Theresa Contreras has made a name for herself in the world of off-road automotive design, turning her passion for customization and adventure into BAJA FORGED—a brand that symbolizes innovation, individuality, and exploration. As the co-founder, lead designer, and builder, Theresa has transformed BAJA FORGED into a renowned leader in custom off-road vehicles, with her creations inspiring a growing community of enthusiasts who seek both performance and personal expression.
Custom Vehicles: A Catalyst for Life-Changing Adventures
Theresa’s belief in the transformative power of custom vehicles runs deep. “Customizing your vehicle and using it to take you on adventures will change your life; it changed mine,” she explains. For Theresa, vehicles are much more than just a means of transportation—they’re an extension of the driver’s personality and a tool for self-discovery. Her builds empower individuals to explore new paths, embrace challenges, and find adventure in the world around them.
BAJA FORGED’s motto, “Signature builds & off-road products built to forge your own path,” encapsulates Theresa’s vision. Each build is designed to reflect the unique tastes and aspirations of its owner, combining aesthetic appeal with high performance to create machines that are ready for any adventure.
The Genesis of BAJA FORGED
BAJA FORGED was founded out of Theresa’s desire to innovate in the automotive industry by designing off-road products and custom vehicle builds that break the mold. Specializing in Ford Broncos and other off-road machines, the company has become known for transforming everyday vehicles into rugged, high-performance creations that make a bold visual statement while withstanding the toughest terrains.
Theresa’s path to success began in her family’s business, LGE-CTS Motorsports, where she and her sister were raised in a world of automotive creativity. After a stint studying Graphic Design at Cal Poly Pomona, Theresa returned to the industry, eager to leave her mark. Her early exposure to custom vehicles and her passion for design led to the creation of BAJA FORGED, where she combines both functionality and aesthetics in her signature builds.
Challenges and Triumphs in a Male-Dominated Field
In the early days of her career, Theresa often found her designs to be ahead of their time. As a result, she faced resistance from those who didn’t understand or accept her vision. Yet she persevered, staying true to her ideas and pushing forward despite the obstacles. Over time, her innovative concepts gained recognition, earning awards at industry events like SEMA and solidifying her place in the automotive world.
“If I had let the initial naysayers hold us back, we wouldn’t be here today,” Theresa reflects. Her resilience in the face of doubt has been a driving force behind BAJA FORGED’s success and a testament to her unwavering belief in her designs.
Breaking Boundaries as a Woman in the Automotive Industry
Theresa has made a lasting impact not only through her designs but also as a trailblazer for women in a male-dominated industry. However, she doesn’t focus on the challenges of being a female in this space. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of striving for excellence. “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 success serves as an inspiration to others—both men and women—who are looking to break stereotypes and pursue their passions.
A Career Celebrated by Numerous Awards
Theresa’s work has been recognized through an impressive list of awards, highlighting her creativity, dedication, and impact on the automotive industry. Some of her notable achievements include:
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
Theresa’s vehicles have appeared at major automotive shows, and her client list includes big names like Jay Leno, Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, and Tanner Foust of Top GearTM. Her ability to push boundaries and create visually stunning, high-performance vehicles has earned her widespread recognition in the industry.
Looking to the Future: Forging New Paths
Theresa Contreras and BAJA FORGED are paving the way for a future where custom vehicles are more than just transportation—they are a means of self-expression, adventure, and empowerment. Through her work, Theresa continues to inspire others to embrace their individuality and explore the world in ways they never thought possible.
As BAJA FORGED grows, Theresa remains committed to pushing the boundaries of design and innovation, creating vehicles that empower people to forge their own paths.
Published by: Khy Talara
