The DirtFish shop is one of the most vital pieces of running a successful rally school. Without hard-working guys like Chase Schmidt, our cars would be in disrepair, and we wouldn’t be able to run classes seven days per week all year long. Chase is a local guy who grew up near DirtFish. After he completed school, he obtained a job in our shop where he was able to work his way through the ranks to become our Lead Fabricator. Find out more about Chase below:
Where are you from and where did you grow up?
I grew up in Sammamish until my family moved to Snoqualmie when I was in the 5th grade.
How did you get involved in the sport of rally?
I have always had a huge interest in cars and motorsports of all types. I was lucky enough to be offered a job at DirtFish that I just couldn’t turn down. That’s really what got me into the sport.
What made you want to work on cars?
Growing up, I always saw cool cars that made me want one of my own! Since I wasn’t able to afford to buy the ones I saw, that meant that I had to build something I really wanted. That was my motivation to work on cars.
What made you choose DirtFish over any other driving school? And, why rally over other motorsports?
DirtFish had everything that I was interested in. Plus, it’s located in my hometown, so it made the most sense for me to start working here.
How long have you worked at DirtFish?
I have been here for nearly four years.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I have been into Motocross for a long time and still do that for fun with my friends. A few years ago, I began drifting, and I was hooked. Now, I do my best to make it to the track as often as possible.
Do you compete in any type of racing? If so, what series do you compete in? What kind of car do you race?
I competed in motocross for a long time, but more recently, I have been competing in drift competitions. Last year was my first full season of ProAm drifting, which I will be continuing this year.
What kind of car do you drive daily?
I have had a few. Everything from a Diesel Truck and a pre-runner style Toyota Tacoma to my current E46 BMW.
What kind of jams do you listen to while cruising to work in the morning?
I usually listen to some genre of rap. It doesn’t matter if it’s new or old, I pretty much enjoy all of it.
What else should the DirtFish fans know about you?
I am fascinated with welding and building race cars. When it comes to building a race-prepped car, I pride myself on the fitment of the roll cages that I install.
