MAD Customs
The Team
Who We Are
Mark Denlinger
President | Owner
Mark Denlinger, the visionary founder of MAD Customs, has devoted over 25 years of his life to honing his craft in the vibrant world of the hot rod industry. His fascination for hot rods began at a young age, deeply inspired by his father’s 1955 Chevy, which sparked a lifelong passion for classic cars. As a young man, Mark was given a significant opportunity to work at a local automotive shop, where he was first introduced to the intricacies of the automotive industry. Recognizing his passion for hot rods, Mark made the decision to enroll in vocational courses. This investment in his skills allowed him to become even more proficient in his craft. After graduating, Mark secured a position at a local shop, dedicating the next 18 years of his career to this role. During his tenure, he continually strived to learn new techniques and improve his expertise. Despite his success, Mark felt a growing desire to break free from the constraints of working for someone else and yearned to establish his own business where he could fully express his creative vision. With his family’s support, Mark was able to turn his aspirations into reality in 2020 when he founded MAD Customs. The name of the business holds special significance, as it cleverly incorporates the initials of its founder—M.A.D.—reflecting both his personal connection to the brand and his commitment to creating extraordinary custom vehicles.
Bonnie Denlinger
Vice President | Chief Financial Officer
Meet Bonnie Denlinger, the driving force behind MAD Customs and co-founder of this acclaimed business. With a lifelong passion for cars and a solid background in accounting and client services, Bonnie has seamlessly blended her skills into the automotive world. Encouraging her husband Mark to pursue his dream of opening a custom shop, she has played a pivotal role in turning that vision into reality. As vice president, Bonnie oversees nearly every aspect of the company, ensuring that MAD Customs remains a leader in the industry.
Mark Alexander
Technician | Wiring Specialist
Mark Alexander Jr. is an experienced mechanic with a strong focus on custom plumbing, wiring, and detailed fabrication. His passion for automobiles started early, working alongside his uncle on classic Pontiacs—a hands-on introduction that sparked a lifelong interest.
After studying automotive basics in high school, Mark continued his education at Universal Technical Institute, completing a full range of automotive and Hot Rod courses. He spent seven years in the general repair industry before moving into hot rod and restoration work, where he has spent the past twelve years building his expertise.
Mark is committed to delivering work that stands out for its fit, finish, and functionality. His precision and attention to detail are reflected in every project he completes.
Ryan Mest
Fabricator
Ryan Mest is an incredibly talented fabricator, mechanic, and woodworker at MAD Customs, boasting over 26 years of experience. He is dedicated to helping customers with everything from customizing and repairs to upgrading their cars and trucks. With his specialization in chassis and drivetrain fabrication, along with specialty mechanical work, Ryan has truly become the go-to expert for anyone eager to enhance their ride. He is passionate about working closely with clients to turn their automotive dreams into exciting realities. With his keen eye for detail and a strong commitment to quality craftsmanship, Ryan is ready to take your vehicle to new heights and bring your unique vision to life.
Giani Ely
Fabricator
Giani Ely is the young gun of the MAD Customs team, bringing fresh energy, dedication, and a passion for craftsmanship to every project. His passion for cars started at a young age, growing up around his grandfather’s fully restored C3 Corvette and his mother’s Mustang. His grandfather taught him everything from painting and bodywork to mechanical skills, and when there was something he didn’t know, Giani taught himself. As he got older, he began buying and selling just about anything he could find with a motor, further developing his passion for working on vehicles. His drive to learn and work with his hands led him to BCTC, where he studied welding in high school. Today, Giani specializes in welding, custom fabrication, and mechanical work, enjoying the challenge of figuring out how to make something work properly while making sure it looks right. One of the most rewarding parts of the job for him is taking a vehicle that has been neglected for years and watching it transform into something special. With his willingness to learn, attention to detail, and drive to take on new challenges, Giani represents the next generation of craftsmen at MAD Customs.
Dylan Emore
Mechanic
Dylan Emore has had a lifelong passion for anything with wheels and an engine. He grew up helping his grandfather maintain and repair a range of antique vehicles—mostly Oldsmobiles, but plenty of others as well. From a young age, he dreamed of building safe, reliable, high-quality hot rods for people to enjoy. After taking automotive courses in high school, Dylan went on to graduate from Universal Technical Institute’s General Automotive and NASCAR programs. He spent seven years working in both auto and diesel repair before transitioning into the hot rod and restoration field, where he has spent the last two years building and repairing custom vehicles.
Dylan’s dedication to quality, safety, and craftsmanship shows in every project he takes on.
Roger Baum
Fabricator
Roger Baum is the newest addition to the MAD Customs team, bringing more than 25 years of experience, creativity, and a lifelong passion for custom vehicles. Growing up around muscle cars and hot rods, Roger developed an appreciation for horsepower at a young age while also discovering a natural talent for art. He soon began seeing cars and motorcycles as a form of artistic expression, sparking a lifelong pursuit of building and creating custom vehicles. Roger began developing his skills in bodywork and paint more than 25 years ago at a neighborhood body shop, eventually reaching a high level of craftsmanship in custom paint and bodywork. In 2004, he opened his own airbrush and pinstriping shop, but eventually realized that his passion was in the hands-on work rather than running a business. He later found an opportunity to practice coachbuilding at a restoration shop specializing in prewar-era vehicles, where he developed a natural ability and passion for metal shaping and fabrication. After six years of continuing to refine his craft, Roger sought an opportunity to work on high-quality builds that would challenge him and push his skills further. That search led him to MAD Customs, where he brings his experience, artistic eye, and exceptional craftsmanship to every project.
Apply Today
MAD Customs is your premier destination for all things Hot Rod! As a family-owned and operated shop founded in 2020, we are dedicated to embracing the latest advancements in technology to deliver exceptional results. Our commitment to quality, attention to detail, and excellence drives our continuous growth, and we’re always on the lookout for talented artists to join our team. Experience the passion and craftsmanship that sets MAD Customs apart!