In the competitive automotive world, few names shine as brightly as Theresa Contreras. As the co-founder and lead visionary at BAJA FORGED, she has carved out a niche in the world of custom off-road vehicles, pushing boundaries and inspiring a new generation of automotive enthusiasts. Her journey through innovation and passion serves as a beacon for those daring to follow their own path.
A Journey Fueled by Adventure and Customization
“Customizing your vehicle and using it to take you on adventures will change your life; it changed mine,” shares Theresa. She views vehicles as more than just transportation—they are key players in life’s adventures, offering a gateway to freedom, discovery, and self-expression. Theresa’s personal experience in transforming vehicles into powerful off-road machines has been a driving force behind BAJA FORGED’s mission: to help others forge their own paths through custom builds that combine beauty, strength, and performance.
With each project, BAJA FORGED encourages individuals to embrace their adventurous spirit. The brand’s tagline, “Signature builds & off-road products built to forge your own path,” perfectly captures this vision, inviting clients to experience the world through the lens of adventure.
The Birth of BAJA FORGED: A Passion Turned Reality
BAJA FORGED was born from Theresa’s lifelong passion for design and off-road vehicles. Specializing in custom builds, particularly with Ford Broncos, the company transforms ordinary vehicles into robust, terrain-conquering machines. These builds are much more than modifications—they are personalized expressions of capability and style, crafted to thrive on the toughest off-road trails.
Theresa’s automotive journey began at a young age in her family’s LGE-CTS Motorsports shop. Growing up, she and her sister worked alongside their parents, sanding vehicle panels and immersing themselves in the world of automotive craftsmanship. After taking a break to study Graphic Design at Cal Poly Pomona, Theresa returned to the family business determined to make her own mark. This determination laid the foundation for the creation of BAJA FORGED.
Pushing Through Challenges with Vision
Not everyone understood Theresa’s forward-thinking designs in the beginning. Many doubted her vision and questioned her innovative approach. “If I had let the initial naysayers hold us back, we wouldn’t be here today,” she reflects. Her persistence paid off as her unique designs gained recognition, winning awards at prestigious industry events like SEMA. These accolades validated her commitment to staying true to herself, no matter the obstacles.
Theresa’s philosophy of individuality and authenticity has propelled her career. “I don’t think about being a female in a male-dominated industry; I focus on being the best at what I do,” she explains. Her goal is to help others discover their own strengths and push boundaries, just as she has done.
Recognized Success and Impact
Theresa’s impressive accomplishments have earned her numerous industry accolades, including the 2021 “She is SEMA – Woman of the Year” award. Her work continues to inspire as she breaks barriers in a traditionally male-driven space. Her vehicles, featured at automotive shows, have caught the attention of icons like Jay Leno and Tanner Foust.
Forging a Legacy of Adventure
Theresa Contreras has turned her passion for custom vehicles into a movement, empowering others to explore the world with confidence and individuality. BAJA FORGED is more than a company—it’s a symbol of adventure, freedom, and resilience. Theresa’s legacy reminds us that when we dare to be different, we can forge paths that inspire and uplift others.
Published by: Martin De Juan
