People

Executive Leadership

President, Dan Helms, provides the direction, strategic planning and day to day operation of the business to ensure a successful, growing and sustainable operations.

  • Dan Helms

    CEO & President

    404 637 2028

    Born and raised in Atlanta, Dan graduated from the University of Georgia in 1986 with a BBA degree in Finance. Following graduation, he was employed by Automatic Data Processing serving in sales and sales management. Dan joined Conveyors & Drives in July of 1993 as an Inside Sales Associate and has since worked in C&D’s Warehouse Operation, Systems Sales and Dealer Sales.

    In his current role, Dan is responsible for the overall direction, strategic planning and day to day operation of the business. He works closely with C&D’s customers, partners and employee associates to help ensure a successful, growing and sustainable business organization.

    Dan has been married to his wife Cathy for 28 years. They have three children: Jamieson, Jessica and Ashley, two grandchildren and two dogs Amelia and Gracie. In his spare time, he enjoys playing tennis and grilling out with family and friends. Dan is also an avid Atlanta Falcons and college football fan.


  • Jon Smalling

    Director of Sales, Marketing & Service

    404 637 2026

    Jon Smalling joined C&D as Director of Sales and Marketing in March of 2023. His main responsibilities include overseeing all sales and marketing efforts with the sales team and maintaining a strong relationship with our vendors.

    Before joining Conveyors & Drives, Jon’s experiences encompassed a wide range of plastic industry industrial automation applications within countless manufacturing industries. Professionally, Jon has previously volunteered as Chair of the PLASTICS Industry Association’s Future Leaders in Plastics (FLiP), served on the PIA Equipment Council, and served on the NPE trade show content committee.

    Personally, Jon lives in Acworth, GA with his wife, three sons, and three dogs. In his spare time, Jon volunteers as Assistant Scout Master with his son’s Troop. Jon loves to camp, attend Kennesaw State athletic events, and work on his VW Karmann Ghia.


  • Ali Gowen

    Inside Sales Manager

    404 637 2018

    Ali Gowen joined C&D in the Insides Sales Team and also served as the Service Team Coordinator since July 2018. She currently manages the Inside Sales Team.

    In her multiple positions, she has advanced due to a combination of hard work, company knowledge and results. Ali is a firm believer in leading by example and moving the Inside Sales team to be more proactive in assisting customers.

    During Ali’s 25+ year career in Customer Service and Inside Sales, she brings 12 years of leadership skills to our team. Before joining Conveyors & Drives, she worked at Georgia Lighting/World Imports, Hettich America and International Freight Forwarders,  Inc.

    Ali and her husband David enjoy traveling, being outdoors and spending time with family and their Grandchildren.


  • Wanda Stevenson

    Accounting Manager

    404 637 2023

    Wanda Stevenson joined C&D in January 2022 as a Staff Accountant and now serves as our Senior Accountant.

    With over 30 years of comprehensive experience in the accounting industry and her MBA. Wanda is in charge of the health of C&D by optimizing our financial processes, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance while providing management with insight to make crucial decisions.

    Wanda is from Jackson, TN and formerly worked for the State of Georgia prior to coming to C&D.

    She is married with two adult children and a new granddaughter that she loves to spoil.


  • Richard Gurell

    Engineering Manager

    404 637 2021

    With over 23 years of experience, Richie has been in the food, chemical, and building materials industries providing material handling and packaging solutions. After joining C&D in November of 2023 as Sr. Systems Engineer, he has now assumed the role of Engineering Manager and is excited to lead the team in their growth for years to come.

    Richie thrives on tackling complex challenges and developing innovative automation solutions to improve efficiency and productivity. He believes that automation has the power to transform industries and is dedicated to finding creative ways to solve problems and drive progress.

    When not working, he enjoys playing music, tennis, and spending time with his family.


  • Paul Nugent

    Service Manager

    404 637 2005

    Paul Nugent is our Field Service Manager and started with C&D in July of 2023 as an Inside Sales Representative. His duties include scheduling and overseeing preventative maintenance and emergency repairs for conveyors and other material handling systems.

    Paul has years of experience in Industrial Sales and Construction Project Management. His Alma Matter is Kennesaw State University with an Associate’s from Georgia Highlands College.

    Paul lives in west Georgia with his wife, three boys, two tree frogs, and a dog. In his free-time Paul enjoys playing music with his family, working on cars, and fishing.


Outside Sales & Operations

Our Outside Sales and Operations team, led by Jon Smalling, specializes in building strong customer relationships and driving innovative material handling solutions. This dynamic group is dedicated to identifying and developing new business opportunities while maintaining and enhancing service for existing accounts. Collaborating closely with our engineering team, they design and implement customized systems that optimize efficiency and productivity for our clients. Whether you're looking to streamline processes or expand capabilities, our Outside Sales & Operations team ensures your material handling challenges are met with precision and expertise.

  • Jennifer Walker

    Operations & Sales Coordinator

    404 637 2002


  • John Clark

    Territory Sales Manager

    404 637 2043

    Territory: North West GA, North Alabama and West Tennessee


  • Ty Gallishaw

    Territory Sales Manager

    404 637 2029

    Territory: Metro Atlanta, Southwest GA and South Carolina


  • Rusty Johnson

    Warehouse Manager

    404-637-2006


Inside Sales

Our Inside Sales team, led by Ali Gowen, is the backbone of our customer support, ensuring seamless communication and rapid response to your needs. This dedicated group provides expert phone support, coordinates the prompt delivery of parts and equipment, and addresses customer inquiries with speed and accuracy. Whether you're seeking replacement parts, new equipment, or solutions to service challenges, our Inside Sales team is committed to delivering exceptional service and ensuring your operations run smoothly.

Systems Group Applications Engineering, Implementation and Project Management

C&D's Systems Group drives the success of world-class engineered projects from start to finish. Specializing in Applications Engineering, Implementation, and Project Management, this team partners with clients to bring innovative material handling systems to life. From initial design concepts to project commissioning, they ensure every detail is meticulously planned and executed. Whether you’re developing a new facility or optimizing existing operations, the Systems Group combines cutting-edge engineering expertise with seamless project management to deliver solutions that meet and exceed your goals.

Finance

Our Finance team, led by Wanda Stevenson, ensures the financial health and operational efficiency of our organization. This team expertly handles all accounting functions, maintaining accurate financial records and adhering to the highest standards of compliance. From managing credit authorizations to overseeing clerical and administrative tasks, they provide the critical support needed to keep our operations running smoothly. Whether processing transactions or assisting with customer inquiries, our Finance team is dedicated to delivering precision, reliability, and excellent service.

Emeritus Executive Leadership

Our Emeritus Executive Leadership team represents the legacy and vision that have shaped our company’s success. Comprising experienced leaders who have guided us through years of growth and innovation, this group remains a vital source of wisdom and strategic insight. While no longer involved in day-to-day operations, their enduring contributions and mentorship continue to inspire our team and reinforce the values that define our company. Their commitment to excellence and innovation serves as a cornerstone for our ongoing success in the material handling industry.

  • Gary Ashley

    Founder- Retired


    Gary Ashely - CEO

    Gary, a founding member of Conveyors & Drives, played a pivotal role in shaping the company and served as the CEO and Board Chairman. Throughout his tenure, Gary was responsible for the overall financial integrity of the organization, overseeing financial management and spearheading special projects that drove the company’s success.

    A native of Atlanta, Gary graduated from Georgia Tech in 1959. He began his career as a sales engineer with Boston Gear Works and later with Fulton Supply Company of Atlanta. In 1969, Gary, along with two partners, founded Conveyors & Drives, laying the foundation for its future growth and achievements.

    Gary is a dedicated Georgia Tech fan who has a passion for photography and enjoys collecting and operating model trains. He cherishes spending time with his five grandchildren. Gary resides in Dunwoody, Georgia with his wife Judy and their two dogs, Annie and Max.

    Gary retired from Conveyors & Drives in March 2021, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, leadership, and innovation.