By: Joshua Finley
Theresa Contreras is not just a designer; she’s a visionary who has taken the off-road automotive world by storm. As the co-founder and lead designer at BAJA FORGED, she has redefined what it means to build custom off-road vehicles, seamlessly blending aesthetics with rugged performance. For Theresa, vehicle customization goes beyond just creating something beautiful—it’s about creating something that empowers, inspires, and transforms. Her belief that “customizing your vehicle and using it to take you on adventures will change your life” is at the core of every build that comes out of BAJA FORGED. These are not just machines; they are extensions of their owners, designed to take them on adventures that will shape and define their experiences.
Theresa’s journey into this world began in her parent’s garage at LGE-CTS Motorsports, where she grew up surrounded by creativity and innovation. That environment cultivated a deep love for design, but it wasn’t until after a brief stint studying graphic design that she found her true calling back in the automotive world. With a fresh perspective, Theresa set out to push boundaries, creating designs that were often ahead of their time. Early on, she encountered resistance. Her ideas were bold, and not everyone in the male-dominated industry was ready to embrace them. But Theresa never wavered. She knew that staying true to her vision was the only way forward.
Her designs for BAJA FORGED quickly caught the attention of industry leaders, particularly her signature Ford Bronco builds, which combined sleek aesthetics with off-road grit. These vehicles weren’t just showpieces—they were engineered to handle the toughest terrains while offering a visual statement. Theresa’s talent for blending form and function led to BAJA FORGED reputation as a leader in off-road customization. It wasn’t long before her work was being showcased at major automotive events, earning accolades and attracting high-profile clients.
Awards and Recognition
Theresa’s work has earned her numerous awards, including peak honors at SEMA and the prestigious “Hero Award” from the Sturgis Hall of Fame. Her innovative designs have been featured in automotive publications, and her custom vehicles have been built for celebrity clients like Jay Leno and Ford Motor Company. With each new project, Theresa continues to challenge the status quo, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of off-road customization.
Theresa Contreras is more than just a designer—she is a trailblazer in the off-road vehicle industry, constantly redefining the boundaries of what’s possible in automotive customization. Her work at BAJA FORGED goes beyond building machines; she creates vehicles that embody the spirit of adventure and individuality. With each custom build, Theresa empowers her clients to venture into new territories, both physically and personally, unlocking experiences that transform their perspectives and lives.
Her innovative approach to design is rooted in a deep belief that vehicles are more than tools for transportation; they are platforms for self-expression and adventure. Theresa’s relentless pursuit of innovation has led her to combine advanced technology with rugged performance, crafting vehicles that perform in extreme conditions while also making bold, personal statements.
Theresa’s influence reaches far beyond the garage. She is a pioneer, setting new standards for what off-road vehicles can be, not just in terms of performance but also in how they empower their owners to embrace life’s adventures. Her work serves as a testament to the idea that when passion, creativity, and vision come together, there are no limits to what can be achieved.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
