Justin "JTP" Pawlak started drifting in late 2005 attending his first event, Industry Drift Day, with his self built 1989 Mazda Rx7. In 2006 he took on the best drifters in Socal winning his first competition, JustDrift Rd. 1, during the 2006 season opener. After winning the 2006 JustDrift series and receiving his Formula D and D1GP pro licenses later that year, Justin decided to take a year to build his car and hone his skills before committing to a full Formula D season in 2008. During his rookie season in 2008 Justin was able to get on the podium twice, with a win at the invitational event in Monterrey, Mexico and during the final event of the season at Irwindale Speedway earning a third place finish, finishing his rookie season in 16th place. 2009 was a transitional period for JTP, being the first year he would drive for someone other than himself. During this season he learned having a ride might not all that it's cracked up to be, but he took with him many things to be aware of in becoming a "professional" driver. In 2010 JTP found a home with Team Falken Tire, driving the 2010 teal and blue Falken Tire Ford Mustang. During this season Justin focused on driver feedback and becoming a more consistent driver. Working with Team Falken and the ASD crew he learned more about being competitive than in the past 2 years combined. Although he finished the season in 11th place, he walked away ready to take on a new car for 2011 and a shot at the 2011 series championship.