Dotter is a second generation driver who began his racing career at the age of sixteen in the Chicago, Illinois area. He won 23-Late Model features in his rookie year and went on to win numerous division championships. In 1982 Dotter moved to the now defunct ASA Touring Series.From there he was promoted to the NASCAR Busch Series where he claimed 1-win and finished 5th in point's driving the DeWalt Tools team car. In 2000 Dotter drove to victory lane in 4 of the 12 races he ran in the Winston West Series. He finished 2nd in the points standings that year. 2001 Dotter debuted in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, where he finished 15th in the overall championship standings.

Over a gradual progression Dotter moved from driver to team owner and team manager. Dotter heads up the day to day operations of the SS Racing -Green Light Racing Joint-Venture that was formed this year. And is also the primary crew chief for Driver Jason White and the GunBroker.com Dodge Team. Dotter is known in the garage area as a talented racer both inside and outside the car and one of the long-time well respected faces in NASCAR.
 
"It was just a one-race deal to fill in for Jason. Driving is far from my focus these days," said Dotter. "But once you've been a racer there is always a piece of you that enjoys getting behind the wheel and going around a track. I don't think that ever fully goes away. But we're looking forward to getting Jason back in the seat and continuing the momentum we've been building."