What’s your current position at your brewery, and how did you get started in the craft brewing industry?
I am the owner and founder of Mastry’s Brewing Co. in St. Petersburg, Fla. I got into the industry through my mechanical engineering and contracting background as I worked in the design/build of process cooling and cold storage.

What’s new at Mastry’s?
Packaging is new for us at the brewery. We recently launched our first 12-ounce six-pack into the market.

What’s the best part of being a part of the craft brewing community?
My favorite part of the industry has always been the people who work in it. So much passion and collaboration.

Name a favorite food and beer pairing.
A great spice blend curry and traditional pub ale or a nice farmhouse saison with charcuterie.

What’s your biggest accomplishment unrelated to your job?
The addition of our new son to our family. He is my first and without a doubt my best accomplishment. There really isn’t anything like being a dad.

What’s your favorite beer from another brewery?
I’m just such a fan of craft beer and so many of the new beers coming out. The first brewery that really made an impression on me about 11 years back was Unibroue with La Fin Du Monde, A Tout Le Monde, and Terrible.

What do you like to do in your time away from the brewery?
Family time is where it’s really at for me. Other than that, I’m a big gearhead. Whether it’s cars or bikes, I love working on them, going to shows, and riding when I get a chance.

What’s the most memorable travel destination at which you’ve had a chance to sample the local beer?
My first visits to the more veteran craft beer towns like Denver, Portland, and Asheville. The beer scene is so mature with the diversity in beer styles, and the beers that brewers are really passionate about align with consumers’ palates.