Aaron Kaufman, a name synonymous with exceptional automotive craftsmanship and creativity, has been a beloved figure in the world of car enthusiasts for many years.

Best known for his role as the lead mechanic on the hit TV show Fast N’ Loud, Kaufman has continued to evolve, both personally and professionally, since his departure from the Gas Monkey Garage in 2017. So, where is Aaron Kaufman now? This article delves into his journey post-Fast N’ Loud, exploring his current endeavors, personal life, and what the future may hold for this bearded wonder.

A New Chapter: Leaving Gas Monkey Garage

In 2017, fans of Fast N’ Loud were taken by surprise when Aaron Kaufman announced his decision to leave the Gas Monkey Garage, the place where he had spent 14 years building and modifying cars with unmatched precision. His departure was not just a shock to viewers but also to his long-time colleague Richard Rawlings, who had worked side by side with Kaufman to build the Gas Monkey brand.

Kaufman’s decision to leave was driven by a combination of professional and personal reasons. He expressed a desire for more creative control over the projects he worked on, a freedom that the confines of reality television did not always allow. “I wanted to build cars that were… big… and then TV needed cars that were much smaller,” Kaufman explained. The disconnect between his creative vision and the demands of the show was a significant factor in his decision to move on.

Moreover, Kaufman hinted at growing personal issues and professional differences that made it clear to him that it was time to take a new direction. “I had some time off, and I think I have some other cats I want to scan, some other things I want to get into,” Kaufman said during his emotional departure. This marked the end of an era for Fast N’ Loud, but it was just the beginning of a new chapter for Aaron Kaufman.

Arclight Fabrication: Building a Dream

After leaving Fast N’ Loud, Aaron Kaufman wasted no time in pursuing his passion for cars in a way that aligned more closely with his personal vision. He founded Arclight Fabrication, a Dallas-based enterprise that specializes in aftermarket components for the Ford F-100 pickup. This move allowed Kaufman to channel his love for classic trucks into a business that not only celebrates automotive history but also pushes the boundaries of what these vehicles can achieve with modern enhancements.

Arclight Fabrication is more than just a business; it is a reflection of Kaufman’s dedication to the craft of car building. The company offers a range of products designed to improve the performance and aesthetics of the Ford F-100, from custom suspension components to engine parts. Kaufman’s hands-on approach ensures that every product meets the highest standards of quality, a commitment that has earned Arclight Fabrication a loyal following among car enthusiasts.

Shifting Gears: Aaron Kaufman’s Return to Television

Despite his departure from Fast N’ Loud, Aaron Kaufman did not turn his back on television entirely. In fact, his love for cars and storytelling led him to star in his own show, Shifting Gears with Aaron Kaufman, which premiered on March 5, 2018, on the Discovery Channel. The show gave Kaufman the creative freedom he craved, allowing him to take on ambitious automotive projects that showcased his skills as a master fabricator.

Shifting Gears was more than just a car show; it was a platform for Kaufman to explore different aspects of the automotive world, from building custom vehicles to participating in motorsports events. The show highlighted Kaufman’s ability to push the limits of car design and performance, earning him even more respect in the automotive community.

Although Shifting Gears only ran for one season, it was a critical success and served as a testament to Kaufman’s talent and vision. The show’s focus on innovation and craftsmanship resonated with viewers, reinforcing Kaufman’s status as one of the most influential figures in the world of custom car building.

Aaron Needs A Job: Expanding Horizons

Following the success of Shifting Gears, Aaron Kaufman embarked on another television adventure with his show Aaron Needs A Job, which aired on the Discovery Channel. This series saw Kaufman stepping outside the world of custom cars to explore various industries across the United States, from military vehicle maintenance to locomotive engineering.

Aaron Needs A Job was a departure from Kaufman’s usual automotive projects, but it allowed him to showcase his versatility and curiosity about how things work. The show provided viewers with an inside look at different industries, all through Kaufman’s unique perspective as a fabricator and problem solver. It was a fascinating exploration of the American workforce and the diverse skills that keep the country running.

While Aaron Needs A Job might not have been directly related to car building, it was a natural extension of Kaufman’s desire to understand and master different mechanical challenges. The show’s success further solidified his reputation as not just a car builder, but a multi-talented craftsman with a deep passion for learning.

A Personal Side: Aaron Kaufman’s Life Off-Screen

Beyond his professional achievements, Aaron Kaufman’s personal life has also garnered interest from fans. Despite his public persona, Kaufman has managed to keep much of his personal life private, only sharing glimpses through social media.

Kaufman is not married, but he has been in a long-term relationship with Lauren Moore Knob. The couple has been together since at least 2013, and they frequently appear on each other’s social media accounts. While they are not married, their relationship appears to be solid, and they share a mutual love for their two pit bulls, Lola and Lizzie.

Lauren, who describes herself as a “dog mom to two velvet beans,” is an advocate for pit bull rescue and rehabilitation. She uses her platform to promote The Love Pit, a Dallas-based organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating homeless pit bulls. The couple’s shared passion for dogs and animal welfare is evident in their social media posts, where their dogs often take center stage.

Despite being in a committed relationship for over a decade, Aaron and Lauren have shown no rush to get married. They seem content with their current lifestyle, focusing on their careers and their beloved dogs. Their relationship is a testament to their laid-back approach to life, where mutual respect and shared interests take precedence over societal expectations.

Motorsports: A Passion Beyond the Garage

In addition to his work in car building and television, Aaron Kaufman has also ventured into the world of motorsports. In September 2015, Kaufman competed in the Speed Energy Formula Off-Road (Stadium Super Trucks) series, driving a Toyo Tires-sponsored truck at the Sand Sports Super Show in Costa Mesa, California.

Although Kaufman’s foray into motorsports was met with mixed results—he finished fifth in both his heat races and struggled during the main events—his participation highlighted his willingness to step outside his comfort zone and tackle new challenges. Fellow driver Robby Gordon even joked that Kaufman’s driving was “some of the best, worst driving I have ever seen,” reflecting the camaraderie and good-natured competition within the motorsports community.

Kaufman’s involvement in motorsports, though brief, added another dimension to his already impressive resume. It showcased his ability to adapt to different aspects of the automotive world, whether in the garage or on the racetrack.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Aaron Kaufman

So, where is Aaron Kaufman now? The answer is that he is everywhere and anywhere his passion for cars, craftsmanship, and exploration takes him. From founding Arclight Fabrication to starring in his own TV shows and dabbling in motorsports, Kaufman continues to be a dynamic force in the automotive world.

His journey since leaving Fast N’ Loud has been marked by a commitment to staying true to his creative vision, exploring new opportunities, and sharing his love for all things mechanical with the world. Whether he is designing aftermarket components, building custom vehicles, or delving into new industries, Aaron Kaufman remains a master of his craft and an inspiration to car enthusiasts everywhere.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why did Aaron Kaufman leave Fast N’ Loud?

Aaron Kaufman left Fast N’ Loud in 2017 due to creative differences and a desire for more control over his projects. He wanted to build cars on a larger scale, which the show’s format didn’t always allow. Additionally, there were growing personal and professional issues that prompted him to seek new opportunities.

2. What is Aaron Kaufman doing now?

Aaron Kaufman is currently running his own business, Arclight Fabrication, which specializes in aftermarket components for the Ford F-100 pickup. He has also starred in two TV shows, Shifting Gears with Aaron Kaufman and Aaron Needs A Job, both on the Discovery Channel.

3. Is Aaron Kaufman married?

No, Aaron Kaufman is not married. However, he has been in a long-term relationship with Lauren Moore Knob since at least 2013. The couple lives together and shares two pit bulls, Lola and Lizzie.

4. Does Aaron Kaufman still work on cars?

Yes, Aaron Kaufman continues to work on cars through his company, Arclight Fabrication. The business allows him to focus on his passion for custom car building, particularly for the Ford F-100 pickup, while also providing high-quality aftermarket parts to enthusiasts.

5. What happened to Aaron Kaufman’s show Shifting Gears?

Shifting Gears with Aaron Kaufman aired for one season on the Discovery Channel in 2018. While the show was well-received, it only ran for a single season. Kaufman later moved on to another show, Aaron Needs A Job, where he explored various industries across the United States.