What’s your current position at your brewery, and how did you get started in the craft brewing industry?

I am the founder, co-owner, and brewmaster at HiJinx Brewing Company [in Allentown, Pa.]. I began my commercial brewing journey in 1996 as the assistant brewer at Old Lehigh Brewing Company in Allentown. After working for about a year at Old Lehigh, I received an offer from Dan Weirback, founder of Weyerbacher Brewing Company in Easton, Pa., to come work for him as a brewer.

What’s new at HiJinx?

We are actively seeking space and equipment for expansion. We also welcomed Chris Becker on board as a co-owner and brewer.

What’s the best part of being a part of the craft brewing community?

BEER…duh. Aside from that, I have met a large number of great people who share my love of the craft and are willing to help and share their knowledge.

What do you like to do in your time away from the brewery?

When I’m not in the brewery I enjoy spending time with my beautiful and tolerant wife, my two awesome sons, and our many great friends. Some of the activities we enjoy are whitewater rafting, kayaking, disc golf, fishing, backpacking, and playing music. Let’s not forget enjoying craft beer.

What’s your favorite food and beer pairing?

I love too many to pick one. I will say that I most often enjoy hot wings with pale ale, mussels and Belgian blonde ale, and spicy chili and porter.

What’s your biggest accomplishment unrelated to your job?

For the last five years, I have put my heart and soul into planning, gathering funds, and marketing in order to open HiJinx Brewing Company. I would say that creating my job is my biggest accomplishment.

What’s your favorite beer that your brewery does not produce?

Cruel question! That’s like asking a parent which kid they like best. This is a sampling of my “favorites”: Westvleteren 6, Firestone Walker DBA, Thirsty Dog Siberian Night.

What’s the most memorable travel destination at which you’ve had a chance to sample the local beer?

Definitely Belgium. Specifically, drinking Houblon Chouffe with Chris Bauweraerts at La Vieille Forge B&B and enjoying some Gueuze at Cantillon while chatting with Jean Pierre Van Roy.