Behind every successful NASCAR driver stands an exceptional crew chief who can transform raw speed into championship glory. The sport’s history overflows with legendary partnerships that redefined what’s possible on the track: Richard Petty and Dale Inman, Jimmie Johnson and Chad Knaus, Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Kirk Shelmerdine. Each duo proved that when trust meets talent, victories follow.
Now one of NASCAR’s most accomplished crew chiefs finds himself searching for his next opportunity, and his former driver’s inner circle believes he deserves another shot.
How Did Rodney Childers Build His Championship Resume?
Childers began his racing career behind the wheel rather than behind the pit wall. After collecting victories in karts and late models, he competed in the NASCAR Southeast Series and Hooters Pro Cup. However, Childers soon recognized that his true calling lay elsewhere in the sport.
The transition from driver to crew member started in 2003 when Childers joined Penske-Jasper Racing as a mechanic. His talent for understanding race cars became evident quickly. Within one year, the team promoted him to car chief, recognizing his ability to maximize performance under pressure.
In 2005, Childers leaped to crew chief when MB2/MBV Motorsports offered him the opportunity to lead a Cup Series team. The learning curve was steep, but Childers proved he belonged at the highest level. His first Cup Series victory came in 2009 at Michael Waltrip Racing, guiding David Reutimann to victory lane.
The defining moment of Childers’ career arrived in 2014 when Stewart-Haas Racing paired him with Kevin Harvick. Their chemistry was immediate and devastating to the competition. In their very first season together, Childers called the shots that led Harvick to the 2014 Cup Series championship. The partnership lasted nearly a decade, establishing both men as elite competitors in NASCAR’s premier division.
Following Harvick’s retirement after the 2023 season, Childers joined Spire Motorsports, initially serving as crew chief for Corey LaJoie. When that partnership didn’t produce the desired results, the team reassigned Childers to Justin Haley’s No. 7 team. Unfortunately, the chemistry issues persisted, and Spire ultimately released Childers from his contract.
Why Is Kevin Harvick’s Associate Backing Childers for Another Chance?
Currently without a team, Childers recently witnessed Chase Briscoe’s emotional Darlington victory and congratulated the No. 19 driver on social media. When a fan asked if he missed Cup Series racing, Childers’ response revealed the depth of his passion for competition.
“I miss competing, yes, every single day. I miss being a leader like I was good at. I know I can still do it better than most, and I’m more determined now than ever… But if no one is willing to take a chance in the cup garage, I’ll win in whatever I do… He has a plan..”
I miss competing, yes every single day. I miss being a leader like I was good at. I know I can still do it better than most, and I’m more determined now than ever..
But if no one is willing to take a chance in the cup garage, I’ll win in whatever I do…
He has a plan.. ❤️🙏🏼 https://t.co/4tEdOhnvYA
— Rodney Childers (@RodneyChilders4) September 4, 2025
The heartfelt message caught the attention of Mamba Smith, a media personality and co-host of “Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour” show. Smith immediately saw an opportunity for struggling teams to benefit from Childers’ expertise, even if they couldn’t offer a full-time crew chief position.
“If I was a struggling team in the NASCAR space I would hire RC as a consultant for 6-8 month to help our program and install processes to create efficiencies,” wrote Smith.
If I was a struggling team in the NASCAR space I would hire RC as a consultant for 6-8 month to help our program and install processes to create efficiencies. https://t.co/aekqLfBSEV
— Mamba Smith (@MambaSmith34) September 4, 2025
What Makes Childers an Attractive Option for NASCAR Teams?
Childers brings a championship pedigree that few crew chiefs can match. His decade-long partnership with Harvick produced consistent excellence, transforming Stewart-Haas Racing into a championship-caliber organization. The duo’s success wasn’t built on luck but on Childers’ ability to prepare cars that performed when it mattered most.
Beyond the statistics, Childers possesses the leadership qualities that separate good crew chiefs from great ones. His experience managing the pressure of championship fights, combined with his technical knowledge gained from years as a mechanic and car chief, creates a unique skill set. Teams seeking to elevate their performance could benefit significantly from his expertise.
The current NASCAR landscape presents challenges and opportunities for veteran crew chiefs like Childers. While some teams prefer younger voices, others recognize the value of proven leadership. Smith’s suggestion of a consulting role demonstrates creative thinking about how teams might utilize Childers’ talents while managing their existing structures.
As the 2025 season progresses, Childers’ next destination remains uncertain. However, his track record speaks loudly in a sport where results matter most. For a crew chief who helped deliver a championship in his first season with Harvick, the question isn’t whether Childers can still compete at the highest level, but rather which team will be smart enough to give him that opportunity.