Francisco Franco, 26

Franco Trucking Inc., a Carson logistics-transportation company that moves goods from the ports complex to their destinations.

Employees: 140 (including independent contractors)

Financials: N/A

What led you to start your own business?

I’ve always wanted to run my own business, so I decided to take that jump. My whole family is in the trucking industry, so it runs in the family.

Where did you get the startup money?

It was the support from my family. I couldn’t have done it without them.

What’s been the biggest challenge so far?

The growing pains. I learn something new every day in this industry. One of my biggest challenges is providing enough work assignments to our independent contractors and also keeping all of our independent contractors compliant with (California Highway Patrol) and (Department of Transportation) rules.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned?

I’ve learned so many. I’m a huge believer that you treat people how you like to be treated. Running a business takes a lot of responsibilities. Always be yourself and never change.

How many hours a day do you put in?

My first six years I lived in my office. I was working 80-plus hours a week. Now that I have everything in place, such as my management team and employees, I’m now working anywhere from 50 to 60 hours a week but am on call 24-7.

Has your youth led to any awkward situations, such as when you supervise older employees?

Yes, most definitely. I will get this a lot from

my customers. I think it was more of a trust issue. All I needed was my foot in the door; and after, it was magic.

Would you start another company?

Of course. I’m a very hard-working person that never puts no for an answer. Remember, “The sky is not the limit if there are footprints

on the moon.”

Could you ever work for someone else?

As of right now, I’ll say no. I don’t think that’s a fit for me.

What do you do to unwind?

I love to spend time with my family, friends, and, most importantly, my girlfriend. I also love coffee, so I like to try new coffee shops around the area. You never know, maybe opening up my own coffee shop will be my next new venture.

– Howard Fine