Amanda Martin is best known as the sharp-minded business force and co-owner behind Martin Bros Customs, alongside her husband Joe Martin, on the hit television series Iron Resurrection. While viewers frequently see her tracking down rusted wrecks and managing the finances for custom bike and car builds, her path to television stardom wasn't forged in a mechanic's garage.
Before stepping in front of the MotorTrend and Discovery Channel cameras, Amanda built a successful corporate career as a senior banking executive. Her ability to transition from corporate finance to leading a premier custom automotive shop has made her an inspiring figure for fans of custom vehicle restoration.
Early Life and Corporate Background
Born on December 11, 1973, in Red Oak, Texas, Amanda grew up in a close-knit family with her parents and three siblings. Long before she was associated with wrenches and custom paint jobs, she spent years climbing the corporate ladder in the financial sector.
She worked at major financial institutions, starting out at Wells Fargo where she advanced to a branch manager position. Later, she transitioned to Pioneer Bank, where she served as Vice President of Deposit Operations and Product Manager. Her extensive background in finance gave her the operational and management skills that would eventually keep Martin Bros Customs financially stable and growing. Even after the television show first launched, she balanced her corporate responsibilities with her growing role in the custom vehicle business for over a year before dedicating herself full-time to the shop.
The Iron Resurrection Era
The turning point in public recognition came when she and her husband Joe—a custom builder who previously won the Discovery Channel's Biker Build-Off—launched their reality series Iron Resurrection. The show follows the Texas-based team as they hunt down dilapidated, forgotten cars and motorcycles, dragging them back to the shop to give them a second life.
While Joe and the garage crew handle the heavy fabrication, welding, and engine work, Amanda acts as the strategic backbone of the business. Her responsibilities include:
- Sourcing neglected vehicles and negotiating purchases.
- Managing client relations and shop budgeting.
- Overseeing day-to-day operations to ensure custom projects stay on schedule and profitable.
Her calm demeanor, business acumen, and sharp eye for value quickly turned her into a fan favorite, helping establish the shop as a destination for automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
Life Beyond the Cameras
Away from the workshop lights and television production crews, Amanda leads a relatively grounded life in Johnson City, Texas. She is heavily involved in the local community and is a passionate animal advocate, frequently supporting pit bull rescue operations alongside her family.
She also helps manage the brand's official merchandise lines and supports various charitable initiatives. By balancing corporate discipline with creative custom craftsmanship, she's carved out a unique legacy in the modern automotive world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Amanda Martin's career before television?
Before joining Martin Bros Customs full-time, Amanda spent years working in corporate banking. She rose to become a branch manager at Wells Fargo and later served as Vice President of Deposit Operations and Product Manager at Pioneer Bank.
How did Amanda get involved with Iron Resurrection?
She is married to master builder Joe Martin. When their custom vehicle shop in Texas gained recognition and landed a television deal, Amanda stepped in as a co-owner and co-host to manage the business side of the operations.
What is Amanda's role at Martin Bros Customs?
She handles the financial operations, client relations, and vehicle sourcing. While the mechanics focus on tearing down and rebuilding engines and frames, she ensures the shop remains a viable, high-end custom enterprise.
Is Amanda Martin still active in the automotive industry?
Yes. Although reality television schedules shift, she continues to work alongside Joe Martin, managing the business side of Martin Bros Customs and engaging with automotive fans and supporters.
