Insights from Kevin French: A Journey in Transportation Technology

Membership and Engagement with TTA

How long have you been a member of TTA?

For over 40 years, every technology company I’ve worked for has been a member of the TTA. This includes companies like Gandalf, GMSI, Sigem, Mobile Knowledge, CMT, and iCabbi. The first event I attended was at the Tropicana in Las Vegas, either in the late 80s or early 90s.

Why did you join TTA?

TTA is the largest yearly gathering of industry players. It is the one event that connects iCabbi customers, prospects, partners, and even competitors.

What’s your favorite part of being a member of TTA?

My favorite part of TTA and its events is how it provides a litmus test for the industry. It helps us gauge the opportunities and pain points in the market. This insight helps validate our plans for future growth.

The Impact of Committees on Industry Progress

What committee do you currently serve on?

I have served on the Solution Providers and Business Development Committees. The inclusion of vendors on these committees represents a significant step forward. We bring a different perspective on various challenges and opportunities.

Company and Industry Insights

What city are you located in and what is the size of your fleet?

I am based in Ottawa, Canada. iCabbi works with over 1,000 fleets and more than 100,000 vehicles across 15 different countries.

What type of service does your company provide?

iCabbi offers technological solutions for all types of transportation providers. We invite you to visit us at any of the shows or check out our website at www.icabbi.com.

Core Values in Transportation

What do you love most about the transportation industry?

As a technology company, we often hire individuals from outside the sector. One concept resonates with everyone: the mission to move people efficiently and safely. Many passengers, such as the elderly and those with disadvantages, rely on this service. Our work is essential for the community, and the iCabbi team takes great pride in that.

How do you define success?

Success means empowering people through our technology. It should meaningfully enhance operations for fleets, operators, drivers, and passengers. True win-win outcomes matter. Our Move AI technology exemplifies this by optimizing work with both taxis and NEMT vehicles. We consider the strengths of both drivers and vehicles to serve passengers effectively.

Mentorship and Guidance in Transportation

If you could choose anyone as a mentor, who would you choose and why?

In my early years, I worked with multiple senior telecom veterans. They were instrumental in building international companies. It was enlightening to bounce ideas off them, often leading to unexpected insights. I once joked about how big companies are just small teams held together. Their answer? "Big companies are just a bunch of small ones duct-taped together—same chaos, just with more meetings."

What advice would you give to someone wanting to enter the transportation industry?

Enter for the right reasons and ensure you have a passion for it. Many taxi and NEMT fleets started due to personal necessity. Their stories underscore the importance of genuine motivation.

Continuous Learning and Insights

What’s one thing you’ve learned recently?

Everyone has used CAPTCHA (Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart) at some point. Recently, I discovered that people’s answers to countless pictures sometimes train AI. Ever wondered why so many are about crosswalks or transportation?

Personal Reflections

What’s a fun fact about you that not many people know?

I have volunteered as a coach for various sports teams. This is the best "management" training available!

What’s the last book you read?

One of my most recent reads is Scary Smart: The Future of Artificial Intelligence and How You Can Save Our World by Mo Gawdat. It provides an intriguing perspective on AI.

What is your favorite hobby?

I love getting on the water in my kayak. It's a great escape from daily stress. I wish there were more hours in the day for this!

What’s the first concert you ever attended?

As a Canadian, my first concert was Loverboy opening for April Wine at the Montreal Forum. Heart and Cheap Trick were also there!

What’s next on your travel bucket list?

I have never visited Australia or New Zealand. They are at the top of my list!

Are you currently binge-watching any shows?

I just finished Adolescence on Netflix. It consists of four hour-long episodes filmed in a single take. The style enhances the already intense storyline.

If you had to eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?

It must be pizza! You can always change the toppings for variety.

What’s one item you can’t live without?

Honestly, I don't think there's one specific item. I considered my phone, but I might be happier without it!

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