Feature story
Meet Rob Scharf, a fuel management information system (FMIS) operations analyst whose work is crucial in helping enhance and transform the City's Fleet Services operations. Rob helps to ensure that the City's vehicles are always ready to hit the road. His journey with the City enabled him to explore his passion for the industry and his hands-on experience and dedication has helped make fleet operations more efficient.
“I started my career with the City of Ottawa as a fleet maintenance welder, leveraging over a decade of experience running my own welding company,” Rob said when asked about how his career with the City began. “This role allowed me to deeply engage with the City's operations and policies, where I developed a profound appreciation for the complexities of municipal fleet management. After three enriching years, I transitioned into a technology-focused role as an FMIS support analyst, and subsequently, advanced to an FMIS operations analyst.”
Rob’s expertise is used quite a bit in his current position.
“My role revolves around enhancing operational processes through automation and data analysis. I use tools to develop insights from various data sources, which allows for informed decision-making. My work often involves designing artificial intelligence models to automate tasks, significantly improving efficiency across departments. This strategic use of technology not only supports the City's operations but also positions Fleet Services as a leader in innovative, data-driven management practices.”
We asked Rob to tell us about one of his most memorable moments working with Fleet Services.
“One of the most memorable moments was the successful implementation of a predictive maintenance program for our vehicles. By integrating artificial intelligence models with our maintenance database, we were able to predict potential vehicle and equipment failures before they occurred, drastically reducing downtime and repair costs. This project not only demonstrated the tangible benefits of integrating technology into fleet management but also underscored the collaborative spirit of our team, making it a standout achievement in my career.”
Rob also provided some advice to those who are interested in the field.
“I’d recommend cultivating a strong foundation in both mechanical skills and technology. The ability to adapt and integrate new technologies into fleet operations is increasingly crucial. Embrace every learning opportunity and seek roles that challenge and expand your skill set. The field offers a dynamic environment where technical awareness and problem-solving skills can significantly impact the efficiency and sustainability of operations.”
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.