The FORS Practitioner training programme has reached an exciting milestone, 4,000 graduates. We are proud to celebrate Samantha McBride, Compliance Officer at FORS Accredited organisation AdComms, as our 4,000th FORS Practitioner.
As the FORS Practitioner training programme approaches its 13th anniversary in April, this milestone highlights more than a decade of empowering transport professionals with the skills and knowledge to deliver best practice in fleet management and compliance.
About the FORS Practitioner training programme
Designed to go beyond compliance, the FORS Practitioner training programme provides practical tools and insights that help professionals uphold the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and environmental performance across their operations.
The programme is made up of 16 training modules, covering all aspects of fleet management and compliance. The courses are available through a state-of-the-art virtual platform, making it easy for professionals to attend with minimal disruption to day-to-day operations.
To mark this achievement, we spoke with Samantha about her career, her experience of the FORS Practitioner training programme, and her views on the future of compliance in the transport sector.
From transport coordinator to compliance officer
Q: Can you tell us about your journey into the transport and logistics industry and how you became a Compliance Officer?
Since joining my company in 2012, I have embarked on an incredible journey that began as a Transport Coordinator and Compliance Officer. My experience grew as I transitioned to the procurement department, where I developed new skills. In October 2024, I took on the role of Compliance Manager.
The transport industry has evolved significantly over the years, and I am passionate about continuously learning and improving our processes to help drive the success of our business.
A day in the life of a transport compliance officer
Q: What does a typical day look like for you?
No day is the same. Right now, we are procuring a new fleet of vehicles, which brings its own set of challenges. Alongside this, ensuring our drivers stay current with their FORS training is a daily priority.
I could be dealing with driving penalties one moment and focusing on vehicle maintenance the next. Keeping our drivers informed about compliance procedures is crucial to maintaining a safe and efficient operation.
The FORS Practitioner training experience
Q: What inspired you to pursue the FORS Practitioner training programme? How have you applied what you have learned?
AdComms is proud to be FORS Accredited, and I was motivated to undertake the training to further support our compliance goals. I now use what I have learned in my day-to-day work and actively encourage our drivers to maintain their training.
This hands-on approach helps foster a supportive and compliant culture where drivers feel empowered to develop their skills.
Q: What sets the FORS Practitioner training programme apart?
The variety and accessibility of the courses really stand out. Learning alongside other transport professionals was incredibly beneficial.
Q: Has the training improved compliance and operational performance at your organisation?
Absolutely. Each course offered valuable insights and practical strategies. I have integrated many of these learnings into our business processes, helping to improve performance and compliance across our fleet.
Q: Were there any standout courses for you?
I particularly valued Module 3: Managing driver fitness and health. This course provided excellent guidance on managing driver training and wellbeing, an essential area of compliance.
Q: Would you recommend FORS training to other compliance managers?
One hundred per cent, no doubt about it.
Q: What advice would you give to other transport professionals considering FORS Practitioner training?
Go for it. The collaborative learning environment really enhances the experience. The ability to share knowledge and ideas with other professionals in the industry is incredibly valuable.
The future of compliance in transport
Q: How do you ensure your team stays up to date with changing regulations?
I stay informed through the FORS website and regularly share key updates with our drivers via our company portal.
Q: What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the transport industry today?
The rising cost of fuel is a significant challenge. Increases in fuel prices put pressure on profit margins and can make it harder to offer competitive pricing.
Q: How do you see the role of compliance evolving in the transport industry?
The importance of compliance will only continue to grow. As regulations evolve, it is essential for transport professionals to stay informed and adopt best practices. This not only helps maintain competitive advantage but also supports the trust and confidence of customers and partners.
Interested in becoming a FORS Practitioner?
Join Samantha and thousands of other professionals who have benefited from FORS Practitioner training. The programme is available via the FORS Professional Booking Platform, with courses delivered through an advanced virtual learning environment, reducing travel time, costs, and environmental impact.
For more information about the programme and its many benefits, contact us at [email protected].