In the fast-paced world of automotive design, Theresa Contreras is a name that sparks admiration. As co-founder, lead designer, builder, and racer at BAJA FORGED, she has pioneered a brand that redefines off-road vehicles and products. Her story reflects the power of personalization and staying authentic to one’s vision.
The Journey of Customization and Adventure
“Customizing your vehicle and using it to take you on adventures will change your life; it changed mine,” says Theresa. Vehicles, to her, are not just machines but extensions of one’s identity. They empower, inspire, and enable new explorations. With BAJA FORGED, Theresa is sharing that experience, helping others design and build vehicles that blend aesthetics and performance while taking them on thrilling journeys. The company’s motto, “Signature builds & off-road products built to forge your own path,” is more than a tagline—it’s an invitation to find your true self through adventure.
How BAJA FORGED Came to Be
Theresa’s passion for creating unique automotive designs shaped BAJA FORGED’s foundation. Focusing on off-road products and custom builds, especially for Ford Broncos, her company has transformed regular vehicles into adventure-ready beasts. These bespoke designs fuse style, durability, and functionality, empowering their owners to embrace rugged terrains with confidence.
Raised in her family’s LGE-CTS Motorsports shop, Theresa’s journey into the automotive world began as a child. She grew up sanding vehicle panels and learning the trade alongside her sister. After taking time off to pursue a degree in Graphic Design at Cal Poly Pomona, she returned to her roots with renewed purpose—ready to leave her mark in the male-dominated industry.
Staying True to Vision Despite Challenges
Theresa’s designs were often ahead of their time, which led to skepticism and resistance in the early days. But she refused to back down. “If I had let the initial naysayers hold us back, we wouldn’t be here today,” she says. Her designs eventually earned critical acclaim at events like SEMA, proving that staying true to her vision was the right decision. The demand for her custom products grew, leading to the creation of BAJA FORGED.
Breaking Boundaries and Embracing Individuality
One of Theresa’s key philosophies is to embrace one’s individuality, even when it means breaking stereotypes. She’s never let being a woman in a male-dominated field limit her, focusing instead on how she can excel in her craft and help others find their strengths too. Her commitment to pushing limits has set her apart in the industry, earning her numerous accolades and respect.
Theresa’s Accomplishments and Awards
Theresa’s career is decorated with achievements, including the “She is SEMA – Woman of the Year” award in 2021 and several Ford Design Awards. These accolades speak to her innovation, hard work, and passion, proving she’s not only an industry leader but an inspiring figure for others.
Forging Ahead
Theresa Contreras and BAJA FORGED are redefining the future of off-road vehicles, showing what’s possible when passion meets purpose. Her work is a symbol of empowerment and adventure, inviting others to forge their own paths. Theresa’s journey reminds us all that when we stay true to ourselves, we can create extraordinary things.
Published by: Martin De Juan
