Dave Turin, widely known as “Dozer Dave,” is a celebrated American civil engineer, gold miner, and reality TV star, best recognized for his role on Discovery Channel’s Gold Rush and its spinoff Gold Rush: Dave Turin’s Lost Mine. As of 2025, fans are curious about Dave Turin’s age, net worth, married life, salary, dating history, and career milestones. Born on April 21, 1959, Dave is 66 years old, with a net worth estimated at $3 million, largely from his mining ventures and TV career. Married to his high school sweetheart, Shelly Turin, Dave balances a demanding career with a rich family life. This article dives deep into his biography, offering fresh insights and updates.
Early Life and Education: Shaping Dave Turin’s Career Path
Born in Sandy, Oregon, Dave Turin grew up in the rugged foothills of Mt. Hood, fostering a love for the outdoors through hunting and fishing. His early exposure to his family’s rock quarry business, Mt. Hood Rock, laid the foundation for his expertise in mining. A standout athlete, Dave played football in high school and college, showcasing discipline that later defined his career. He earned a degree in civil engineering from Portland State University, a credential that equipped him to manage complex mining operations. His small-town roots and technical education shaped his practical, hands-on approach to challenges.
“Growing up in Oregon, I learned the value of hard work early on. The quarry wasn’t just a job—it was a classroom for life,” Dave shared in a 2023 interview on his official website.
Dave Turin’s Career: From Quarry to Gold Rush Stardom
Dave’s career began in the family-owned Mt. Hood Rock, where he worked alongside his father, Jim Turin, and three brothers for over 25 years. His expertise in quarry management caught the attention of Todd Hoffman, who invited him to consult on Gold Rush in 2010. Initially an advisor, Dave joined the Hoffman Crew full-time in Season 2, earning the nickname “Dozer Dave” for his bulldozer skills. His tenure on Gold Rush spanned seven seasons, with a notable haul of 3,032 ounces of gold in 2015, valued at over $3 million.
In 2017, Dave left Gold Rush after a conflict with a crew member but returned in 2019 with his spinoff, Gold Rush: Dave Turin’s Lost Mine. The show follows Dave as he revives abandoned mines across the U.S., with Season 1 yielding 80 ounces of gold worth $96,000. By 2025, he hosts America’s Backyard Gold, educating viewers on small-scale prospecting. His career reflects a blend of technical skill and entrepreneurial spirit, inspiring aspiring miners.
Case Study: In Season 2 of Lost Mine, Dave’s team tackled a Montana placer mine, overcoming harsh weather to extract 225 ounces of gold. This success highlighted his strategic planning and resilience, qualities that resonate with viewers.
Dave Turin’s Net Worth and Salary in 2025
As of 2025, Dave Turin’s net worth is estimated at $3 million, driven by his mining ventures, TV appearances, and public speaking engagements. His salary from Gold Rush reportedly reached $50,000 per episode, supplemented by gold earnings and his family’s quarry business. Unlike some reality stars, Dave maintains a modest lifestyle, investing in his family and charitable causes. His financial success underscores his ability to monetize expertise while staying grounded.
Insight: Dave’s diversified income streams—mining, TV, and speaking—offer a model for reality stars transitioning to sustainable wealth. His focus on mentorship and community giving sets him apart.
Personal Life: Dave Turin’s Married Life and Family
Dave Turin has been married to Shelly Turin, a nurse and business partner, for over three decades. The couple met at Sandy Union High School and share a deep bond rooted in shared values. They have three grown children—a doctor, a jewelry boutique owner, and one involved in the family business—and four grandchildren. Shelly’s private nature contrasts with Dave’s public persona, though she occasionally appears in his Instagram posts (@dozer_dave).
“Shelly’s my rock. She’s been with me through every crazy mining adventure,” Dave posted on Instagram in 2024, celebrating their anniversary.
Dave’s dating history is minimal, as he married young and has remained devoted to Shelly. His family-oriented lifestyle, evident in social media posts of fishing trips and holiday gatherings, resonates with fans. Dave’s Christian faith guides his life, influencing his mentorship of young miners and community involvement.
Recent Updates and Future Ventures
In 2025, Dave continues to host America’s Backyard Gold, with filming in states like Colorado and Nevada. He’s also launched a nugget jewelry line with his daughter, blending family and business. Rumors of a new TV project surfaced on X in June 2025, hinting at a series exploring sustainable mining practices. Dave’s advocacy for trade careers addresses labor shortages, earning praise from industry leaders.
Data Point: A 2024 survey by the National Mining Association noted a 15% increase in interest in mining careers, partly attributed to shows like Gold Rush.
Dave Turin Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David Turin |
| Nickname | Dozer Dave |
| Date of Birth | April 21, 1959 |
| Age (2025) | 66 years old |
| Birthplace | Sandy, Oregon, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Degree in Civil Engineering, Portland State University |
| Occupation | Civil Engineer, Miner, Reality TV Star, Public Speaker |
| Notable Shows | Gold Rush, Gold Rush: Dave Turin’s Lost Mine, America’s Backyard Gold |
| Spouse | Shelly Turin (married over 30 years) |
| Children | Three (two sons, one daughter) |
| Grandchildren | Four |
| Net Worth (2025) | $3 million |
| Salary (per episode) | Approximately $50,000 (Gold Rush) |
| Height | 4 feet 9 inches (1.47 m) |
| Weight | 52 kg |
| Social Media | Instagram: @dozer_dave, Twitter: @DaveTurin |
| Business Ventures | Mt. Hood Rock, Nugget Jewelry Line |
| Faith | Christian |
| Hobbies | Hunting, Fishing, Family Time |
Why Dave Turin’s Story Resonates
Dave Turin’s journey from a small-town quarry manager to a global TV star embodies resilience and authenticity. His age and experience bring wisdom to Gold Rush, while his net worth reflects strategic career moves. His married life with Shelly offers a relatable narrative of loyalty, and his salary highlights the lucrative potential of reality TV. Unlike many celebrities, Dave’s focus on family, faith, and mentorship provides a unique angle, inspiring fans to pursue their passions with determination.
For more on Dave’s journey, visit his official website, IMDb profile, or Wikipedia page. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter for the latest updates.
