Zonar Together User Conference  |  Session Details

Agenda dates, times or content are subject to change. Will keep this page updated with any new information

Welcome & Kickoff

Mike Gould | President & CEO | Zonar
Session type: Everyone
Time: 8:30 - 9:00 AM

Join us for the official kick-off of Zonar Together. President & CEO Mike Gould will set the stage for an exciting two days of collaboration, learning and innovation. We’ll embark on this adventure together, building connections and sparking ideas that will shape the future.

Keynote: What Legacy are You Leaving

Mike Lutzenkirchen | Executive Director | Lutzie 43 Foundation
Session type: Everyone
Time: 9:00 - 9:50 AM

The “What Legacy are you Leaving” talk offers a hard-hitting and honest discussion from Mike Lutzenkirchen, executive director of the Lutzie 43 Foundation, in honor of his son Philip. Distracted, impaired and unsafe driving does not discriminate; we need to prioritize safety behind the wheel through collaboration of the public and private sector. Lutzie 43 Foundation’s 43 Key Seconds safe driving initiative is the ideal intersection of social good and corporate success – proving its possible for businesses to integrate and embrace societal concerns into their core operating strategies, benefitting their businesses, employees, employee families, customers and communities they serve.

Industry updates from FMCSA

Darrell Ruben | Associate Administrator, Office of Safety | Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
Session type: Everyone
Time: 10:00 - 10:30 AM

Improving Fleet Management Together: The Future of Ground Traffic Control®

Carl Cutler | Principal Product Manager | Zonar
Dan Clem | Principal Product Manager | Zonar
Session type: Everyone
Time: 10:45 - 11:45 AM

Explore the future of Ground Traffic Control®. Our experts will share exclusive insights into the roadmap for the foundation for all our solutions and services. Learn about the newest features, enhancements and innovations.

Streamlining Fleet Management: How GTC Keeps 500+ Vehicles in Check

Gordon Ploof | Director of Quality Control | AA Transportation Co, Inc.
Session type: Everyone
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM

Managing over 500 vehicles is a complex task, but with Zonar, it becomes seamless. Join Gordon Ploof to explore how Zonar's comprehensive system helps AA Transportation Co., Inc. stay compliant with expiry reports, reduce EPA fines through idle time tracking, and streamline IFTA reporting. Discover how posted speed data can confirm or debunk issues and ensure all inspections are completed with missing inspection reports. Learn how these features have revolutionized our fleet management, enhancing efficiency and compliance. This session is essential for anyone looking to optimize their fleet operations with advanced technology.

In-Depth Insights and Live Demos with Ground Traffic Control®

Carl Cutler | Principal Product Manager | Zonar
Session type: Everyone
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM

Continue the product update journey with a comprehensive session that will include in-depth insights and live demonstrations on maintenance, safety, emissions checks, performance and asset recovery using the latest version of Ground Traffic Control. This session will be packed with valuable information, live demonstrations, and practical tips to help you optimize your fleet operations.

More Than Buses and Trucks: An Innovative Approach to Station Safety and Trackway Cleanliness

Timothy Parson | Lean Process/ Quality Engineer | Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA)
Session type: Everyone
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM

Interactive Product Training: Mastering Our Tools Together

Bryant Maxey | Senior Product Marketing Specialist | Zonar
Session type: Everyone
Time: 3:55 - 4:45 PM

Elevate your expertise in our Interactive Product Training session, designed to empower you with hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of our tools. Join our expert trainers as they guide you through practical exercises, real-world scenarios, and advanced functionalities of various products. This session will encourage active participation, allowing you to ask questions, share insights, and collaborate with peers. Whether you're a new user or looking to refine your skills, this training offers valuable tips and tricks to maximize your efficiency and productivity. Come ready to engage, learn, and master our tools together for greater success in your endeavors.

How to Build a "Train the Trainer" Program for a Successful Zonar Coach™ Launch

Lee Vohs | Telematics Specialist | SRM Concrete
Session type: Everyone
Time: 4:50 - 5:30 PM

The Zonar Lone Star Bash

Everyone
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM

Close out day one of Zonar Together with an evening of Southern hospitality. The vibrant spirit of Texas will meet the joy of unity and our Zonar community. Immerse yourself in the flavors of the Lone Star State with Texan food and drinks and party like a Texan with lively games and entertainment. Dress in your best Western attire and come together for an evening of fun, laughter, and celebration under the Texas stars.

Student Transportation

Keynote: AI for Everyone

James F. Dean | Global Generative AI GTM Specialist | Google
Session type: Everyone
Time: 9:00 - 10:00 AM

Product Roadmap Session: Charting the Future Together

Pablo Supkay | VP, Product Management | Zonar
Session type: Everyone
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 AM

Discover what lies ahead in our Product Roadmap Session, where we unveil the exciting developments and innovations on the horizon. Our product team will present the strategic vision for the next year, showcasing upcoming features, enhancements, and new solutions designed to meet your evolving needs. This session will provide a deep dive into our roadmap, highlighting key milestones and the value they bring to your experience. Gain insights into our development process, ask questions, and share your feedback to help shape the future of our products. Be the first to know what’s coming next and how it can empower your success.

Practical Steps for Recruiting and Retaining Drivers

Dean Pickard | Regional Account Manager | Zonar
Session type: Track A: Student Transportation
Time: 11:15 - 11:45 AM

Unlock the secrets to recruiting and retaining school bus operators with practical strategies in this session. Learn targeted recruitment techniques and innovative retention approaches tailored to the unique challenges of the industry. Discover how to create a supportive work environment, foster loyalty, and reduce turnover through professional development and communication strategies.

The Connected Driver: Using Technology and Metrics to Drive Performance

Tom St. Martin | Product Manager | National Express Corporation
Session type: Track A: Student Transportation
Time: 11:45 - 12:15 PM

Does the Perfect Bus Stop Exist? Identifying and Addressing Potential Problems with Telematics

Katrina Falk | Director of Transportation | Shelby Eastern Schools
Session type: Track A: Student Transportation
Time: 1:20 - 2:00 PM

In this roundtable-style discussion, Katrina invites others to discuss the hypothetical question: "Does the perfect bus stop exist?"

The perfect bus stop is only as perfect as conditions and human input will allow, but are we leading our departments and doing our due diligence to ensure our real-time operations are unfolding as planned? How are we responding to mounting local policies and procedures—and, more importantly, how are we proactively identifying and addressing potential problems in our own backyard? Does your department have a route audit process? How is your department leveraging technology to confirm the safest scenario for students and drivers? Regardless of the operation size, onboard telematics paired with in-office transportation technology plays a vital role in bus stop placement, bus stop evaluation, and safe and efficient routing. Having set methods for comparing actual versus planned data is vital. Take a seat at the table and help transform the reactive nature of our industry.

Ensuring Safe Journeys: The Transformative Power of Tech in School Transportation

Dr. James Hanna | Superintendent | Rossville Consolidated School District
Session type: Track A: Student Transportation
Time: 2:05 - 2:45 PM

Join this insightful session on transforming school bus transportation safety and efficiency. Discover how Rossville School District implemented Zonar's advanced GPS and monitoring systems, enhancing their ability to track buses, ensure driver accountability, and maintain safety. Learn from real-life experiences, including a critical incident that underscored the need for reliable technology. This session will cover the multiple benefits of Zonar, from real-time bus tracking and pre-trip inspections to ensuring buses are empty post-route. Gain valuable insights on how these innovations can make your transportation system run like a well-oiled machine.

From Nothing to a Full-Stack: Ripping off the Band-aid

Warren Lanphier | Director of Operations | School Bus, Inc.
Session type: Track A: Student Transportation
Time: 2:50 - 3:20 PM

Join this engaging session on the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from no technology to a comprehensive tech solution in school transportation. They’ll share their journey of implementing ZPass™, GPS, and tablets with turn-by-turn directions all at once. Learn about the pain points they encountered, the valuable lessons they learned, and what they’d do differently. Discover how these technologies have transformed their operations and how they’re performing today. Gain practical insights to help you navigate your own tech implementation smoothly and effectively.

Mastering the Roads: Exploring Ground Traffic Control and South Putnam Schools

Bradley Ogborn | Director of Transportation | South Putnam Community School Corporation
Session type: Track A: Student Transportation
Time: 3:30 - 4:10 PM

Whether you're new to Zonar’s Ground Traffic Control or a seasoned expert, this session is designed for you! Join the Director of Transportation for South Putnam Schools, a small district in Greencastle, Indiana, and the proud recipient of the 2019 Zonar All Star Bronze award. He uses GTC daily and is excited to share his insights with you. During this session, you'll also have the chance to exchange experiences with fellow attendees in the dynamic and rewarding world of school bus transportation.

Voices Across Industries: A Cross-Industry Customer Panel

Session type: Everyone
Time: 4:15 - 5:15 PM

Close out the Zonar Together conference with an engaging session featuring a diverse panel of industry leaders who will share their experiences and insights on implementing Zonar technology. Moderated by Zonar’s general managers of truck and passenger services, Nick Grandy and Tim Ammon, respectively, this cross-industry discussion will explore the unique challenges and successes faced by various sectors. Gain valuable perspectives on best practices, innovative applications, and the transformative impact of Zonar across multiple industries. No matter your industry, this session will offer actionable insights—direct from your peers—to enhance your operations and drive success.

Closing Remarks

Mike Gould | President & CEO | Zonar
Session type: Everyone
Time: 5:15 - 5:30 PM

Freight, Vocational & Other Industries

Keynote: AI for Everyone

James F. Dean | Global Generative AI GTM Specialist | Google
Session type: Everyone
Time: 9:00 - 10:00 AM

Product Roadmap Session: Charting the Future Together

Pablo Supkay | VP, Product Management | Zonar
Session type: Everyone
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 AM

Discover what lies ahead in our Product Roadmap Session, where we unveil the exciting developments and innovations on the horizon. Our product team will present the strategic vision for the next year, showcasing upcoming features, enhancements, and new solutions designed to meet your evolving needs. This session will provide a deep dive into our roadmap, highlighting key milestones and the value they bring to your experience. Gain insights into our development process, ask questions, and share your feedback to help shape the future of our products. Be the first to know what’s coming next and how it can empower your success.

Navigating Compliance and Safety with CVSA’s Roadside Inspections Specialist

Jeremy Disbrow | Roadside Inspections Specialist | Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA)
Session type: Track B: Freight, Vocational & Other Industries
Time: 11:15 - 11:45 AM

Join CVSA’s Jeremy Disbrow for a session designed to enhance your understanding of regulatory compliance and safety. Given his experience, he’ll provide valuable insights on what enforcement is on the lookout for, ELDs and the importance of pre- and post-trip inspections—and how they’re done properly. You'll gain a thorough understanding of HOS regulations, including common violations to watch out for.

ATA Safety and Regulatory Update

Dan Horvath | Senior Vice President, Regulatory Affairs and Safety Policy | American Trucking Associations (ATA)
Session type: Track B: Freight, Vocational & Other Industries
Time: 11:45 - 12:15 PM

Dan Horvath, American Trucking Association’s (ATA) SVP of Regulatory Affairs and Safety Policy, will discuss the latest rulemakings impacting your industry, including attempts to reclassify marijuana and its impacts. Dan will discuss DOT’s regulatory agenda, as well as the impacts the 2024 elections may have on the regulatory process.

Transforming Fleet Management: From Zero to Zonar

Shaun Adams | Fleet Manager/Public Works | City of Draper
Session type: Track B: Freight, Vocational & Other Industries
Time: 1:20 - 2:00 PM

One year ago, the City of Draper transitioned to Zonar, revolutionizing their fleet management. Upon Shaun Adam's arrival, garbage trucks and plows lacked pre-and post-trip inspections. With GTC and EVIR®, they now monitor and track these inspections, ensuring they’re not only completed but also of the highest quality. Join Shaun to learn about their journey, the challenges they overcame, and the significant improvements they've seen since.

Empowering Infrastructure: Cutting-Edge Solutions for Power Utility Contractors

Justin Brands | Fleet Manager, Southern California | Hot Line Construction, Inc.
Session type: Track B: Freight, Vocational & Other Industries
Time: 2:05 - 2:45 PM

In this session, Fleet Manager Justin Brands will explore the strategies that Hot Line Construction uses for loss and theft recovery, optimized maintenance planning, and enhanced fleet safety. He’ll show how they use Maps for timekeeping, resolving customer complaints, preventing fuel theft, reducing idle times, and improving repair uptime. He’ll also cover effective storm response with asset tracking and demonstrate practical use cases. This session is ideal for fleet managers and safety officers aiming to leverage technology for better asset management and operational efficiency.

In-Cab Camera Pilot Rollout: Field Insights and Lessons for Success

Tony Cruz | Fleet Manager, Colorado | MasTec
Session type: Track B: Freight, Vocational & Other Industries
Time: 2:50 - 3:20 PM

Join Dagoberto “Tony” Cruz from MasTec for an in-depth exploration of the Zonar Coach™ pilot implementation across multiple sites. In this session, Tony will share the comprehensive journey of integrating Zonar Coach™, highlighting the good, the bad, and even the ugly. Discover the challenges faced and overcome during the rollout and learn about the successes achieved with a diverse range of drivers. He’ll provide practical insights into how MasTec effectively introduced a camera solution, ensuring enhanced safety and compliance. From initial hurdles to ultimate triumphs, this session offers valuable lessons for anyone considering or currently navigating a similar implementation.

Change Management and Transforming Safety, Uptime and Analytics

Adam Riddell | Vice President of Operations | Superior Bowen
Session type: Track B: Freight, Vocational & Other Industries
Time: 3:30 - 4:10 PM

Discover Superior Bowen's transformative journey using Zonar within a captive insurance group. This session will delve into their approach to change management, boosting equipment uptime and reliability, and leveraging Power BI for data-driven decisions. Learn how Zonar has been pivotal in enhancing their safety protocols and overall operational efficiency. Gain insights into managing by the numbers and ensuring peak performance in your own organization through innovative technology solutions.

Voices Across Industries: A Cross-Industry Customer Panel

Moderated by Nick Grandy & Tim Ammon | Zonar
Session type: Everyone
Time: 4:15 - 5:15 PM

Close out the Zonar Together conference with an engaging session featuring a diverse panel of industry leaders who will share their experiences and insights on implementing Zonar technology. Moderated by Zonar’s general managers of truck and passenger services, Nick Grandy and Tim Ammon, respectively, this cross-industry discussion will explore the unique challenges and successes faced by various sectors. Gain valuable perspectives on best practices, innovative applications, and the transformative impact of Zonar across multiple industries. No matter your industry, this session will offer actionable insights—direct from your peers—to enhance your operations and drive success.

Closing Remarks

Mike Gould | President & CEO | Zonar
Session type: Everyone
Time: 5:15 - 5:30 PM