Industry Interview By Seth Skydel
Fleet Management 2.0
AI Revolutionizing Commercial Equipment Operations
There is no doubt that the fast-moving world of artificial intelligence( AI) is upon us. What IBM defines as“ technology that enables computers and machines to simulate human intelligence and problem-solving capabilities” is just as quickly being deployed in the systems and solutions used to manage commercial equipment operations.
The subject of how AI will continue to impact fleets was front and center at the 2024 EUFMC where Kenneth Jack, CEO of KenetIQ, discussed recent advancements in chip technology, increased accessibility to AI and how businesses looking for new efficiencies are thinking about where and how the technology could benefit their bottom line.
“ Applications for AI technology include camera and telematics data from equipment, online technician training, predictive maintenance, repair effectiveness analysis and lifecycle planning,” Jack said.“ Recent advancements that are bringing the discussion to the front lines involve more practical, efficient, accessible and affordable chip and AI technologies.”
AI driven systems and solutions, according to Jack, can be used to evaluate tasks such as work scheduling and Generative AI, like ChatGPT, can be used to write bulletins, outlines and reminders. For technician training, the technology is increasingly able to better tailor material and possibly predict maintenance issues.
“ AI is definitely something to ask about if you are using or considering fleet management or telematics systems,” Jack added.
Jack went on to advise fleets to ask several questions, including:
• Is there an opportunity to tie AI systems into other initiatives?
• What data do you have already that could benefit from the use of AI, such as maintenance, driver and fuel information?
• What specific problems could AI help solve?
• What is the cost of implementation, software and training?
• How do you determine if it’ s working?
• Are there options to do something small and low cost in parallel with existing systems?
• Is my team or company ready to try something like this?
Jack has vast experience as an energy, telecom and transportation executive. As mentioned above, he currently serves as the CEO of KenetIQ, a company that provides innovative solutions for fleet optimization. His background also includes serving as vice president of national fleet operations at Verizon, and he spent time as the general manager of transportation operations and as the section manager of substation planning at Con Edison. He has served as an independent director at Lightning eMotors, on the board of directors of the NAFA Fleet Management Association and on the General
20 CRANE HOT LINE ® August 2024 • www. cranehotline. com