Dan Norton

Share Post

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

I am head brewer at River City Brewing Co. [in Wichita, Kan.].  I got my start here as the assistant brewer in 2000. Call it “right place at the right time,” as I had moved all around the country trying to find my place in life.  Raised in the great state of Michigan, I attended four different collegiate institutions in three different states, and wound up here in Wichita of all places.  The first place I applied for a job was here at the brewery.  In 2001, our head brewer moved to Kansas City.  Owners and management identified my passion for craft brewing and offered me the job.  It’s been 10 years, and they are gonna have to kick me out of here now!

What’s new at River City?

We recently replaced our mash tun and brew kettle with a new Newlands NSI setup! Platform and all, no more standing on ladders and buckets!

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

Not many people can say they make beer for a living, and the community as a whole is a very welcoming, friendly, helpful, insightful group of artisan men and women.

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

Spend time with my family.  My kids keep me young at heart and on my toes!

What’s your favorite food and beer pairing?

In the winter, nothing beats a brown ale and some stew.  In the summer, IPAs and spicy chicken dishes!

What’s your biggest accomplishment unrelated to your job?

My children.  They are my inspiration, and if I can raise them to be thoughtful, considerate, respectful, hard-working adults, that will be my greatest accomplishment!

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

I’m kind of partial to Bell’s, as they are the brewery that taught me about “good beer.”  Two Hearted Ale in the summer, and Expedition Stout in the winter!

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

GABF in Denver.  Great environment, great local beer, as well as the country’s best breweries and beer all under one roof!


Submit Your Member Profile

The Brewers Association would like to recognize as many small and independent U.S. craft brewers as possible, from bottling line technicians to brewers and CEOs.

Submit your profile today!