Meet the Team
Meet Braxton: The Heart and Hustle of PMB Performance
Braxton, or “Brax” as we call him, is a force at PMB Performance, pouring his passion and dedication into everything he does. Hailing from Sandy, Utah, Brax has been with us for over a year, and his energy and expertise have already left a big mark on our team. Whether he’s tackling a project or sharing a laugh, Brax brings a spark that makes PMB special.
Braxton’s Story
Since day one, Brax has thrown himself into every task with focus and enthusiasm. His knowledge, kindness, and willingness to guide his teammates make him a go-to guy in the shop. From brainstorming solutions to lending a hand, Brax’s contributions are felt by everyone, and we’re lucky to have him in the PMB crew.
Fun Facts About Brax
- First Car: A 1990 Eagle Talon TSI sparked his love for turbocharged thrills.
- Dream Ride: The iconic 930 Slantnose Turbo steals his heart with its timeless style.
- Current Project: He’s deep into building an Audi S3 with a beefy motor and a big turbo—watch out for this one!
- Favorite PMB Memory: Brax grins when he recalls “jamming with Eric in the shop—those moments are gold.” He adds, “I love that I get to do what I’m passionate about every day. This place is full of good vibes and great memories.”
- Off the Clock: When he’s not at PMB, Brax is likely tinkering on his project car or chasing the next adrenaline rush on the road.
Why We Love Brax
Braxton’s blend of hard work, positivity, and genuine care for his team makes him a true asset. He doesn’t just get the job done—he inspires everyone around him to bring their best. We’re beyond grateful for his time, insight, and the infectious energy he brings to PMB.
Cheers to you, Brax—keep rocking it!
Meet Clark: The Website Tamer, Vanagon Whisperer & Behind-the-Lens Master
Clark Pedersen is the quiet genius who keeps our digital world spinning smoothly at PMB. Hailing from Provo, Utah, and now based in Midvale, he heard the buzz about PMB Performance—our crew of passionate (okay, maybe borderline obsessive) car nuts—and knew he had to join the ride. Clark's got one of the most vital (and under-the-radar) jobs in the shop: taming the wild beast that is our website. He's the guy handling updates, adding fresh content, optimizing every page, and making sure the end-user experience is as slick and enjoyable as a perfectly tuned engine. Without him, you'd probably still be staring at loading screens instead of drooling over restorations.
Clark’s Story
Clark came to PMB because he wanted to work with a team of genuinely passionate people—and yeah, we might lean a little intense (borderline personality disorder types? We'll neither confirm nor deny). His love for adventure vans runs deep: his first car was a VW Vanagon, and once those iconic boxes get in your blood, they're impossible to shake. He restored and sold one about 15 years ago (a decision he now calls his biggest mistake), so his current project is another Vanagon to right that wrong and bring the magic back. One of his favorite PMB memories? Hanging out in the new office, getting verbally roasted by Fabio and Eric—classic shop banter that proves we're all in this together. Each person brings something unique, and the mix just works. (Bonus: Clark snapped most of the stunning photos for this "Meet the Team" feature—his own pic is the rare one he didn't take, but you probably can't spot the difference because Eric's an amazing shutterbug too. LOL)
Fun Facts About Clark
- First Car: A classic VW Vanagon. Those air-cooled legends hooked him young, and the passion has never faded.
- Dream Car(s): The timeless classic MGB (pre-rubber bumpers, of course—those chrome beauties before the big ugly ones ruined the lines), a Volvo V70R for that turbo wagon thrill, and—take a wild guess—another Syncro Vanagon (the legendary 4WD version for the uninitiated).
- Current Project: Reviving the Vanagon dream with a new build to replace the one he let go all those years ago—no regrets... except the one big one.
- Favorite PMB Memory: The epic verbal abuse sessions in the new office courtesy of Fabio and Eric—proof that great teams thrive on good-natured roasting and mutual respect.
- Off the Clock: Clark loves exploring Utah's jaw-dropping landscapes—who wouldn't? He's incredibly talented behind the lens, capturing the beauty of our state (and most of our team photos). Travel, scenery, and photography keep him recharged.
Why We Love Clark
Clark brings that perfect blend of technical wizardry, creative eye, and understated cool to PMB. He quietly makes our online presence shine brighter than ever, turning our website into something users actually love navigating. His Vanagon devotion fits right in with our classic-car obsession, and his photography skills elevate everything we do (including making the rest of us look good). He's the steady, reliable force who balances the shop's wild energy with calm expertise. We're super happy to have him on the team—leveling up our digital game one update at a time.
Here’s to Clark—keep taming that website beast, keep chasing those Vanagon dreams, keep capturing Utah's magic through your lens, and keep surviving the office roasts like a champ!
Meet Nyle: Brakewerks Manager at PMB Performance
Nyle, hailing from Taylorsville, UT, has been a vital part of the PMB Performance family since October 2021. Lately, he’s been crushing it as our Brakewerks Manager, and we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on his talent and dedication. Nyle’s skill and heart make him a true asset to our shop.
Nyle’s Story
From the moment he joined PMB, Nyle has brought a steady hand and a eager spirit to every project. His recent work on Brakewerks showcases his knack for precision and his drive to deliver top-notch results. Whether he’s fine-tuning brakes or diving into a unique build, Nyle’s commitment to quality is unmistakable, and we’re proud to call him one of our own.
Fun Facts About Nyle:
- First Car: A trusty 1997 5-Speed Nissan Pathfinder that sparked his automotive journey.
- Dream Ride: The sleek 1992 Toyota MR2 Turbo gets his pulse racing with its classic style.
- Current Project: He’s pouring love into restoring a 1975 Mercedes-Benz 240D, bringing vintage vibes back to life.
- Favorite PMB Memory: Nyle beams when he recalls “working on Matt Plasket’s 911—it was an honor to get it running so he and his family could enjoy it.” Bonus? It was his first time driving a Porsche, and he was hooked!
- Off the Clock: When he’s not in the shop, Nyle’s likely tinkering on his Mercedes or soaking up the thrill of a well-crafted car.
Why We Love Nyle
Nyle’s blend of skill, humility, and genuine care for his work makes him a standout. He doesn’t just build brakes—he builds trust and memories for our customers. His choice to make PMB his home means the world to us, and we’re excited to see where his talent takes him next.
Here’s to you, Nyle—thanks for being part of the PMB family!
Meet Fabio: The Maestro of PMB Performance
Fabio, our General Manager, is a cornerstone of PMB Performance, leading with passion and precision. Originally from São Paulo, Brazil, Fabio has been with us for a couple of years, and his dedication to the craft has made him a standout. We’re kicking off our employee spotlight series with him because, well, he’s just that awesome!
Fabio’s Story
Since joining PMB, Fabio has brought his infectious enthusiasm and sharp skills to the Brakewerks team. His curiosity about the Porsche world and relentless drive to learn have elevated every project he touches. Loyal, motivated, and always ready to dive into a challenge, Fabio’s leadership keeps our shop humming and our standards high.
Fun Facts About Fabio:
- First Car: A sleek 2003 Nissan 350Z that set the stage for his automotive obsession.
- Dream Ride: The gritty, classic 1971 Ford Maverick steals his heart with its retro charm.
- Current Project: He’s pouring his soul into restoring a 1974 Porsche 914—and okay, we might be a little biased, but it’s our favorite of his rides!
- Favorite PMB Memory: Fabio lights up when he talks about the 2023 LA LIT weekend, a whirlwind of cars, community, and unforgettable vibes.
- Off the Clock: When he’s not managing Brakewerks, Fabio’s likely wrenching on his 914 or geeking out over Porsche history.
Why We Love Fabio
Fabio’s hard work, passion, and loyalty make him a true PMB gem. He doesn’t just manage—he inspires, pushing the team to deliver the quality Porsche owners expect. His love for the craft and positive energy light up the shop, and we’re beyond grateful to have him on board.
Big thanks, Fabio—keep leading the charge!
Meet Beau: Shipping Boss, Growth-Minded Gearhead & Family Man Extraordinaire
Beau VanKomen is the powerhouse behind PMB's shipping department—the guy who turns our daily outbound chaos into a perfectly packed, floor-to-ceiling UPS truck masterpiece every single pickup. Hailing from right here in Utah, Beau joined the team because he wanted to be surrounded by cool cars, pick up new skills, and grow as a person. And grow he has: he's got his sights set on heading up PMB’s rapidly expanding wholesale business, building himself up while helping the company level up. Quiet confidence, killer work ethic, and a genuine drive to keep pushing forward—that's Beau in a nutshell.
Beau’s Story
Beau came to PMB to immerse himself in the automotive world, learn hands-on skills, and become the best version of himself. His journey started with a Concours d'Elegance "stunning" 1997 Toyota Camry—peak grocery-getter vibes with (allegedly) massive front-wheel horsepower and torque (or something like that... we love the humble brag). These days, his dream cars shift depending on the mood, but the BMW M3 consistently tops the list, with classics like the '69 Camaro, a timeless 911 Carrera, and a fire-breathing 914-6 right behind. His current project? In his words: “His Wife.” (We checked with Susana—she's got a slightly different take: a full ground-up, frame-off “Beau” restoration in progress, and we're all dying to see her finished masterpiece. Team effort, right?) Beau's favorite PMB memories are endless: the thrill of his first time driving the shop Beetle, legendary Jimmy B. KFC Fridays, summer car shows that light up the lot, and the absolutely off-the-hook Christmas parties. The good times keep stacking up, just like those shipping pallets.
Fun Facts About Beau
- First Car: A 1997 Toyota Camry show car. Reliable, practical, and apparently packing some serious FWD punch (we'll take his word for it).
- Dream Cars: BMW M3 (the perennial favorite), a classic 1969 Camaro muscle beast, Porsche 911 Carrera icon, and a killer Porsche 914-6 for that pure driving joy.
- Current Project: Unofficially “His Wife” (per Beau). Officially: Susana's busy working on Beau’s epic ground-up frame-off husband restoration—we're hyped for the big reveal!
- Favorite PMB Memories: Too many to count. First Beetle drive, KFC Fridays with Jimmy B., epic summer car shows, wild Christmas parties, and all the laughs in between.
- Off the Clock: Beau cherishes time with his lovely wife, friends, and family. He's a dedicated gym rat staying in peak shape, dives into video games for downtime, and loves hitting Utah's stunning hot springs hikes—nothing beats soaking in those natural pools after a solid day at the shop.
Why We Love Beau
Beau is the reliable, steady force that keeps shipments flying out the door while dreaming big for the future. His quiet ambition to grow personally and lead wholesale shows real heart—he's not just here for the paycheck; he's invested in the team and the vision. Whether he's stacking boxes like Tetris or geeking out over dream cars, his positive energy and work ethic make the shop better every day. Plus, the "His Wife" project banter? Pure gold. We're thrilled to have him pushing PMB forward, one packed truck (and one hot springs hike) at a time.
Here’s to Beau—keep stacking those shipments, keep chasing those dreams (M3 included), keep spoiling Susana's husband restoration, and keep those gym gains and hot springs adventures rolling strong!
Meet Dominic: The Blasting & Stripping Pro of PMB Performance
Dom, a West Valley, UT native, joined PMB Performance eight months ago and has been making waves in our Brakewerks department. As our go-to guy for blasting and stripping, Dom brings precision and a cool-headed passion to every project, ensuring our brake components are prepped to perfection.
Dom’s Story
Since coming on board, Dom has jumped into the Brakewerks world with enthusiasm, mastering the art of blasting and stripping with a keen eye for detail. His steady hand and dedication to getting things right have quickly made him a key player in the shop. Dom’s love for the craft and his easygoing vibe fit right in with the PMB crew.
Fun Facts About Dom
- First Car & Current Project: Dom’s still rocking his 1989 Mazda B2200, pouring time and heart into turning it into something special.
- Favorite PMB Memory: Dom’s eyes light up when he recalls “seeing Diane’s stunning 1970 purple Dodge Charger roll through the shop—it was unforgettable!”
- Off the Clock: When he’s not in the shop, Dom’s balancing life as a dedicated student while soaking up the vibes of the local car scene, always on the lookout for the next cool build.
Why We Love Dom
Dom’s work ethic, chill attitude, and genuine excitement for cars make him a perfect addition to PMB. He tackles every blasting and stripping job with care, ensuring our Brakewerks projects shine. His curiosity and connection to the car community bring a fresh spark to the team, and we’re stoked to have him with us.
Thanks, Dom—keep blasting and keep being awesome!
Meet Adrian: The Metal Restoration Maestro of PMB Performance
Adrian, our metal restoration specialist, has been polishing and perfecting at PMB Performance for nine months, and his infectious humor and relentless work ethic have made him a shop favorite. Hailing from our local scene, Adrian’s dedication and flair for metalwork bring a unique shine to our team.
Adrian’s Story
Since joining PMB, Adrian has transformed our metal restoration game with his meticulous skill and passion for the craft. Whether he’s breathing new life into billet wheels or tackling intricate metalwork, his hard work and knack for detail make every project stand out. His quick wit and warm energy keep the shop buzzing, and we’re thrilled to have him as part of the PMB family.
Fun Facts About Adrian
- First Car: A 1985 Toyota pickup—yep, the exact one from Toy Story, kicking off his love for iconic rides.
- Favorite & Current Project: His 1992 Mazda B2200 lowrider, tricked out with hydraulics, is his pride and joy.
- Favorite PMB Memory: Adrian lights up when recalling his first Air-Cooled Show at PMB: “It’s mesmerizing seeing all the incredible cars I get to work on, and meeting their owners is the best—they’ve got the wildest stories!”
- Off the Clock: When he’s not polishing metal, Adrian’s cruising with his car club, lowriding with his trusty dachshund by his side, or diving into metalwork and billet wheel restoration for fun.
Why We Love Adrian
Adrian’s blend of humor, hustle, and heart makes him a true gem at PMB. His talent for turning metal into art and his genuine excitement for the cars and their owners elevate every job he touches. He’s not just restoring parts—he’s keeping the spirit of the car scene alive. We’re so grateful to have his skills and personality lighting up the shop.
Big thanks, Adrian—keep shining (and lowriding)!
Meet James: The Coachwerks Visionary of PMB Performance
James, our Coachwerks Manager, is a Southern California native whose passion for Porsche 911s and 914s fuels our shop’s innovative spirit. With a wealth of expertise in modern EFI systems and a lifelong love for German cars, James has been steering our Coachwerks division to new heights since joining PMB Performance.
James’s Story
James’s Porsche journey began at age 12, when a Porsche 914 in his neighborhood stole his heart. By his teens, that same 914 became his first car, sparking a 25-year adventure of acquiring, customizing, and autocrossing Porsches. With a tech industry background, James blends cutting-edge EFI know-how with a deep respect for vintage charm, revitalizing classic Porsches with modern performance while preserving their soul. His leadership and hands-on approach make every Coachwerks project a masterpiece.
Fun Facts About James
- First Car: A Porsche 914 that set the course for his lifelong Porsche obsession.
- Favorite Ride: The iconic Porsche 914 hits his top spot!
- Current Passion: He’s all about integrating modern EFI systems into vintage Porsches, giving them new life on the road or track.
- Favorite PMB Memory: James loves “watching a tired 914 or 911 roll into the shop and leave as a reborn classic—it’s like giving these cars a second chance to shine.”
- Off the Clock: When he’s not at PMB, James is likely autocrossing, tinkering with German cars, or dreaming up the next way to blend vintage style with modern tech.
Why We Love James
James’s expertise, passion, and knack for innovation make him the heart of Coachwerks. His ability to transform older Porsches with modern EFI systems while keeping their classic spirit is pure magic. With his warm personality and relentless drive, he inspires the team and delivers results that thrill our clients. We’re beyond lucky to have him leading the charge.
Huge thanks, James—keep redefining what Porsches can do!
Meet Wayne: The Speed-Driven Technician Powering PMB
- First Ride: A motorcycle that set the tone for his need for speed.
- Dream Machine: His current project, a Porsche Boxster S, is his automotive obsession.
- Favorite PMB Moments: Wayne treasures his time collaborating with Sam, where their synced approach made work feel like play.
- Off the Clock: Wayne’s all about speed—whether on four wheels, two wheels, one wheel, or no wheels at all. From off-road adventures to soaring through the skies in paramotors, planes, and jets, he lives for the thrill.
Meet Brayden: The Saab-Loving Tuner Bringing Fresh Energy to PMB
Brayden Underwood is our newest addition to the PMB crew. A hands-on, curious tinkerer who's quickly proving he's got the drive (and the vocal range) to fit right in. Originally from all over the Salt Lake Valley, he headed to Wisconsin at 18 before circling back to Tooele, Utah five years later. Now he's channeling that same journey-minded spirit into everything from suspension swaps to ECU tuning right here with us.
Brayden’s Story
I've enjoyed doing stuff with my hands like building, tinkering, and taking things apart to see how they work since I was in elementary school, plus I've been deep into the performance side of automotive for a few years. PMB is the perfect place to keep enjoying those things and learn more while I do it. Seeing the detail, hard work, and dedication that goes into every restoration for the first time was extremely eye-opening and refreshing. I'm excited to make memories with the whole team—whether we're working, lunching, doing events, or just hanging out. I can tell there will be plenty of good memories and good times to look back on.
Fun Facts About Brayden
- First Car: A 2015 Kia Optima SX 2.0 Turbo making 274hp stock. It was a good, fun car… until it wasn't. They're certainly not known for their reliability.
- Dream Car: A 2001 Saab 9-3 Viggen 3-door in Monte Carlo Yellow. These quirky little jet-inspired cars have quickly taken over my mind and heart.
- Current Project: My 2005 Saab 9-3 Linear. I've already replaced most of the front suspension, most of the cooling system, and many gaskets, so many things that I've spent more than I paid for it, and there's plenty more to go! I've installed a larger turbo and tuned the Trionic8 ECU from 175hp to 240hp. Bigger injectors are the next step.
- Favorite PMB Memory: (So far) Seeing the level of craftsmanship and passion poured into every restoration—it's inspiring, and I can't wait to build more memories alongside the team.
- Off the Clock: I spend some of my free time playing video games with friends. I love music and have taught myself metal vocals over the last decade—I've explored Mongolian throat singing, Tuvan throat singing, classical bass, classic rock like AC/DC, and pretty much anything to expand my skills and technique.
Why We Love Brayden
Brayden brings that perfect mix of relentless curiosity, hands-on grit, and genuine enthusiasm for both the mechanical and the performance worlds. Whether he's diving deep into Saab quirks, pushing ECU tunes further, or just soaking up the restoration process, his energy is contagious. He's already proving he's here to learn, contribute, and make the shop even more fun. We’re thrilled to have him leveling up with us every day.
Here’s to you, Brayden—keep tinkering, keep tuning, and keep those epic vocal sessions going strong!Meet Elizabeth: Queen Elizabeth, Our Shop Mother & Beetle-Loving Legend
Elizabeth Parkinson—affectionately crowned Queen Elizabeth by the PMB crew—is the steady heartbeat of the shop. Hailing from West Valley City, Utah, and now settled in Tooele, she’s the one who keeps all the boys in line with a single raised eyebrow, a dry one-liner, or that classic “don’t make me come over there” tone that somehow works every time. She doesn’t need volume or drama; her quiet command and genuine care make her the undisputed shop mother—guiding, grounding, and gently (or not-so-gently) wrangling the chaos that comes with a garage full of gearheads.She joined PMB for the best reason: to be surrounded by cool cars all day long! And she’s made good on that dream, bringing her love for classics and car culture into everything she does.
- First Car (and Dream Car): A 1968 Volkswagen Beetle. Iconic, air-cooled, and forever her favorite—nothing beats that classic bug shape and charm.
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Current Project: Scouting the ideal '60s Beetle (Jessie’s project... but everyone knows who’s really calling the shots LOL).
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Favorite PMB Memory: That innocent Rat Fink merch moment that snowballed into endless shop ribbing—and now "maybe" her own custom line featuring her powerful Dodge Durango.
- Off the Clock: Family time is everything—camping under Utah’s epic skies, tearing up trails in side-by-sides, lake days, and all things outdoors... except rock climbing (heights are a firm no—she’s got zero interest in that vertigo adventure).
Meet Jackie: The Merchant of Merth, Receiving Wizard & Euro Car Kingpin
Jackie Clark is the backbone of PMB's parts flow—the guy who makes sure every package gets logged, tracked, and delivered to the right restoration project without missing a beat. It's no small task in a shop buzzing with builds, but Jackie handles it like a pro: calm, precise, and always one step ahead of the incoming avalanche of boxes. Born in Florida and raised in Portland, Oregon, he brings that West Coast chill mixed with Southern roots to keep the shipping and receiving area running smoother than a well-tuned BMW straight-six.
Jackie’s Story
When we asked Jackie why PMB? His straight-faced answer: “A guy's gotta eat!” And just like that, the crew crowned him the Merchant of Merth—our resident master of logistics and dry (and not so dry) humor. On a more serious note, Jackie's been deeply embedded in the Euro car community here in Salt Lake City for years. We swear he owns one of every marque worth knowing: Porsches, Mercedes, BMWs, Range Rovers... the list goes on. PMB just felt like the perfect match for someone who lives and breathes these machines. Now he's the gatekeeper ensuring every rare Euro part lands exactly where it needs to be, fueling the restorations that keep the shop humming.
Fun Facts About Jackie
- First Car: A 1955 Beetle that he had to park on a hill just to pop the clutch and get it started (and yeah, he didn't even have a license yet—classic teenage ingenuity). He also owned a 1996 Geo Metro 4-door... we told him never to admit that in public, but here he is owning it in full glory.
- Dream Rides: He already owns them! A pristine 1994 BMW 540 Touring and a supercharged 2006 E39 M5 Touring. We're not exactly sure what all the specs mean (boxes with attitude?), but they make Jackie happy—and that's our only concern.
- Current Fleet Highlights: Porsche Cayenne, Mercedes wagon, Range Rover... and more. Jackie has a serious car problem (addiction!), but we call it passion.
- Current Project: None! And he's not anticipating any—we're thinking his BMWs probably claim every spare dollar (and garage space).
- Favorite PMB Memory: Hanging out with Fabio in Shipping and Receiving, laughing at just about everything. Those moments turn long days into good times.
- Off the Clock: Jackie's a true homebody at heart. He enjoys hitting local car shows and the scene, dining and hanging with friends, taking care of his fur babies, and chilling with his roomie—simple, solid vibes.
Why We Love Jackie
Jackie is the quiet powerhouse who keeps PMB from descending into parts pandemonium. As our Receiving Manager (and Merchant of Merth), he brings organization, reliability, and a killer sense of humor to everything he touches. His deep roots in the Euro community mean he knows these cars inside out, and his massive (and ever-growing) collection is the stuff of legends. Whether he's wrangling shipments or cracking jokes with Fabio, Jackie's steady presence makes the shop better—and a lot more fun. We're grateful for his grit, his knowledge, and the way he turns "a guy's gotta eat" into a full-on career of car passion.
Here’s to Jackie—the Merchant of Merth—keep those parts flowing, keep the laughs rolling, keep ruling the Euro scene, and never stop owning that Geo Metro confession!
Meet Mikel: The Master Behind Your Painted Calipers
If your painted calipers are turning heads, you’ve got Mikel to thank! As PMB Performance’s resident caliper paint wizard, Mikel brings precision, passion, and a contagious positive vibe to our team. Since joining us, he’s become an indispensable part of the crew, blending artistry with automotive expertise to make every project pop.
Mikel’s Story
Mikel’s knack for detail and can-do attitude have made him a true standout here at PMB. Whether he’s perfecting a caliper’s finish or diving into a new challenge, his work reflects the pride and quality that define PMB Performance.
Fun Facts About Mikel:
- First Ride: A 2009 Mercedes-Benz C300 kicked off his automotive journey. (spoiled brat... LOL)
- Dream Machine: He’s currently obsessed with the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 Black.
- Favorite PMB Moments: Mikel lights up recalling “Laps at Utah Motorsports Campus during Diane and Eric’s wedding” and the “epic vibes at our first Air-Cooled Bash.” He adds, “Honestly, every day at PMB is a blast!”
- Off the Clock: Growing up, Mikel’s dad fueled his love for sport bikes and supercars. Now, you’ll find him wrenching on his own cars and bikes.
Why We Love Mikel
Mikel’s passion for quality and his upbeat energy make him a perfect fit for PMB. He’s not just painting calipers—he’s crafting experiences that Porsche enthusiasts cherish. We’re thrilled to have him on board and can’t wait to see what he brings next.
Here’s to you, Mikel—keep the good times and great work rolling!
Meet Marco: Master Caliper Painter
Marco Mendoza is PMB's newest resident paint wizard—the guy who turns brake calipers into rolling works of art with flawless coverage, zero runs, and zero missed spots. Originally from Eric's old stomping grounds in Chicago, Illinois, Marco arrived at PMB as an already seasoned pro from the high-speed world of auto body and collision repair. He didn't come for the easy life; he came to apprentice under the masterful hands of Mikel and Braxton, diving deep into the craft of painting calipers. Why the switch? Because painting a caliper is worlds apart from flat body panels—it's like tackling a mini vehicle with insane complexity. You've got to hit every side, every inside pad cavity, every awkward angle and hidden crevice. One wrong move, and you've got dry spots from missed coverage or ugly runs from overload. Getting it perfect demands the kind of passed-down, battle-tested knowledge that only comes from mentors who've been there, sprayed that. Marco soaked it all up, and now he's picking up the torch, kicking our painted caliper business into high gear with precision and pride.
Marco’s Story
Marco traded the fast-paced Chicago collision scene for PMB to truly master his craft—learning the nuances of caliper painting from the best in the business. His first car left a massive impression: a sleek 1987 Mazda RX-7 that hooked him on rotary power and sharp handling. These days, his heart belongs to the Mercury Capri family—his current project is a Capri build he's pouring everything into, and his ultimate dream ride? You guessed it: a pristine MK1 Mercury Capri (the original 1970–1977 "Sexy European"). These little fastback coupes have a serious cult following among enthusiasts. Born as Europe's answer to the Mustang (designed with Mustang DNA but built on Cortina bones), the MK1 Capri hit the US market as an affordable, stylish import fighter—sporty looks, great handling, and endless tunability that made it a favorite for modders and racers. It sold like hotcakes, earned a loyal fanbase that still restores, swaps engines into, and celebrates them today. Marco's obsession fits right in—he's chasing that classic European flair with American muscle potential (and hey, if you're reading this, Marco... an insane Coyote V8 swap would be legendary). His favorite PMB memories? The group lunches (shoutout to Jimmy’s legendary KFC extravaganzas) and the endless banter, wild stories, and laughs shared with this awesome team. It's the kind of camaraderie that makes long days fly by.Fun Facts About Marco First Car: A 1987 Mazda RX-7—rotary-powered legend that left tire marks on his heart (and probably a few roads too).
- Dream Car: The iconic MK1 Mercury Capri (1970–1977)—that "Sexy European" fastback with cult status for its style, affordability, and mod potential. A true enthusiast favorite that still turns heads at shows.
- Current Project: His Mercury Capri build—pouring love (and likely a ton of paint skills) into bringing this classic back to life. (Pro tip: Coyote V8 swap? We're just saying...)
- Favorite PMB Memories: Those epic group lunches with Jimmy's KFC feasts and the non-stop storytelling and banter from the crew—pure shop family vibes.
- Off the Clock: Marco treasures time with his beloved daughter above all else, plus diving deep into that crazy Capri project. Family, fatherhood, and fab paint jobs—that's his perfect balance.
Why We Love Marco
Marco brings Chicago grit, pro-level talent, and a quiet passion that shines through every perfectly painted caliper. He's not just spraying paint—he's elevating our game, learning from the masters, and now leading the charge on calipers with unmatched precision. His Capri obsession adds that extra layer of car-guy soul to the team, and his dedication to family and growth makes him the kind of guy everyone roots for. We're stoked to watch him take our painted caliper business to new heights—one flawless coat at a time.
Here’s to Marco—keep nailing those hidden spots, keep chasing that MK1 dream (Coyote swap when?), keep making time for your daughter, and keep the shop stories coming strong!