By: Joshua Finley
In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive design, one figure stands out for her relentless drive, creativity, and devotion to excellence: Theresa Contreras. As the co-founder, lead designer, and racer at BAJA FORGED, she has revolutionized the way off-road vehicles are crafted, turning them into powerful symbols of adventure, individuality, and empowerment. Theresa’s story is one of bold vision, breaking barriers, and staying true to her passion.
Customization as a Vehicle for Life-Altering Adventures
“Customizing your vehicle and using it to take you on adventures will change your life; it changed mine,” Theresa says, reflecting on her journey. She believes that vehicles are more than just machines; they are deeply connected to our identities and the paths we take. Through BAJA FORGED, she brings this philosophy to life, helping others create vehicles that empower them to explore new adventures and forge their own unique paths. The company’s motto, “Signature builds & off-road products built to forge your own path,” reflects this sentiment, encouraging people to discover new dimensions of themselves through their vehicles.
The BAJA FORGED Origin: Blending Style with Rugged Performance
BAJA FORGED was born out of Theresa’s passion for creating off-road products and signature vehicle builds, especially focused on Ford Broncos. Each vehicle crafted by BAJA FORGED is a blend of style, capability, and rugged performance, engineered to withstand the harshest conditions while looking stunning on any terrain. Theresa’s dedication to customization allows her clients to experience both the beauty and functionality of a vehicle designed specifically for their adventurous spirit.
Her love for automotive work traces back to her family’s shop, LGE-CTS Motorsports, where she grew up immersed in the world of cars. From an early age, she learned the ins and outs of the industry, working alongside her sister, sanding panels and doing homework among car parts. After briefly stepping away to pursue Graphic Design at Cal Poly Pomona, she returned with a renewed passion, ready to make her mark in the automotive world.
Overcoming Doubts: Staying Committed to Her Vision
Theresa’s journey wasn’t always easy. Early on, her forward-thinking designs were often met with skepticism, as they were ahead of their time. But Theresa stayed committed to her vision, knowing that the power of creativity often lies in its ability to challenge the status quo. Her perseverance paid off, as her designs began to receive critical acclaim, leading to numerous awards at prestigious shows like SEMA. As the demand for her work grew, she launched BAJA FORGED, turning her vision into a thriving business. “If I had let the initial naysayers hold us back, we wouldn’t be here today,” she reflects, highlighting the importance of belief in oneself.
Breaking Boundaries and Defying Expectations
Theresa has never allowed herself to be limited by stereotypes. “I don’t think about being a female in a male-dominated industry; I think about how I can be the best at what I do and how that translates into helping others find their best too,” she says. Her approach to the automotive industry is one of confidence and capability, driving her to innovate continually. Theresa’s work not only challenges traditional industry norms but also inspires others to push past limitations and embrace their individuality.
Honoring a Career of Distinction: Awards and Achievements
Theresa Contreras’ exceptional work has earned her numerous awards, recognizing her as a trailblazer in automotive design:
2024 – “Female Builder” One Moto Show
2024 – 2017 Vibrance Top Gun Painter – PPG Industries
2023 – “Hero Award” Sturgis Hall of Fame
2022 – SBN All Female Build Paint Lead – SEMA
2021 – “She is SEMA – Woman of the Year – SBN/SEMA
2021 – Ford Design award – SEMA Show
2020 – PPG Ad Campaign – PPG Industries
2019 – Ford Design award – SEMA Show
2018 – Ford Design award – SEMA Show
2018 – YEN Vanguard award winner – SEMA
2017 – Ford Design award – SEMA Show
2017 – International Motorcycle Show – Winner – Modified Class
2012 – SBN All Female Build Paint Lead – SEMA
Her custom vehicles have been featured at major automotive events, graced the covers of magazines, and caught the attention of notable figures like Jay Leno, Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, and Tanner Foust of Top GearTM, with whom she collaborated on custom builds.
Forging a Legacy of Innovation and Inspiration
Theresa Contreras and BAJA FORGED continue to redefine what it means to create bespoke off-road vehicles that embody both performance and personal expression. Through her work, Theresa not only creates vehicles but also helps people discover their sense of adventure and embrace their individuality. Her story serves as a reminder that when passion, creativity, and authenticity come together, the possibilities are limitless.
Theresa’s journey is far from over, and as she continues to push boundaries, she leaves behind a legacy of innovation and inspiration for future generations.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
