Meet our team

Our mission is straight forward. Provide the very best service, craftsmanship and professionalism in the industry. We are dedicated to the preservation, restoration and maintenance of your classics while adding touches of modern functionality and safety to keep your car up to date and safe to operate in today's traffic.

FFR Fabrication is a one stop shop for all things automotive and beyond. We have a great team of fabricators and technicians with a broad range of skills that allow us to build and repair just about anything.

Tony Ruiz: Founder & Owner Operator

Tony is a graduate of the De Anza College Automotive Technology program, earning Top Tech awards that reflect his exceptional skills and dedication. A master mechanic both in practice and certification, Tony is capable of tackling nearly any automotive challenge with expertise.

In 2012, Tony started FFR Fabrication & Repair as a one-man operation, driven by a commitment to quality and exceptional customer service. His no-nonsense attitude and impeccable craftsmanship quickly drew clients seeking high-end classic car service, repair, and restoration in San Jose.

Tony’s vision and passion laid the foundation for what FFR Fabrication is today—a trusted name in the restoration of classic and custom vehicles. His leadership continues to inspire the team to deliver excellence on every project.

Greg Jones: General Manager/Project Manager

A San Jose native, Greg brings over 20 years of professional automotive experience to FFR Fabrication. His career has spanned a wide range of specialties, including general repair, hybrid and electric vehicles, and hot rods.

As General Manager, Greg is your guide through every step of the restoration and repair process. From initial estimates to the final delivery of your classic car, he ensures a seamless and transparent experience. Known for his exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship, Greg has the unique ability to focus on both the finer details and the overall vision of the finished product.

Greg’s dedication to quality and his passion for classic cars make him an invaluable part of the FFR team.

Pat Malanado: Restoration Techncian

Born and raised in Willow Glen, CA, Pat brings over 30 years of experience as a skilled technician in the Bay Area. He is an ASE Certified Master Technician and has earned multiple certifications from the College of San Mateo, De Anza College, and CCOC.

Throughout his extensive career, Pat has honed his craft by working on a diverse range of vehicles, from tree chippers and tractor trailers to high-performance hot rods. He values the lessons learned both through his own experiences and from the talented technicians he has had the privilege of working alongside.

Pat thrives on a good challenge and takes pride in getting the job done right the first time, ensuring every project meets the highest standards of quality and precision.

Eric Lichtenwalter: Shop Foreman/Lead Engineer

Eric, a proud graduate of San Jose State University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, brings a driving passion for custom cars to the FFR team. His diverse skill set includes the design and fabrication of custom suspension systems, fuel injection systems, turbo and supercharger systems, vehicle wiring, sheet metal fabrication, and much more.

With a keen eye for blending function and form, Eric consistently delivers high-quality work that not only performs exceptionally but also looks stunning. His dedication to innovation and excellence makes him an invaluable asset to every project at FFR.

Jose Barahona: Restoration Technician

A California native raised in San Jose, Jose began his career nearly 30 years ago at his father’s body shop, where he developed a deep passion for classic car restoration. To further hone his craft, he attended WyoTech, specializing in high-performance engines, street rod design, and chassis fabrication.

Jose is a master of sheet metal work and rust repairs, blending precision and artistry to deliver exceptional results. His commitment to excellence is unwavering, and he takes pride in producing work that meets the highest standards. At FFR, Jose’s expertise and dedication ensure every project is completed to perfection.

Michael Twitchell: Restoration Technician

Born and raised in San Jose, Michael has been passionate about cars since he started working on them at the age of 15. He began his professional journey at a hot rod shop in Campbell, where he honed his craft over a decade. Before that, he gained hands-on experience building and racing a 360 Sprint car alongside his stepfather.

Michael brings a diverse skill set to FFR, specializing in wiring and crafting clean, precise brake and fuel hard lines. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Michael ensures that every aspect of his work is organized and executed to the highest standard. For him, excellence is non-negotiable.

Angela Soria: Office and Parts Manager

A Bay Area native and Los Gatos High School graduate, Angela began her career after completing medical billing training at De Anza College. She first worked as a massage therapist and later managed a chiropractic clinic before transitioning to office management at a machine shop in San Jose.

At FFR, Angela is the friendly face who greets you and ensures your car is checked in for its visit. She’s also the voice you’ll likely hear when calling the shop. Known for her attention to detail and multitasking skills, Angela plays a vital role in keeping the shop running smoothly and efficiently.

Riley Meek Pierce: Technician Apprentice

Born and raised in San Jose, Riley's passion for cars ignited at age 17 while working on his own Corvette. This early experience sparked a deep interest in engine machining and building, driving him to master new techniques and tackle complex projects with enthusiasm.

In his free time, Riley dedicates himself to fine-tuning his supercharged Corvette, blending hands-on expertise with a relentless commitment to quality and performance. His drive for innovation and attention to detail make him an invaluable asset to the FFR Fabrication team.