In the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive industry, Theresa Contreras stands out as a game-changer. As co-founder and lead designer of BAJA FORGED, she has revolutionized the off-road experience, creating bespoke vehicles that combine function, form, and adventure. Theresa’s journey to becoming a key figure in the world of custom off-road vehicles is a story of passion, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her craft.
Adventure Meets Innovation: Theresa’s Vision for BAJA FORGED
Theresa’s philosophy is simple: adventure and customization are deeply intertwined. “Customizing your vehicle and using it to take you on adventures will change your life; it changed mine,” she says, reflecting on how her own experiences have shaped her work. For her, a vehicle is more than just a mode of transport—it’s a reflection of personal identity and a companion in the pursuit of life’s most exciting journeys.
BAJA FORGED embodies this ethos with their tagline, “Signature builds & off-road products built to forge your own path.” Each vehicle that rolls out of its garage is a testament to individuality, crafted to empower its owner to seek new paths and embrace the thrill of exploration.
How BAJA FORGED Came to Be
BAJA FORGED was born from Theresa’s passion for unique automotive designs. With a focus on Ford Broncos, the company specializes in transforming everyday SUVs and trucks into adventure-ready, off-road beasts. These bespoke vehicles are not only visually striking but are engineered to perform in the toughest environments, offering the perfect blend of aesthetic appeal and rugged functionality.
Theresa’s automotive journey began in her family’s shop, LGE-CTS Motorsports. From a young age, she and her sister were involved in the business, sanding vehicle panels and learning the ropes in a male-dominated industry. This early exposure fueled her desire to innovate in a field often resistant to change. After taking time off to study Graphic Design at Cal Poly Pomona, Theresa returned to her roots with a renewed focus and determination to bring her vision to life.
Facing Challenges Head-On
The path to success wasn’t always smooth. Theresa’s ideas were often ahead of their time, and her designs didn’t always receive immediate acceptance. “If I had let the initial naysayers hold us back, we wouldn’t be here today,” she notes. Her perseverance paid off when her designs began receiving widespread recognition at prestigious automotive events like SEMA, where her vehicles won several industry awards.
Theresa’s mindset of pushing boundaries is key to her success. She explains, “I don’t focus on being a female in a male-dominated industry. I focus on being the best at what I do.” Her approach has allowed her to carve out a space for herself and inspire others in the automotive world.
Celebrating Theresa’s Achievements
Theresa’s hard work and innovation have not gone unnoticed. In 2021, she was honored with the “She is SEMA – Woman of the Year” award, solidifying her place as a leader in the industry. Her builds have been showcased at top events and have attracted attention from well-known personalities like Jay Leno, Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, and Top Gear’s Tanner Foust.
Forging a Future of Adventure and Empowerment
Theresa Contreras has proven that authenticity, resilience, and a passion for adventure can lead to groundbreaking success. Through BAJA FORGED, she has empowered others to forge their own paths, transforming the way people see and experience off-road vehicles.
As Theresa continues to push the limits of design and performance, her story serves as an inspiring reminder that true innovation comes from embracing who you are and where you want to go.
Published by: Martin De Juan
