by Women In Trucking Staff, on Mar 27, 2026 11:39:41 AM
Carmen Anderson and Fran Bernard at the 28th Annual Richard Crane Memorial Truck Show.
Fran Bernard was encouraged from a young age to pursue a career in trucking - an industry she would help shape for decades. Inspired by her father, who was a truck driver, Bernard developed an early love for trucking. Her first car, equipped with a CB radio, became a symbol of her connection to the industry, and she was known by the handle “Daddy’s Little Girl!”
Dick Crane poses with a couple of his show trucks.
In her early 20s, Bernard began her career working at her dad’s truck driving school. She dedicated herself to truck driver education, focusing particularly on empowering new drivers and supporting women in a traditionally male-populated field.
Bernard’s career progression in the trucking industry was steady and impressive. She started as a receptionist but quickly took on more responsibilities, earning promotions to roles such as secretary and then sales representative. Her adaptability and commitment led her to serve as a financial aid advisor, helping aspiring drivers secure the resources they needed for their training. Ultimately, Bernard became district manager, overseeing operations and guiding the growth of the trucking schools where she worked.
A major milestone in Bernard’s career was founding her own truck driving school. Under her leadership, the school enabled many individuals to earn commercial driver licenses and secure stable employment. Achieving the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET) accreditation not only demonstrated the school’s educational quality but also enhanced its standing, making a tangible impact on students’ careers.
International Trucking School (ITS) employees at Lansing, MI location with Congressman Tim Walburg (fourth from left).
Bernard distinguished her schools by offering high-quality training and job opportunities for students, even before graduation. Her school earned Professional Truck Drivers Institute of America (PDIA) certification, and she actively participated in the Commercial Vehicle Training Association (CVTA), the largest association of professional truck driver training programs in the United States. CVTA aims to improve safety, reduce barriers to entry, and promote professionalism among drivers in transportation. Bernard joined fellow CVTA members on Capitol Hill for CVTA Hill Day, sharing experiences with lawmakers and educating Congress on ways to support the trucking industry’s growth.
Fellow Commercial Vehicle Training Association (CVTA) members with Fran Bernard (2nd from left) on Capitol Hill for CVTA Hill Day.
Bernard’s principle was to push boundaries and prepare her students to excel after earning a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). She operated schools in Michigan, Oklahoma, and New Mexico, and partnered with community colleges to offer truck driver training and, in some cases a degree in transportation.
Bernard’s journey was not without challenges. At the start of her career, very few women were truck drivers, and even fewer owned truck driving schools. By building her own business and advocating for gender equality, Bernard navigated the “Good Ole Boys Club,” and contributed to making the industry more inclusive for women. Bernard was thrilled to meet Ellen Voie, Founder of Women in Trucking (WIT) and work with the association. Bernard would generously pay the first year’s WIT membership for all women students who graduated from her truck driving schools.
Rick Crane, Carmen Anderson, Fran Bernard, Ellen Voie, WIT Founder, at the Richard Crane Memorial Truck Show.
Bernard took joy in seeing more women engage in all aspects of trucking. She recalls a memorable student, Terry, who nearly quit from intimidation but, with Bernard and her instructors’ support, gained the confidence to continue. A year later, Terry returned as a successful driver and future trainer. Having just made her last payment on her truck, she stepped out and walked over in her 6” red stilettos and gave Bernard a hug. She was so thankful for the lasting impact of Bernard’s guidance. After 30 years, Bernard sold her school to an instructor dedicated to continuing her legacy of quality training and helping others gain rewarding jobs.
Bernard co-founded the Richard Crane Memorial Foundation (RCMF) with her brother Rick to honor their father, who passed away from lung cancer. As a cancer survivor, Bernard wanted to preserve her father's memory. The Annual Richard Crane Memorial Truck Show, which began with just nine trucks in St. Ignace, Michigan in 1996, has grown significantly, with over 300 trucks expected in the “Parade of Lights” across the Mackinac Bridge this coming September.
The RCMF raises funds for cancer research in support of the Helen Moss Cancer Research Foundation. Richard “Dick” Crane was known for supporting causes like Trucker’s Aid to help truckers and their families. His legacy continues to inspire and support drivers today. Bernard remains dedicated to helping others succeed in the trucking industry.
Employees from International Trucking School (ITS), National Association of Show Trucks (NAST), and St. Ignace Visitors Bureau with a check for the Helen Moss Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Fran Bernard is second from left.
In recent years, Bernard has contributed to WIT by writing HERstories and other related articles. She continues to be passionate about her involvement in the trucking industry. Attending WIT’s Accelerate! Conference & Expo is always a highlight for her.
In 2026, Bernard and her husband will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. She is proud of her three wonderful children and nine beautiful grandchildren and loves spending time with them. She enjoys relaxing by the water and has also authored a book.
Bernard is truly grateful for the many opportunities and friendships she has gained over the years as part of the trucking industry.
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- Honoring the Heart of Trucking: Wanda Brooks’ Path of Purpose
- Telling the Story of Trucking: Alicia Conner’s Digital Impact
- How Ericka Norfleet Found Freedom Behind the Wheel
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