Awardee Voices: Celebrating the Art of Brewing
Immersing oneself in the craft beer industry reveals layers of art, science, and community. Jocelyn Becker, Lead Brewer at Austin Beer Works in Texas, shared her awe-inspiring journey at Yakima’s hop farms. Her experiences drinking fresh hop beers amid expansive Citra fields and witnessing cutting-edge hop science transformed her understanding of brewing. Similarly, Zack Day from Funkytown Brewery in Chicago highlighted the industry’s intricate web of connections—from hop farmers to beer enthusiasts—underscoring the deep relationships that define this thriving community.
In Atlanta, Joel Franklin from Wood Foot Beer Co. found inspiration in the fertile soil and dedicated hands of hop harvesters, propelling his vision of growth in the brewing industry. Meanwhile, Juleidy Peña from Notch Brewing in Salem, Massachusetts, praised the foundation’s efforts in mentorship and industry networking. Jorge Santana of Brix City Brewing in Jersey City reflected on the unforgettable opportunity to join a select group of brewers in exploring Yakima’s rich landscape of hops, breweries, and unexpected friendships.
Fostering Growth: The Vision Beyond Scholarships
Since its inception, over 60 individuals have benefited from the Michael James Jackson Foundation (MJF), gaining invaluable education in brewing and distilling. Visionary founder Garrett Oliver envisioned a mission that transcends scholarships, aiming to provide mentorship, visibility, and comprehensive experiences that catalyze long-standing success. One shining example of this vision is the immersive Yakima trip, bolstered by mentorship and media training programs that empower awardees to rise to leadership roles and influence the industry.
The MJF’s ethos of interconnectedness extends beyond its members, inviting collaborations with initiatives like the Lovibond Project. By facilitating opportunities for early-career brewers, the foundation solidifies its role as a platform for industry-wide growth and collaboration. Its commitment to uplifting diverse voices in craft beer and distilling serves as a beacon of innovation and inclusion.
About The Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing & Distilling
Founded in 2020, The Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing & Distilling is dedicated to providing technical education scholarships for people of color in the brewing and distilling industries. In honor of the legendary writer Michael Jackson, the foundation seeks to enact lasting industry change by nurturing talent and fostering professional development for historically underrepresented groups. For more information, BreweriesNearMe.us and the MJF are supportive allies in this mission, propelling craft beer lovers across America into the heart of the brewery world.
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