Meet Aaron Kaufman, the master fabricator and hot rodder who rose to fame on the hit Discovery reality series Fast N’ Loud back in 2012. As one of the original members of Gas Monkey Garage, Aaron’s skilled hands and passion for all things automotive helped catapult the shop to stardom alongside the larger-than-life personality of Richard Rawlings.
Update: It’s July 2023, and we’re here to bring you the latest scoop on what Aaron Kaufman, your favorite fabricator from Gas Monkey Garage, has been up to lately. Get ready for an inside look at his impressive car collection and an exciting new project that’s in the works and could hit the streets sooner than you think!
After departing from the show in 2017 due to personal differences with Rawlings, Kaufman embarked on an exciting new venture by establishing Arclight Fab, a boutique Restomod shop nestled in Dallas, Texas. Specializing in the restoration and customization of 1957-1979 Ford F-100 trucks, Arclight Fab has become synonymous with excellence in preserving the legacy of this quintessential American pickup icon.
Taking the helm as both boss and star, Kaufman ventured into the world of reality television once again with the Discovery series Shifting Gears, showcasing his expertise and leadership in the automotive realm.
Moreover, fueled by fan curiosity and speculation, whispers of a new project have emerged, hinting at Kaufman’s involvement in a venture centered around America’s legendary Route 66. As enthusiasts eagerly await further details, anticipation mounts for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in Kaufman’s storied career. Stay tuned, as we eagerly await Kaufman’s return to our screens, eager to witness the next chapter in his remarkable journey.
How Did Aaron Kaufman ‘The Bearded Wonder’ Get Famous?
Meet the ingenious mechanic whose journey to stardom began with a groundbreaking appearance on the hit TV series, Fast N’ Loud. This reality-style show, broadcasted on Discovery Channel, showcased the adventures of Richard Rawlings and his crew hailing from the heart of Dallas, Texas. At the core of the series was Richard’s quest to unearth tired, rusted relics of automobiles, with the team, spearheaded by the lead mechanic Aaron, tasked with the daunting challenge of restoring and often customizing these vehicles to their former glory. The culmination of their efforts would typically result in Richard selling the revamped cars for a handsome profit.
For those who were captivated by Aaron’s expertise as he fearlessly tackled rusty wrecks and transformed them into stunning works of automotive art, the question inevitably arises: Where is Aaron Kaufman now?
Why Did Aaron Kaufman Leave The Gas Monkey Garage?
In 2018, Aaron made the difficult decision to depart from both the show and Gas Monkey Garage, leaving many devoted viewers disheartened and curious about the reasons behind his departure. Speculation ran rampant as fans sought to unravel the mystery surrounding his exit and uncover his current whereabouts.
In an illuminating interview with Art Of Gears, Aaron shed light on the factors that led to his departure from both the show and the garage. He candidly revealed that his decision was driven by a desire to pursue his passion for building cars on a grander scale, beyond the confines of television’s demands for smaller-scale projects.
Moreover, Aaron alluded to the presence of personal and professional challenges, hinting at growing tensions and differences of opinion that ultimately prompted him to reevaluate his path. Confronted with the proverbial fork in the road, Aaron made the bold choice to chart a new course, guided by his unwavering dedication to his craft and the pursuit of creative fulfillment.
For devoted fans of the show, Aaron’s departure from Gas Monkey Garage is a logical step in his pursuit of creative freedom and fulfillment. In the realm of television production, stringent time constraints often dictate the pace of builds, leaving little room for the intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail required for truly unique and groundbreaking projects. Aaron’s relentless work ethic and dedication to his craft saw him investing over 110 hours into certain builds, a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence.
Driven by a desire to carve his path and explore his passion for automotive craftsmanship on his terms, Aaron set his sights on establishing his shop. With Arclight Fab, he assembled a team of like-minded mechanics, embarking on a journey to bring his visionary creations to life.
Despite the creative differences that arose towards the end of their collaboration, Aaron’s relationship with Richard Rawlings remains a topic of speculation among fans. However, Aaron has been unequivocal in stating that any disagreements were purely professional and did not sour his relationship with Rawlings. Reports suggest that the bond between the two remains intact, underscoring a friendship forged through shared experiences and mutual respect.
Everything You Need To Know About Kaufman’s Arclight Fabrications
Arclight Fabrications made its grand debut to the public in 2017, heralding a new chapter in Aaron Kaufman’s illustrious career. From its inception, Kaufman articulated a clear vision for his shop, emphasizing a dedication to crafting bespoke creations that push the boundaries of automotive innovation.
True to his vision, Arclight Fab specializes in undertaking ambitious projects that are as bold as they are intricate, eschewing the constraints of time in favor of meticulous craftsmanship and unparalleled quality. At the heart of their portfolio lies a deep appreciation for the vintage Ford F-series, with each project meticulously curated to showcase the timeless elegance and rugged allure of these iconic vehicles.
While the shop has since relocated its premises, Arclight Fab continues to thrive in its new home in the vibrant city of Dallas, Texas. Here, amidst the hum of machinery and the scent of welding torches, Aaron and his team continue to breathe life into their visionary creations, each one a testament to their unwavering passion for the craft and their commitment to excellence.
What Happened To Shifting Gears With Aaron Kaufman?
After launching Arclight Fabrication, Aaron Kaufman showcased his mechanical prowess in the TV series “Shifting Gears With Aaron Kaufman.” Alongside a skilled team of builders, they focused on maximizing performance in every build. The show garnered positive reviews over two seasons.
Subsequently, Kaufman embarked on “Aaron Needs A Job” in 2019, where he tackled unfamiliar tasks despite his expertise in car building. While initially well-received, the show faced criticism for its predictable format and script.
Aaron Kaufman’s Love For The Pikes Peak Hill Climb
Beyond his endeavors at Arclight, Aaron Kaufman finds exhilaration in the racing world, notably participating in the esteemed Pikes Peak hill climb. His inaugural experience with this legendary event occurred in 2013/14 while still affiliated with Gas Monkey Garage, where he navigated a meticulously crafted 1963 Ford Falcon through the challenging terrain.
Kaufman’s passion for racing extends beyond Pikes Peak, as he has actively competed in various racing events showcased on camera across his television ventures. Notably, he ventured into the Stadium Super Trucks series, demonstrating his versatility and skill on the track.
In a triumphant return to the pinnacle of hill climb racing in 2022, Kaufman took on the daunting challenge of Pikes Peak once more, this time behind the wheel of a formidable 1949 Ford F1 affectionately known as Old Smokey. His unwavering commitment to the sport has seen him assume the role of a brand ambassador for MagnaFlow, a renowned exhaust systems specialist.
Aaron Kaufman’s Unique Car Collection And Net Worth
Aaron Kaufman’s journey from his humble beginnings with a Jeep Cherokee at sixteen to his current status as a revered figure in the automotive world reflects a remarkable evolution. Behind the wheel of a 1968 short-bed Ford F-100, he took his first steps into the realm of automotive passion, setting the stage for a lifelong love affair with cars.
Fast forward to 2023, and Kaufman’s car collection boasts an impressive array of unique builds, each a testament to his boundless creativity and expertise. His daily driver, a modified 2004 Ford F-150, serves as a canvas for ongoing modifications, a reflection of Kaufman’s relentless pursuit of automotive perfection. Few may be aware that Kaufman lent his expertise to the construction of a monstrous 1200-hp twin-turbo Ferrari F12, marking a departure from his signature style and venturing into the realm of modern supercars.
While Kaufman is best known for his on-screen appearances on shows like Fast N’ Loud, Aaron Needs A Job, and Shifting Gears With Aaron Kaufman, his role extends beyond the camera lens. As a producer of his show and a valued collaborator with tuners like Lyfe Motorsport and Sierra Cars, Kaufman’s influence extends far beyond the workshop floor.
With a net worth of $8 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth, Kaufman’s impact on the automotive industry is undeniable. His partnership with Sierra Cars, where he tested a single-seat, center-cockpit recreational vehicle at Pikes Peak, underscores his enduring commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation and performance.
