This is the fourth article in the Operations series.
By: Corey Mobley, internal communications student assistant
Every vehicle that moves across Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) — whether it is a golf cart delivering event supplies or a shuttle carrying students to research sites — relies on the Fleet team in Operations. The department handles everything from purchasing and maintenance to logistics and vehicle reservations, keeping the campus in motion day after day.
Edward Dyal, assistant director of campus logistics, leads Fleet. He oversees 44 active vehicles divided among Operations, Facilities, Enrollment Management and Public Safety. Eight vehicles are available for campus reservations, with shuttles and vans frequently used by faculty, staff and athletics for conferences, field trips, games and research projects.
Dyal’s approach to fleet management centers on accessibility and service.
“Our goal is to make getting a vehicle as easy as possible,” he said. “If you’re headed to a conference, we’ll make sure a sedan is ready and fuel covered.”
Each vehicle also comes with a Peach Pass for in-state travel. Even same-day requests for golf carts or equipment are often fulfilled to support campus events and initiatives.
“My only request is that departments submit a reservation through the Employee Resources Team Operations channel under Fleet,” Dyal added.
Getting certified to operate GGC’s fleet vehicles is a required and straightforward process. Individuals with a good motor vehicle record, a Georgia driver’s license and who are over 21 years old can become certified.
For those interested in driving the larger shuttle buses, which carry more than four passengers, the department requires completion of a defensive driving course.
“We take potential candidates out on test drives to let them drive the shuttle buses because they are pretty big trucks,” Dyal said. “Anybody can handle them, but we prefer to give prospective drivers some practice so they’re not nervous. Then we certify them to drive the passenger shuttles.”
That commitment to reliability drives Dyal’s daily work. Fleet covers more than 90 percent of campus reservations, allowing faculty and staff time to focus on their programs and events rather than transportation logistics.
“I take pride in making sure the campus keeps moving,” he said.
The department recently expanded its capabilities with a new 32-passenger motor coach, designed to reduce costs and increase convenience for groups such as GGC Athletics. A new transportation coordinator, certified as a Class B driver, will soon oversee motor coach operations and scheduling.
“The bus is here, fully wrapped with GGC graphics, and we’re excited to begin reservations soon,” Dyal said.
Fleet also manages the online reservation system for faculty and staff. While most requests are submitted through the Employee Resources Team Operations channel, Dyal will help new employees access the system directly to ensure no one is left waiting.
Beyond vehicle management, the department’s work also encompasses campus projects, fabrication and unique collaborations. A notable example is the glass display case in the president’s suite showcasing GGC’s ceremonial mace and medallion, designed and built over two years through a collaboration and diligent support of the president’s office and Sloan Jones, chief of staff.
From maintaining vehicles to creating displays that honor GGC’s traditions and milestones, Dyal’s dedication ensures the college keeps moving efficiently, dependably and with pride.
For more information, contact Travel [at] ggc.edu (Edward Dyal).