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

I am owner and co-founder [of Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. in Buellton, Calif.] My father and I have been planning this venture for over 13 years and finally pulled the trigger to achieve our dream of owning/operating our own brewery.

What’s new at Figueroa Mountain?

We opened this Thanksgiving with four new craft beers on tap.

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

The freedom to dream and make people happy.

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

Go hiking in the Figueroa Mountains.

What’s your favorite food and beer pairing?

Our Davy Brown Ale and a succulent prime rib.

What’s your biggest accomplishment unrelated to your job?

Being a father, without a doubt.

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

The Lost Abbey’s Lost and Found.

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

Heidelberg, Germany