They keep Sheriff’s deputies on the road, ambulances running and public health nurses arriving where they are needed most. Now, for the 14th time in 15 years, Wake County Fleet Operations has earned a place among the Top 100 Fleets in the Americas.
Wake County ranked No. 66 in the 2026 rankings, which recognize top-performing public and commercial fleet operations across North, Central and South America. The final rankings were announced at the NAFA Fleet Management Association Institute & Expo in Cleveland, Ohio.
The recognition reflects the scale and complexity of the operation managed by the County’s Fleet Operations team. Today, Fleet Operations maintains more than 1,100 vehicles and equipment assets and oversees the titling of nearly 1,300 vehicles, ranging from emergency response units to inspection and administrative vehicles.
In 2025 alone, Wake County vehicles logged more than 14 million miles, while the Fleet shop completed more than 7,000 repair orders. Supporting that work is a team of 26 Wake County employees and two outsourced NAPA employees who help manage daily operations.
Their responsibilities extend far beyond maintenance and repairs. Fleet Operations supports County departments through fueling services, motor pool operations, vehicle purchasing and replacement, preventive maintenance, body shop repairs, vehicle telematics, annual lease and fuel budgeting, reporting and cost-of-ownership analysis.
The team helps keep 18 County departments moving, including Communications, the Sheriff’s Office, EMS, Fire Services, Social Services, Public Health and the Bureau of Forensic Sciences.
What sets Wake County Fleet Operations apart is its strong focus on innovation and data-driven decision-making. The division uses integrated fleet management software, vehicle telematics and motor pool systems to improve efficiency and performance. Data helps guide everything from repair scheduling to vehicle replacement cycles, helping reduce downtime and maximize resources.
For Thomas Kuryla, the recognition is a reflection of the team behind the operation.
“Receiving this recognition is an opportunity to highlight and celebrate the hard work and dedication of the Fleet Operations staff,” Kuryla said. “The award reflects the team’s ongoing commitment to supporting County departments and helping them deliver essential services to Wake County residents every day.”
The achievement also reflects a long-standing tradition of excellence. Wake County Fleet Operations has earned Top 100 recognition in 14 of the past 15 years. The only year the County was not recognized was when it did not submit an application. The team’s highest ranking came in 2016, when Wake County placed third in the nation.
The 100 Best Fleets in the Americas program honors fleet operations that demonstrate high performance, innovation and continuous improvement.
