Theresa Contreras is a trailblazer in the world of custom off-road vehicles. As co-founder and lead designer at BAJA FORGED, she has built a brand that is synonymous with adventure, individuality, and empowerment. Theresa’s belief that “customizing your vehicle and using it to take you on adventures will change your life” is at the core of everything she does. At BAJA FORGED, vehicles aren’t just machines—they are tools for exploration, built to inspire their owners to forge their own paths and push beyond their limits.
Theresa’s love for design began at a young age, growing up in her parent’s shop, LGE-CTS Motorsports. Surrounded by creativity and innovation, she developed a passion for customizing vehicles, but it wasn’t until after studying graphic design that she realized her true calling lay in the automotive world. Returning to her roots, she began crafting bold, forward-thinking designs that challenged the status quo. It wasn’t always easy. The male-dominated industry wasn’t immediately receptive to her ideas, but Theresa never wavered. She knew that staying true to her vision was the key to success.
Her perseverance paid off. BAJA FORGED quickly became known for its innovative builds, particularly its custom Ford Broncos. These vehicles were designed to handle the toughest off-road conditions while making a bold visual statement. Theresa’s approach to customization was different—she wasn’t just building vehicles; she was creating experiences. Her builds were designed to inspire their owners to explore new places and take on new challenges.
Theresa’s influence reaches far beyond the designs she creates at BAJA FORGED. Her dedication to pushing the boundaries of off-road customization has earned her a reputation as a visionary in the industry. She has consistently demonstrated that a vehicle can be more than just a machine; it can be an expression of individuality and a gateway to adventure. By staying true to her bold and forward-thinking vision, Theresa has set a new standard for what off-road vehicles can achieve, both in terms of performance and personal connection.
Her commitment to innovation has resonated with a wide audience, from everyday enthusiasts to high-profile clients. Each vehicle that comes out of BAJA FORGED is a reflection of her belief in creating something unique and purposeful. Whether it’s a custom Ford Bronco or another off-road build, Theresa’s designs encourage their owners to embrace the unknown and embark on journeys that test their limits. Through her work, she has redefined off-road customization, making it not just about functionality, but about inspiring others to explore new horizons.
Awards and Recognition
Theresa’s groundbreaking work has earned her multiple awards, including top honors at SEMA and the prestigious “Hero Award” from the Sturgis Hall of Fame. Her custom vehicles have been featured in leading automotive events, and she has worked with high-profile clients, including Ford Motor Company and Jay Leno. As she continues to innovate and push boundaries, Theresa’s work at BAJA FORGED remains at the forefront of the off-road customization world.
Theresa Contreras is more than a designer—she’s a visionary who is shaping the future of off-road customization. Through her work at BAJA FORGED, she has redefined what it means to create a custom vehicle, blending performance with personality to inspire adventure and empowerment. Her designs are more than just vehicles—they are tools for exploration, encouraging others to go further, push harder, and discover the adventure that awaits.
Published By: Aize Perez
