Gary Aslin

Chris Van Steyn

Duane Smith

Ruben Santacruz

Wyatt Dillard

Shane Potter

At Aslin Automation, we are more than just a business; we are a group of passionate pioneers guided by a common objective of engineering excellence. With a rich heritage since our inception on July 21st, 2015, our pioneering spirit has redefined the industry of automation and custom machine manufacturing thanks to the visionary guidance of Gary Aslin, our President and CEO.

Gary Aslin's successful 24-year tenure in custom machine manufacturing has been filled with noteworthy milestones such as leading projects from concept to delivery, overseeing design, manufacturing, programming, and more. His charismatic and authoritative nature has enabled the organization to flourish, unifying a team of experts with a combined experience of 230 years.

Kimberley Hughes, Finance Manager - Joined Aslin Automation in 2022, bringing years of business experience from varied fields. Kim holds a B.S. in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from California State University, East Bay. Kim manages payroll, A/R, A/P, HR, Safety training, Sales and Use Tax, and myriad administrative duties for Aslin Automation. Kim is always the first point of contact for any customer and always provides them with exemplary, personalized service.

Todd Littlefield, General Manager, Mechanical Engineer - Joined AAI in 2019 as a Mechanical Design Engineer. Todd holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California, Davis. Being mechanically inclined, coupled with his unique skill set, Todd quickly elevated to the position of Operations Manager in 2022. Todd is responsible for all aspects of conceptualizing, designing, managing, assembly, and delivery of the custom machinery produced at Aslin Automation.  In addition, Todd’s ability to manage projects, communicate effectively in a team environment, and view the holistic image of the company’s operations make him uniquely suited to hold critical timelines. Todd also manages the priorities through the shop, delegates resources towards tasks, and helps to guide efficient processes throughout the life of all projects at Aslin Automation. His vibrant approach adds another layer of innovation to the organization's pursuit of excellence.

Kyle Williams, Mechanical Engineer - Joined AAI in January of 2021. Kyle holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from San Diego State University. Kyle has come to play an integral part in designing, developing, building, programming, and testing our custom machines. With in-depth knowledge of pneumatic systems, robotics, HMI/PLC programming, sensors, and other aspects of machine controls, Kyle can provide efficient solutions to the development of processes and products.

Chris Van Steyn, Senior Mechanical Engineer - Joined AAI in April of 2023. Chris holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California, Davis. Chris started his career as a mechanic/fabricator after graduating from Wyotech technical college with a focus on chassis fabrication, engine building, and sheet metal fabrication. After 10 years of building hot rods and race bikes, he went back to school for engineering. Combining his degree and hands on approach, Chris has executed projects in the retail, aerospace, automotive, and automation sectors. At AAI, as our Senior Mechanical Engineer, Chris excels in custom machine design, design for manufacturing, and project management.

Duane Smith, Senior Technician - Having worked in the field of automated machinery design and production for the past twenty-one years, Duane brings a wealth of talents to Aslin Automation. As the Senior Technician, Duane engages in all aspects of electrical control design, procurement, and manufacturing of the electrical requirements of the various automated, semi-automated machines produced at Aslin Automation. Duane’s talents also include machining and fabrication skills required for the assembly, start-up and troubleshooting of equipment that may include a combination of electromechanical, safety, and complicated pneumatical systems. In addition to the development of new equipment, Duane manages and satisfies a maintenance contract with a Fortune 500 company.

Ruben Santacruz, Senior Machinist - Joined Aslin Automation in 2022 as a journeyman machinist with over 20 years of experience in machining and CNC programming. Throughout his career, Ruben has manufactured parts with precision and accuracy in both a production and prototyping setting.  Ruben is responsible for the setup, operation, and maintenance of a variety of machines at Aslin Automation, including lathes and manual or CNC mills. Ruben’s understanding of material properties, tolerances, tool life, and fixturing make him a valuable asset to the operations within the machine shop.

Wyatt Dillard, Welder/Fabricator - Joined AAI in 2023. Wyatt holds an A.S. in Welding Technologies from Las Positas College, Livermore. Wyatt has been welding for 10 years, including maintaining metalwork for the Alameda County Fairgrounds. Wyatt has a great understanding of automobiles, as he often works on them as a hobby and he used to work at a Hot Rod shop. At Aslin Automation, Inc. Wyatt is responsible for assembling or fabricating mechanical parts, frames, and machines using a variety of tools and equipment.

Shane Potter, Controls Technician -