Entrepreneur always seemed like a funny word. Just say it in your head.

People often claim to be an entrepreneur. Many like to tell other people that they are entrepreneurs – “you seem like one heck of an entrepreneur!” one might say at a fancy dinner, a softball game or at the local lemonade stand.

By and large though, we all tend to forget to recognize what these business people who operate as their own business do for our financial system.  


Entrepreneurs are the foundation of any small business. In turn, small businesses are the strength of the economy at the state and local levels. Here’s an opportunity to mention a select group of Californians who were recognized by FedEx as “Entrepreneurs of the Year.”

Bruce Eucce Transportation, Ventura

When Bruce Eucce Transportation began contracting with FedEx Ground in 1988, the company’s goal was to invest in one or two work areas. Twenty-one years later, the business, which is owned by Bruce Eucce, consists of seven work areas and multiple vehicles and drivers to service them. In addition, the business includes a driving school.

Bruce Eucce Transportation prides itself on securing new business and fostering a sense of teamwork among its employees.

Richard Kasaine, Santa Rosa

Entrepreneur Richard Kasaine owns a business that includes six PSAs, seven vehicles and seven drivers who offer excellent customer service and who strive to operate accident free in Santa Rosa, California.

In the station, Richard is known for the close relationships he has developed with FedEx Ground managers, sales representatives and customers. Carrying a business shirt and tie, Richard arrives at the station, meets and dispatches his drivers, then changes his clothes so that he can accompany FedEx sales team members to customer sites.

Gary Martin Trucking, Sacramento

As a child, Gary Martin of Gary Martin Trucking, wanted to own his own trucking company. At the age of 18, Gary began working in the industry on the dock. Several years later, he entered into a lease agreement with a trucking company. In 2001, Gary Martin Trucking became a FedEx Ground contractor. Today, the business includes four tractors and six drivers who operate three assigned runs.

Gary believes that great employees make a business thrive. “I’ve always done whatever I can do to not only hire, but also retain the best drivers possible,” he states. “I have a modern fleet of trucks, which I upgrade regularly. I buy top-of the- line equipment and pay well, which makes the job for my drivers rewarding. In return, I get a lot of loyalty from them.”

Ed’s Transportation, Oakland

Edwin Zhao, of Ed’s Transportation, ensures his nine employee drivers can answer any question a customer has about the FedEx Ground and FedEx Home Delivery service offerings.

He believes that first impressions are long lasting, so he maintains an immaculate fleet of six vehicles and makes sure his drivers are well groomed and wearing a clean uniform each day. Most importantly, Edwin places a high value on common courtesy and asks his drivers to extend it to everyone.

James Spencer can be reached at jspencer@publicceo.com