Every builder talks about passion. Few live it every single day like Chris Pate. From mastering custom truck interiors to running a 30,000-square-foot tech powerhouse in Texas, Chris proves that innovation, grit, and family can actually coexist inside the same shop.

I sat down with Chris fresh off his big Triple Crown win to talk about how he built one of the industry’s most respected shops, the technology that sets MTI apart, and why keeping family in the business keeps everything grounded.

This one’s packed with insight for anyone chasing excellence in car audio, interiors, and craftsmanship that lasts.

"We feel like we built the best truck interior we’ve ever done to this point." – Chris Pate

In This Episode:

- The story behind the award-winning ’75 C10 and the team that brought it to life

- How MTI went from a 2,000-square-foot startup to a 30,000-square-foot powerhouse

- 3D printers, CNCs, and the manufacturing side of MTI

- Early influences, his father’s Syclone, and how tinkering shaped his path

- The moment Chris knew he’d made it as an industry standout

- Why OEMs are dropping the ball by not hiring elite custom builders

- NCST Rapid Fire Questions

- Chris’s go to vendors for leather, materials, and plastics

- Call for skilled trimmers and stitchers to join the MTI team

- Challenges of the current economy as a high-end shop owner

- What’s coming in the future

Connect with MTI Acoustics:

- Website: https://www.mtiacoustics.net/  

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mtiacoustics/ 

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet:

- Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/ 

- Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/ 

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/