This high-energy experience puts you in the driver’s seat as musicians battle it out on the keys for a one-of-a-kind interactive show. It’s the perfect mix of great food, lively entertainment, and relaxed networking as we unwind after a long day.

Breakfast

Jam Session: Regional Breakouts – Closed Session

Tailored exclusively for Maintenance Managers, this session provides a platform for connecting with counterparts in your region. Dive into discussions addressing issues specific to your area, explore strategies for enhancing our best-in-class Reciprocal Service network, and share insights on the current challenges at the forefront of your concerns. This closed session is designed to foster regional camaraderie and facilitate meaningful conversations that contribute to the collective success of our maintenance teams.

Break

Get in Tune: Manufacturers Maintenance Intervals

Manufacturer-recommended maintenance intervals play a critical role in maximizing uptime, controlling costs, and extending asset life. This session explores how to apply OEM guidelines in real-world operating conditions, balance compliance with efficiency, and identify opportunities to fine-tune service schedules without over-maintaining equipment.

John Campbell, Technical Support Manager, Cummins Inc.

Adam Mesker, Field Sales Engineering Manager, Daimler Trucks North America

Take the Stage: Preparing Your Shop for New Truck Technology

New truck technology is changing how maintenance shops operate. This session explores emerging technologies found in today’s trucks and what they mean for your shop—from diagnostic tools and training needs to workflow adjustments and technician readiness—helping you prepare for what’s next with confidence.

Chris DiSantis, Director of Training & Field Technical Support, Aim NationaLease

Lunch

Amped Up: Engine Updates

Stay current on the latest engine developments impacting today’s fleets. This session covers recent updates, performance considerations, and maintenance implications, helping maintenance managers anticipate changes, address common challenges, and keep equipment operating at peak efficiency.

John Campbell, Technical Support Manager, Cummins Inc.

Industry Spotlight: Manufacturers Update Breakout

Hear directly from leading manufacturers as Freightliner, Hino, and Thermo King share the latest updates impacting fleet maintenance and operations. This breakout provides you to choose two manufacturers and gain insights into new technologies, product enhancements, and service considerations, giving maintenance managers practical takeaways to support uptime, reliability, and informed decision-making.

1:30 PM-2:20 PM

Freightliner - O’Hare I-II
Hino - Kitty Hawk
Thermo King - Midway Auditorium

2:25 PM-3:15 PM

Freightliner - O’Hare I-II
Hino - Kitty Hawk
Thermo King - Midway Auditorium

Freightliner, Hino, Thermo King

Break

Bonus Track: Managing the Younger Generation in the Workforce

The workplace has shifted rapidly due to the pandemic and generational change. As Gen Z enters the workforce—often through virtual onboarding and remote environments—their influence is significant, even if less visible. Shaped by digital fluency and constant change, they seek purpose, authenticity, and meaningful contribution.

This workshop explores how to effectively engage a multi-generational workforce by moving beyond stereotypes to understand the strengths, values, and motivations of each generation. Participants will learn how mentorship, purpose, and intentional culture create environments where everyone feels valued, connected, and empowered to perform at their best.

Mary Erlain, President, Peak Development Strategies

Chart Toppers: Cocktail Reception and Awards Dinner

Celebrate excellence at the Cocktail Reception & Awards Dinner! This event is a tribute to our Exceptional Service Award winners and the announcement of the NationaLease Tech Challenge winners. Join us in expressing gratitude to those who have demonstrated exceptional service and applaud the achievements of the outstanding individuals in the NationaLease community. Indulge in great food, raise a toast to success, and take this opportunity to extend your heartfelt congratulations to your fellow NationaLease winners.