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

My current title at Big Storm Brewing Co. [in Odessa, Fla.] is assistant brewer. Craft beer had been a passion of mine for years and I figured the best way to be happy was to do something that I had a deep affinity and interest for. I had heard of a brand new craft brewery in the area and decided to take a shot in the dark and email the owners about joining the team. They were insanely generous and decided to try me out. We clicked and history is being made.

What’s new at Big Storm?

Every day something new is happening here. We are in the middle of a significantly large expansion and we are working extremely hard to get every aspect of the brewery ready for the big jump. We brought in a much larger walk-in cooler, a brand new bar and tap system, new tanks are on the way, and we added a couple of awesome people to the team.

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

All the great new friends I’ve made and will continue to make. These people are doing what they love and we’re all having a great time. Of course, all of the great beers don’t hurt!

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

My time is spent mostly trying to relax and spend time with my friends and family. Traveling is a huge thing for me. I go away whenever I can. I also like to read, exercise, and just lie around trying to appreciate my time off.

Name a favorite food and beer pairing?

My favorite pairing is a great milk stout with some great pizza. Preferably Mellow Mushroom! Classic.

What’s your biggest accomplishment unrelated to your job?

Traveling the country playing music. It was an extreme experience with absurd highs and lows that helped mold me into the person I am today and I’m very grateful for the lessons I learned.

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

Anything from Oskar Blues, especially their Deviant Dale’s IPA. Their restaurant is also amazing.

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

Denver, Colo. It’s a well-known spot for every craft beer enthusiast for good reason. There are so many greats there like Avery, Great Divide, Oskar Blues, Left Hand, and so many more. It’s just a cluster of greatness worthy of any vacationing craft beer lover.