By: Joshua Finley

In the ever-evolving world of automotive design, Theresa Contreras stands out as a force of innovation and creativity. As the co-founder, lead designer, builder, and racer at BAJA FORGED, she has crafted a brand that embodies her passion for off-road vehicles, adventure, and customization. With every project, Theresa not only designs extraordinary vehicles but also inspires individuals to push the boundaries of their journeys, embracing the unknown with a vehicle designed to tackle any terrain.

The Transformative Power of Customization: Theresa’s Personal Journey

For Theresa, customizing a vehicle is more than just altering its appearance—it’s about changing lives. “Customizing your vehicle and using it to take you on adventures will change your life; it changed mine,” she shares, reflecting on her personal journey. At BAJA FORGED, the philosophy is simple: each vehicle becomes a reflection of its owner’s personality and their desire to explore. The company’s tagline, “Signature builds & off-road products built to forge your own path,” perfectly captures their mission of encouraging people to discover themselves through their vehicles and the adventures they embark on.

Theresa’s commitment to bespoke builds means that each off-road vehicle crafted by BAJA FORGED is more than just functional; it’s designed to be an extension of the driver’s spirit. These rugged machines, especially their renowned Ford Broncos, blend functionality, aesthetics, and high performance, giving customers the tools they need to break free from the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.

Growing Up in the Automotive World: The Early Roots of BAJA FORGED

Theresa’s passion for automobiles was ignited during her childhood, growing up in her family’s shop, LGE-CTS Motorsports. Surrounded by vehicles from an early age, she spent her time sanding panels, learning from experienced mechanics, and sweeping the shop floors. This hands-on experience, combined with her family’s strong work ethic, set the foundation for her future in the industry.

After taking time to study Graphic Design at Cal Poly Pomona, Theresa returned to the automotive world with a fresh perspective. Her blend of technical expertise and artistic vision led her to challenge conventions in the male-dominated industry. Her work at BAJA FORGED showcases a perfect balance of innovation and practicality, pushing the limits of what off-road vehicles can achieve while maintaining their visual appeal.

Breaking Barriers and Defying Expectations: Theresa’s Creative Vision

One of the defining aspects of Theresa’s career is her ability to stay true to her creative vision, even when it wasn’t readily accepted by the industry. Her designs, often ahead of their time, faced skepticism from those who were accustomed to the traditional approach to off-road vehicle builds. However, she remained undeterred by the naysayers. “If I had let the initial naysayers hold us back, we wouldn’t be here today,” she remarks, looking back on her journey.

Theresa’s perseverance paid off, and her groundbreaking designs eventually earned her industry recognition and awards. Her unique approach to automotive customization has turned BAJA FORGED into a brand that enthusiasts and adventurers alike seek out for bold, creative, and performance-driven vehicles.

Accolades and Industry Recognition

Theresa’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. Over the years, she has received numerous awards, including the prestigious “She is SEMA – Woman of the Year” honor in 2021. Her custom vehicle builds have graced the stages of renowned automotive shows like SEMA, where her designs have earned accolades for their ingenuity and craftsmanship. Theresa has also built vehicles for high-profile clients, including Jay Leno and Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, solidifying her reputation as a top-tier designer in the automotive industry.

Driving the Future of Off-Road Exploration

Through her work with BAJA FORGED, Theresa Contreras is more than just a designer—she’s a visionary shaping the future of off-road exploration. Each vehicle she creates is a testament to the power of staying true to one’s passion and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Theresa’s story and the vehicles she designs serve as an inspiration to those who dare to dream big and forge their own paths, both on the road and in life.

Published by: Nelly Chavez