Building a Lasting Legacy in Vehicle Maintenance Through People-Centric Leadership
Todd Hawkins, senior vice president of maintenance at First Student, has spent nearly 46 years shaping the vehicle maintenance industry. Rather than focusing on numbers or fleet size, he emphasizes the importance of people—how to nurture, retain, and inspire them. As technician shortages grow across industries, Hawkins' strategies provide a roadmap for fostering a robust workforce by blending traditional leadership with cutting-edge technology.
Hawkins prioritizes investing in employees, promoting transparency, embracing innovation, nurturing leaders, and adapting to generational shifts. His approach not only reduces turnover rates but also cultivates a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. Certified technicians leave First Student at half the rate of uncertified staff, proving the effectiveness of his methods.
Cultivating Talent: Beyond Tools, Toward Growth
Todd Hawkins believes that attitude trumps aptitude when hiring new talent. By offering comprehensive training programs and encouraging professional certifications, First Student ensures its technicians are equipped with both skills and recognition. The company celebrates achievements like certifications through newsletters and social events, reinforcing the value placed on employee development.
Investment in people starts with identifying candidates who exhibit positive attitudes, even if they lack technical expertise initially. First Student provides full funding for ASE certification, which correlates directly with lower turnover rates among certified technicians. This focus on growth creates an environment where employees feel supported and motivated to excel. Celebrating milestones further strengthens this culture of appreciation, transforming jobs into long-term careers.
Empowering Teams Through Transparency and Innovation
Transparency is key to fostering accountability within teams. At First Student, shops receive monthly rankings based on performance metrics, creating opportunities for mentorship rather than punishment. Pairing underperforming locations with stronger ones encourages knowledge sharing, shifting the organizational culture from blame to collaboration. This system helps technicians learn from peers while improving overall efficiency.
In addition to transparent practices, Hawkins champions technological advancements such as predictive analytics and digital platforms. These tools enable early detection of mechanical issues, reducing breakdowns and enhancing fleet readiness. For younger recruits accustomed to tech-driven environments, these innovations serve as recruitment advantages. Furthermore, integrating systems like HALO unifies operations, providing real-time insights that boost safety and operational excellence. Embracing change while explaining its purpose ensures all team members understand and benefit from modern solutions.