Chad Hiltz, known as Bad Chad, is a Canadian TV personality and custom car builder from Nova Scotia, celebrated for his reality show Bad Chad Customs on Discovery Channel. At 54 years old in 2025, Hiltz’s net worth is estimated at $3 million, amassed through his auto shop, Hiltz Auto Co., and media ventures. He is engaged to Jolene MacIntyre since 2017, with no confirmed marriage plans. His salary remains undisclosed, but his income stems from car customization and TV appearances. This article dives into his biography, dating history, and recent updates, offering fresh insights into his life and career.
Who Is Chad Hiltz? A Deep Dive into His Biography
Born on August 31, 1971, in Kingsport, Nova Scotia, Chad Hiltz grew up surrounded by cars, thanks to his father, Doug Hiltz, a gas station owner and car enthusiast. His passion for automobiles was sparked early, working on a 1934 Ford three-window coupe with his father at 16. Despite dropping out of high school to support his first child, Hiltz’s self-taught skills and creativity led him to found Hiltz Auto Co. (formerly Green Goblin Customs). His unique approach—transforming scrap into award-winning vehicles—earned him fame on Bad Chad Customs, which aired from 2019 to 2020.
Hiltz’s journey reflects resilience. He faced challenges, including job losses and licensing issues with the Green Goblin name, but his ingenuity shone through. A 2023 interview on his YouTube channel revealed his philosophy: “I build cars from whatever’s around—scrap metal, old appliances. It’s about seeing potential where others see junk.” This mindset has made him a standout in the automotive world.
Chad Hiltz’s Age and Early Life
As of 2025, Chad Hiltz is 54 years old, born under the Virgo zodiac sign. Growing up in a small seaside village, he was influenced by his parents’ love for vintage cars—his mother drove a 1946 Dodge, and his father owned a 1956 Ford Crown Victoria. These early experiences shaped his career. Unlike many in his field, Hiltz lacked formal education, leaving college after a dispute during an auto-body course. His real education came from hands-on work, mentored by legendary customizer Gene Winfield.
Net Worth and Salary: How Chad Hiltz Built His Wealth
Chad Hiltz’s net worth is estimated at $3 million in 2025, a significant shift from earlier $90 million claims, which were likely inflated due to unverified sources. His wealth comes from Hiltz Auto Co., where he crafts custom cars, and his TV show Bad Chad Customs. Additional income flows from YouTube content, with over 330,000 subscribers, and merchandise sales on his official website. While his exact salary isn’t public, industry estimates suggest custom car builders earn $50,000–$100,000 annually, with TV appearances boosting earnings significantly.
A case study of Hiltz’s business model shows his cost-effective approach—using scrap materials—yields high returns. For instance, his 1939 Studebaker Commander build, featured on YouTube, cost under $10,000 in materials but fetched awards and media attention, increasing its value tenfold.
Married Life and Dating History
Chad Hiltz is not married but has been engaged to Jolene MacIntyre since August 12, 2017. The couple, who began dating in November 2016, shares a strong bond, with Jolene serving as shop manager at Hiltz Auto Co. She’s also a former soccer player with a commerce degree from Saint Mary’s University. Their chemistry was evident on Bad Chad Customs, where Jolene contributed to builds like a 1957 Cadillac Coupe DeVille. As of 2025, no wedding date is confirmed, but Jolene’s Instagram posts suggest a thriving relationship: “Gratitude keeps us grounded and in love.”
Hiltz’s past includes two marriages. At 16, he became a father and married briefly, welcoming a daughter. At 27, he married again, fathering his son Colton Hiltz (born April 10, 1998). A third relationship with a woman named Mosher produced daughter Harlee Hiltz (born August 15, 2004). Hiltz remains private about his ex-wives, focusing on his current life with Jolene.
Career Highlights and Recent Updates
Hiltz’s career soared with Bad Chad Customs, which ran for two seasons (2019–2020). The show showcased his ability to turn junk into masterpieces, like a 1940 Ford transformed in 2022. He’s won multiple awards, including three at the World of Wheels in Boston and four at the Castrol Radical Speed Sports show in Moncton. His YouTube channel remains active, with a 2024 video, “Arriving to prom in the custom 1939 Studebaker Commander,” garnering over 5.1 million views.
In 2025, Hiltz continues to innovate, recently unveiling a 1963 Ford Galaxie project on Facebook. Unlike competitors who rely on high-budget builds, Hiltz’s low-cost, resourceful approach sets him apart. His shop’s motto, “Build it from what’s around you,” resonates with DIY enthusiasts worldwide.
Chad Hiltz Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chad Hiltz |
| Nickname | Bad Chad |
| Date of Birth | August 31, 1971 |
| Age (2025) | 54 years |
| Birthplace | Kingsport, Nova Scotia, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
| Parents | Doug Hiltz (father), Patricia Hiltz (mother) |
| Height | 5 feet 8 inches (1.72 meters) |
| Weight | 150 lbs (68 kg) |
| Profession | Custom Car Builder, TV Personality, YouTuber |
| Company | Hiltz Auto Co. (formerly Green Goblin Customs) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $3 million |
| Salary | Estimated $50,000–$100,000 annually (unconfirmed) |
| Relationship Status | Engaged to Jolene MacIntyre (since August 12, 2017) |
| Children | Three: Two daughters, one son (Colton, born April 10, 1998; Harlee, born August 15, 2004) |
| Education | Dropped out of high school; briefly attended auto-body course |
| Notable Awards | Three awards at World of Wheels, four at Castrol Radical Speed Sports |
| TV Show | Bad Chad Customs (2019–2020) |
| YouTube Subscribers | Over 330,000 (as of 2025) |
| Social Media | Instagram, Facebook, YouTube |
Why Chad Hiltz Stands Out
Hiltz’s appeal lies in his authenticity and resourcefulness. Unlike mainstream car builders, he avoids flashy budgets, focusing on creativity. A 2024 fan survey on his YouTube community showed 78% of viewers admire his ability to “make something from nothing.” His mentorship under Gene Winfield and hands-on approach make him a role model for aspiring builders. Hiltz’s story also highlights the value of perseverance—overcoming early parenthood and career setbacks to build a global brand.
Final Thoughts
Chad Hiltz, at 54, continues to redefine car customization with his innovative spirit and Bad Chad Customs legacy. His $3 million net worth, engagement to Jolene MacIntyre, and thriving career reflect a life built on passion and grit. Whether you’re curious about his age, married life, salary, or dating history, Hiltz’s journey offers inspiration. Follow his latest projects on Hiltz Auto Co. or explore his Wikipedia page for more details.
