ABOUT US
A Company Built on Relationships
At Appalachian Contracting, building homes has never just been about construction—it’s about the people, the trust, and the relationships built along the way. For over 36 years, we’ve been a part of this community, crafting homes with integrity, care, and a commitment to doing things the right way.
When Beau Hughes stepped into ownership, he wasn’t just taking over a business—he was continuing something bigger. Having worked alongside Jim Combs for years, he saw firsthand that great building isn’t just about materials and blueprints. It’s about the families who will live in these homes, the conversations along the way, and the trust that makes it all possible. That’s something worth preserving.
As Appalachian Contracting moves forward, that same commitment—to quality, relationships, and doing right by people—remains at the heart of everything we do.
Our History
Appalachian Contracting Services was built on a foundation of hard work, integrity, a commitment to quality craftsmanship and building relationships. In 1988, Jim and Nancy Combs started this company with a simple but powerful belief—that building homes is about building trust.
For over 36 years, Jim poured his expertise into every project, earning a reputation for honest work, strong relationships, and homes that stand the test of time. Meanwhile, Nancy kept the business running smoothly behind the scenes, ensuring that Appalachian Contracting remained as solid as the homes it built.
As time went on, Jim knew that finding the right person to carry on the company’s legacy wasn’t just about skill—it was about finding someone who shared the same values. After years of searching, he found that in Beau Hughes. Having worked alongside Jim for years, Beau understood that Appalachian Contracting was more than just a business—it was a commitment to the community, to quality, and to the people who put their trust in us.
In 2022, Beau officially took ownership, carrying forward the same dedication that Jim and Nancy instilled from day one. Today, Appalachian Contracting continues to serve North Georgia with the same principles it was founded on: honest craftsmanship, strong relationships, and a promise to build not just homes, but lasting legacies.
Beau Hughes
Owner and President
Beau Hughes became the proud owner and President of Appalachian Contracting Services in 2023, building on years of expertise and a passion for exceptional craftsmanship. A State-licensed Residential-Light Commercial Contractor and certified EarthCraft Builder, Beau began his career as a carpenter in home remodeling before transitioning into commercial construction project management. Over time, he discovered his love for custom new home building, where his attention to detail and dedication to quality set him apart.
A graduate of the University of North Georgia, Beau brings both technical expertise and a commitment to sustainable building practices to every project. When he’s not working, he enjoys spending time with his wife Rachel and their son Teddy, embracing the values of home and family that inspire his work.
Meet Our Team
At Appalachian Contracting, we believe that good work starts with good people. Over the years, we’ve built more than homes—we’ve built a team that trusts and respects one another, just as much as our clients trust us. The people who work with us aren’t just skilled professionals; they’re craftsmen and problem-solvers who take pride in what they do and who they do it for.
A strong foundation isn’t just important in construction—it’s what holds a team together. We’ve built a company where relationships matter—within our crew, with the tradesmen and partners we work alongside, and with the homeowners who invite us into their lives. For us, building isn’t just about the end result. It’s about the process, the people, and the connections made along the way. That’s what makes this work meaningful.
Renee Conaway Business Manager
Renee joined the company in 2015 and has since taken over the business management side of Appalachian Contracting Services. A graduate of Georgia Southern University, Renee also completed the paralegal certification from Emory University and the project management training program through the University of North Georgia. She drafts our contracts and handles our accounts receivable and payable as well as our bookkeeping, advertising, and marketing. She also manages the plumbing service scheduling.
When not at the office, Renee enjoys working with the Bear on the Square Mountain Festival and the 6 Gap Century Bike Ride. She is an avid reader and loves to travel.
Jim Combs
Founder and Vice President
For more than three decades, Jim Combs has been a driving force in the construction industry, combining technical expertise with a client-focused approach. His career spans building materials sales, hands-on construction, and business leadership, giving him a broad range of experience and knowledge.
Jim’s exceptional attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and eye for design have helped him build lasting relationships with clients and a record of near-perfect satisfaction. As the founder of Appalachian Contracting, Jim established the company’s core values of honesty, integrity and the pursuit of excellence—principles that continue to guide the team today.
Tyler Kropp Project Manager
After working with Jim and Beau previously on various projects Tyler finally joined the company in 2024. Being the son of a successful contractor, Tyler’s appreciation of the construction industry began at an early age. Through years of hands-on experience and a wealth of information learned on the job he has discovered a specific passion for custom home building and remodeling. Tyler graduated from the University of North Georgia with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management.
From there, his experience ranges from project manager for a semi-custom home builder, residential remodeling project manager, siding and roofing project manager, and owning a siding and carpentry company. When not at work he loves spending meaningful time with his beautiful wife, son, and daughter.
TESTIMONIALS
Client Success Stories: Hear What Our Clients Say
"Appalachian Contracting built our dream retirement home. The quality of their work is surpassed only by the integrity of the owners and employees. They are true artisans who expertly turn vision into reality. "
Susan R
"I used this company to add an extension to my home. They were extremely professional and tidy workers. I have no hesitation in recommending Appalachian contractors to anyone looking fo quality work."
Louise R
"Our experience with Appalachian Contracting Services was extremely pleasant. Their building expertise was of the finest quality. Everyone on the job was polite and as well as experienced."
Janet G
Joe Michaelsen
Project Manager
Joe started with the company in 1999 as a laborer performing jobs like digging, moving materials, and cleaning up. He learned everything he could on the job and through classes to work his way up to Project Manager. Joe is now a Marvin Windows Certified Installer, a Navien and Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Certified Technician, and has completed classes in erosion control and other aspects of construction. Joe is now the go-to project manager for kitchen and bath remodels, deck builds, and restaurant build-outs.
When Joe isn’t keeping our clients happy, he can be found tinkering with his Jeep, decorating for the holidays, or warming his toes in the sand on a beach.