The GSE Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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We sit down with ASAK’s CEO, Arnold Sue, to trace his path from JFK ramp hand to leading a full-service ground handler, and explore how electric GSE, telematics, and a community-first mindset are shaping Terminal 6. From equine cargo engineering to towbarless electric pushbacks, we focus on uptime, safety, and people.

• JFK roots, military discipline, and founding ASAK
• Building maintenance capability on and off airport
• Terminal 7 operations across above and below the wing
• Cargo, e-commerce, and on-airport fumigation
• How equine operations use K loaders and ULD logic
• Why electric GSE and conversion kits made sense
• Telematics for safety, battery status, and utilization
• Recruiting and growing next-gen technicians
• Terminal 6 GSE pooling, access control, and prep
• Community over competition across ground handlers
• Expansion beyond JFK to Latin America and beyond

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Looking for dependable and on demand ground support equipment leasing? Fortbrand is your go to partner. We specialize in tailored operating leases for airlines, cargo carriers, and ground handlers, delivering top tier equipment without the wait. From the latest electric GSE to traditional units, Fortbrand offers flexible terms, competitive rates, and a customer experience that is second to none. Keep your ramp moving with confidence. Visit fortbrand.com and experience GSE leasing redefined.

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In this episode of the GSE Podcast, host Matthew Weitzel sits down with Steve Thody (CEO, JFK Millennium Partners) and Jared Verano (CEO, Fortbrand Services) to explore the groundbreaking pooled ground support equipment (GSE) program at the new Terminal 6 at JFK International Airport.

Key Topics:

• JFK Millennium Partners’ leadership in the $19 billion redevelopment of Terminal 6, with major partners like Vantage Group, American Triple I, RXR Realty, and JetBlue.
• Introduction of the first large-scale pooled GSE operation in North America—leveraging technology, electrification, and collaboration to transform ramp and maintenance operations.
• Insights into the pooling concept: shared, high-efficiency, predominantly electric equipment managed through advanced telematics and supported by a carefully designed infrastructure.
• Collaborative, airline-driven selection process for vendors and ground handlers (Dnata, ASAK, WFS, Airway Cleaners) to promote buy-in and operational excellence.
• Discussion of operational risks and solutions, including charging infrastructure, backup power, safety, preventative maintenance, and robust training/certification programs for ground handlers.
• Vision for sustainability and customer experience, with digital signage and transparent operations.
• Plans to track progress and success by safety, efficiency, and industry impact—establishing JFK’s Terminal 6 as a model for airports globally.

Notable Quotes:

• “The emphasis is going to be on us to make sure we provide the equipment, get the correct training, and maintain robust certification for ground handlers.” — Steve Thody
• “This is the first time we’re seeing a trifecta of partnership—airport, airlines, and operators—pushing for innovation together.” — Jared Verano

Listen in to hear how JFK’s Terminal 6 is setting new industry standards for safety, sustainability, and efficiency in ground operations.

Looking for dependable and on demand ground support equipment leasing? Fortbrand is your go to partner. We specialize in tailored operating leases for airlines, cargo carriers, and ground handlers, delivering top tier equipment without the wait. From the latest electric GSE to traditional units, Fortbrand offers flexible terms, competitive rates, and a customer experience that is second to none. Keep your ramp moving with confidence. Visit fortbrand.com and experience GSE leasing redefined.

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Stepping into the world of advanced battery technology, this episode takes us to Kokomo, Indiana—the global headquarters of Green Cubes Technology. Here, we explore how lithium batteries are revolutionizing ground support equipment operations at airports worldwide.

Jerry Crump and Darren Kiefer walk us through Green Cubes' fascinating journey from their 1986 beginnings in small power electronics to becoming leaders in lithium battery technology for material handling and GSE applications. Their transition makes perfect sense—both industries require batteries that serve dual purposes as power sources and equipment ballast, though the adoption curves have differed significantly between the two sectors.

What truly distinguishes Green Cubes in the crowded battery market is their commitment to flexibility and customization. Rather than forcing customers to adapt to standardized products, they design solutions tailored to specific operational requirements. Their GSE SafeFlux battery system incorporates sophisticated protection mechanisms that prevent operation in potentially damaging conditions, such as charging when cells are below freezing or automatically throttling performance when temperatures rise too high.

Perhaps most refreshing is their approach to data sharing. While many manufacturers lock customers into proprietary systems, Green Cubes makes battery data freely available to any telematics platform a customer might prefer. This open architecture eliminates the frustration of managing multiple dashboards and logins while empowering operators to make data-driven decisions about their fleets.

With over 13,000 high-power systems deployed globally, their experience translates into batteries that perform reliably whether they're operating in the freezing temperatures of Minneapolis or the scorching heat of Phoenix. For airport operations seeking sustainable alternatives to conventional power sources, Green Cubes offers not just a battery, but a comprehensive power solution designed for the unique challenges of ground support equipment.

Looking to electrify your GSE fleet or upgrade your existing battery systems? Discover how Green Cubes' approach to lithium technology could transform your ground operations' reliability, sustainability, and performance.

Looking for dependable and on demand ground support equipment leasing? Fortbrand is your go to partner. We specialize in tailored operating leases for airlines, cargo carriers, and ground handlers, delivering top tier equipment without the wait. From the latest electric GSE to traditional units, Fortbrand offers flexible terms, competitive rates, and a customer experience that is second to none. Keep your ramp moving with confidence. Visit fortbrand.com and experience GSE leasing redefined.

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When Karim Ben Dhia founded Adveez in 2011, the company wasn't focused on airports at all - it was building hands-free access control systems for buildings. Today, with nearly 20,000 GSE units monitored worldwide, Adveez stands at the forefront of a technological revolution transforming ground operations at airports globally.

Product and Customer Success Director Matthias Moulinier takes us through this remarkable journey, revealing how their first aviation client simply wanted to prevent competitors from using their equipment on the ramp. That single need quickly expanded into a comprehensive tracking system collecting everything from GPS coordinates to engine hours, shock detection, and battery management data.

What makes GSE telematics fundamentally different from standard vehicle tracking? The lack of standardization. While passenger vehicles have universal OBD connections, every GSE manufacturer implements different systems requiring specialized hardware solutions. This technical challenge became Adveez's opportunity to develop purpose-built systems for the unique airport environment.

Perhaps most revealing is what the data shows about equipment utilization. Despite ramp operators consistently claiming equipment shortages, the metrics tell a different story - no customer ever utilizes more than 80-85% of their equipment simultaneously. This insight allows procurement teams to make data-driven investments rather than reacting to perceived shortages.

Looking forward, Adveez is pioneering innovations like charger management systems to optimize electric GSE infrastructure and camera monitoring to enhance safety. They're also developing AI algorithms that predict maintenance needs based on patterns detected across thousands of operating hours, moving from reactive to predictive operations.

As the industry gradually moves toward factory installations rather than field retrofits, Mathias works closely with manufacturers like Oshkosh to integrate these systems during production. However, challenges remain, particularly the lack of standardized data protocols - a topic currently being addressed in IATA and SAE working groups.

Curious about the future of GSE management or how these systems might benefit your operation? Visit www.adveez.com or connect with their team on LinkedIn to learn more about this rapidly evolving technology.

Looking for dependable and on demand ground support equipment leasing? Fortbrand is your go to partner. We specialize in tailored operating leases for airlines, cargo carriers, and ground handlers, delivering top tier equipment without the wait. From the latest electric GSE to traditional units, Fortbrand offers flexible terms, competitive rates, and a customer experience that is second to none. Keep your ramp moving with confidence. Visit fortbrand.com and experience GSE leasing redefined.

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Joe Davis shares his journey from aviation maintenance school graduate to Sales Account Manager and interim Service Manager at Oshkosh Aerotech, revealing how his hands-on technical experience provides unique value to customers.

• Starting in de-icing operations after 9/11 affected aviation job prospects
• Training new technicians through six-month apprenticeships with senior staff
• Offering factory training programs that attract 250 customers annually
• Commissioning new equipment and providing operational training for customers
• Using IOPS telematics to remotely diagnose equipment issues
• Sharing the epic story of de-icing a C-5 Galaxy with two feet of accumulated snow
• Discussing the B80 pushback's independent suspension and agile performance
• Explaining JetDock autonomous docking technology's precision and safety features
• Outlining electric pushback capabilities from B250 to B950 models
• Emphasizing proper battery management for electric GSE longevity

Contact your Oshkosh Aerotech sales representative to learn more about factory training programs, which are free for equipment owners and include daily lunch plus a social dinner event.

Looking for dependable and on demand ground support equipment leasing? Fortbrand is your go to partner. We specialize in tailored operating leases for airlines, cargo carriers, and ground handlers, delivering top tier equipment without the wait. From the latest electric GSE to traditional units, Fortbrand offers flexible terms, competitive rates, and a customer experience that is second to none. Keep your ramp moving with confidence. Visit fortbrand.com and experience GSE leasing redefined.

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Discover how a simple idea transformed the aviation industry through the eyes of our special guest, Eric Ball, the visionary CTO and co-founder of EBIS. From his early days transitioning from a tech background to mastering the aviation sector, Eric shares the fascinating journey of EBIS, a pioneering software that revolutionized ground support equipment. Join us as we uncover how this innovative tool evolved to captivate major airlines like Southwest, navigating through challenges and growth opportunities to become a cornerstone in the aviation world.

Explore the unexpected pathways that led to the evolution of ground support technology with insights from Eric Ball, along with contributions from Santo Schnatchu, Rick, and Crystal. Dive into the narrative of EBIS’s acquisition by Tron Air and how it sparked new innovations in maintenance software. Learn about the strategic melding of AI and human expertise and its impact on operational efficiency, as well as the hands-on empowerment of technicians who are at the heart of aviation maintenance.

Get ready to be inspired by stories of effective maintenance optimization with advanced tools like EVA software, and discover how data-driven decisions are transforming asset management. We offer a compelling look at how telemetry data and customer feedback are shaping future developments in ground support operations. Explore how AI is redefining technician efficiency, bridging communication gaps, and reducing operational costs. This episode is packed with insights into the cutting-edge technology propelling the aviation industry forward.

Looking for dependable and on demand ground support equipment leasing? Fortbrand is your go to partner. We specialize in tailored operating leases for airlines, cargo carriers, and ground handlers, delivering top tier equipment without the wait. From the latest electric GSE to traditional units, Fortbrand offers flexible terms, competitive rates, and a customer experience that is second to none. Keep your ramp moving with confidence. Visit fortbrand.com and experience GSE leasing redefined.

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Transitioning from a diesel mechanic to a key player in the ground support equipment (GSE) industry, Mark DiMaria's journey is nothing short of inspiring. His global career, marked by stints in Spain, Ireland, Norway, China, and Saudi Arabia, showcases the adaptability and dedication required to excel in this field. Uncover the unique moment at a Saudi holiday softball game that propelled Mark into a pivotal role with Stewart and Stevenson, where he went from technical instructor to managing their European office from a humble broom closet at KLM.

Billy Ash takes us further into the global nature of the GSE industry with his riveting career path, which was set in motion with a move from Tennessee to Texas. His chance encounter with Stewart and Stevenson led to a role that took him across the world 27 times, from Abu Dhabi to the United States. Billy's stories reveal the critical importance of skilled technicians in aviation ground support operations and his adventures highlight the industry's evolution, from pushbacks to air starts, showcasing the integral role of companies like Stuart and Stevenson.

As the GSE industry embraces electrification and technological advancements, challenges and opportunities abound. Our discussion covers the shift from mechanical systems to electric equipment and the implications of EPA regulations. Discover how training through online platforms like YouTube is revolutionizing the way technicians approach troubleshooting and maintenance. Finally, hear about innovative solutions like mobile charging stations and the potential for telematics to transform equipment management, setting the stage for an electrified future in ground support.

Looking for dependable and on demand ground support equipment leasing? Fortbrand is your go to partner. We specialize in tailored operating leases for airlines, cargo carriers, and ground handlers, delivering top tier equipment without the wait. From the latest electric GSE to traditional units, Fortbrand offers flexible terms, competitive rates, and a customer experience that is second to none. Keep your ramp moving with confidence. Visit fortbrand.com and experience GSE leasing redefined.

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Unlock the secrets of transitioning the Ground Support Equipment (GSE) sector to cleaner technologies with insights from Joe Anotti of TRC, a global engineering advisory and consulting firm. Discover how TRC is paving the way for sustainable transportation by navigating over 750 funding programs across the US and Canada to secure essential government grants and incentives. Whether you're curious about battery electric, hydrogen fuel cells, or the resurgence of natural gas and propane, Joe offers a comprehensive view of how these technologies are shaping the future of clean transportation.

Join the conversation as we explore the intricate dance of securing aviation-related funding, highlighting the roles and responsibilities shared by aviation authorities, airlines, and GSE operators. Joe sheds light on key grants like Vail and VW, and the pivotal DERA programs that integrate vehicle funding with crucial infrastructure projects. With state-level initiatives gaining momentum as federal support fluctuates, this episode underscores the unique opportunities for states to align their sustainability ambitions with the aviation sector's goals, all while ensuring public health and environmental benefits.

Peek into the future with a discussion on alternative fuels, autonomous vehicles, and the pressing infrastructure challenges faced by small ground handlers and airports. As we anticipate major global events like the World Cup and the 2028 Olympics, the conversation turns to electric fleet transitions and the entrepreneurial spirit required to overcome infrastructure constraints. Joe's expertise shines as he shares success stories and strategic advice on grant funding, revealing how TRC guides clients through complex processes to seamlessly integrate sustainability into their operations.

Looking for dependable and on demand ground support equipment leasing? Fortbrand is your go to partner. We specialize in tailored operating leases for airlines, cargo carriers, and ground handlers, delivering top tier equipment without the wait. From the latest electric GSE to traditional units, Fortbrand offers flexible terms, competitive rates, and a customer experience that is second to none. Keep your ramp moving with confidence. Visit fortbrand.com and experience GSE leasing redefined.

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of The GSE Podcast, host Matt Weitzel dives into the potential of integrating autonomous vehicles into the airport environment. Joined by a panel of industry experts including Terry Seaworth (HNTB), Brian Wemple (Piedmont Airlines), Marty Gray (Air Canada), Ruben Aradas (formerly UPS), and Dave Edwards (GSP Airport), the discussion unpacks the opportunities, challenges, and transformative potential of autonomous Ground Support Equipment (GSE). Key topics include safety improvements, operational efficiency, weather resilience, regulatory hurdles, and the future role of autonomous technology in both passenger and cargo operations.

Key Highlights:

• Opportunities with Autonomy:

• Enhanced safety and reduced equipment damage.

• Increased efficiency in operations, especially during peak and off-schedule times.

• Potential applications such as autonomous dollies and pushback vehicles.

• Challenges in Implementation:

• Regulatory and operational adjustments for airport environments.

• Training employees to work with and adapt to autonomous systems.

• Addressing weather-related and technical reliability concerns.

• Insights from the Panelists:

• Brian Wemple shares Piedmont Airlines’ experience with electric tractors and the excitement around autonomous safety benefits.

• Marty Gray emphasizes the need for employee buy-in and a culture shift to integrate autonomous vehicles effectively.

• Ruben Aradas discusses the potential for autonomous dollies in cargo operations to save critical time.

• Dave Edwards highlights the importance of controlled testing environments like airports to refine the technology.

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with your colleagues and peers in the GSE community. Don’t forget to rate and review The GSE Podcast on your favorite platform. Stay tuned for future episodes as we continue to bring you the latest trends, insights, and innovations in ground operations.

Links and Resources:

• Explore more about TractEasy’s autonomous solutions: https://xcedgse.com/

• Learn about Xcēd Ground Support Equipment Leasing: https://tracteasy.com/

Looking for dependable and on demand ground support equipment leasing? Fortbrand is your go to partner. We specialize in tailored operating leases for airlines, cargo carriers, and ground handlers, delivering top tier equipment without the wait. From the latest electric GSE to traditional units, Fortbrand offers flexible terms, competitive rates, and a customer experience that is second to none. Keep your ramp moving with confidence. Visit fortbrand.com and experience GSE leasing redefined.

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In this episode of The GSE Podcast, Matt Weitzel sits down with Jouni Sievilä, CEO of Navitec Systems, to explore the cutting-edge world of autonomous software solutions for ground support equipment (GSE). With over 26 years of experience in the automation industry, Jouni discusses how Navitec is bringing its deep knowledge from mining and industrial automation to transform the GSE sector.

Jouni highlights the significant benefits of integrating autonomous technology with electric GSE, the practical challenges of navigating complex airport environments, and how Navitec is helping OEMs fast-track their shift toward automation. The conversation touches on how autonomous solutions can enhance efficiency and safety in ground handling operations and the long-term potential for widespread adoption.

If you’re curious about the future of autonomous GSE, this episode provides insights from one of the leaders in automation innovation. Whether you're in operations, procurement, or interested in the latest GSE advancements, this is a must-listen!

Looking for dependable and on demand ground support equipment leasing? Fortbrand is your go to partner. We specialize in tailored operating leases for airlines, cargo carriers, and ground handlers, delivering top tier equipment without the wait. From the latest electric GSE to traditional units, Fortbrand offers flexible terms, competitive rates, and a customer experience that is second to none. Keep your ramp moving with confidence. Visit fortbrand.com and experience GSE leasing redefined.