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MEET THE STAFF OF KUSTOMZ TRUCK AND AUTO!
Meet The Kustomz Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
At Kustomz Truck Auto & Marine, our crew brings decades of combined experience to every repair, restoration, and custom build. From precision collision repair to one-of-a-kind fabrication, each team member plays a key role in keeping our customers’ rides road-ready and looking their best.
We’re not just coworkers, we’re automotive enthusiasts. The same passion that fuels your next adventure drives our work every day.
Leadership
Owner/Collision repair and marine specialist
Steve Darling
Steve founded Kustomz Truck & Auto in November 2001 and has worked in the collision and customization industry since 1992. With an Associate of Applied Science degree in Collision Repair,
Steve leads by example, combining precision craftsmanship with passion for the automotive trade.
Outside the shop, Steve enjoys coaching soccer, riding dirt bikes, camping, boating, jet skiing, and snowboarding.
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Bookkeeper & Accounting
Michele Darling
Michele keeps the entire operation running smoothly.
She’s been managing the books for years and now plays a full-time role in the office. She is often the first friendly voice greeting customers.
When Michele’s not keeping the numbers in line, she enjoys family time and a warm drink from Black Hills Blends.
Operations & Marketing
General Manager; Operations Director
Tristan Hullihen
Tristan has been part of Kustomz since 2011.
With a Business Administration degree specializing in Marketing, he oversees daily operations and runs social media, though he’s never shy about lending a hand in the shop.
He spends his free time biking, snowboarding, and wakeboarding.
Collision & Fabrication Team
Austin Franke: Auto Body and Collision Repair Expert
Austin earned his Auto Body Repair degree from Southeast Tech in 2019. Known for his sharp paintwork and attention to detail, he ensures each project leaves the shop with factory-level finish.
Off the clock, Austin enjoys riding bikes, camping, and working on his Subaru.
Nate Black: Custom Fabricator/Auto body
Nate is Kustomz’s go-to “metal master.” He’s known for fabricating one-of-a-kind builds and handling complex collision repairs.
In his downtime, Nate enjoys weekend BBQs and tinkering on personal projects at his home shop.
Kaydance Mitchell: Auto Body and Collision Repair Expert
​Kaydance contributes precision and focus to every repair, helping restore vehicles to pre-accident condition.
(Full bio coming soon.)
Devin Dennis: Master Mechanic and Custom Parts Installer
Devin brings his 20+ years of Mechanical experience to the Kustomz team. He specializes in Custom parts installation and Full Mechanical Diagnostics and Repair.
(Full bio coming soon.)
Gage Carlson: Shop Hand
Gage is ready to lend a helping hand wherever he is needed. From Mechanics, Body Work, Custom parts, and anything else you can think of. Gage is your guy!