I decided in Oct 2011 that I was going to pursue a career in beer. In 15 months I have interned at a brewery, brewed a few batches of my own beer, earned the title of Certified Cicerone ®, served the public at a well known beer-bar in the Sacramento area, poured at beer festivals, and discussed potential career moves with the likes of such beer royalty as Ray Daniels, Randy Mosher, Lauren Salazar, Mary Pelletieri, Lynn Kruger, Sean Paxton, and with various breweries and famous beer bars.
This is not simply me patting myself on the back. My intent is to illustrate that in a year I have had the opportunity to dive into the deep end of the beer world. Although I may not be gainfully employed at the time of this writing, I can say I have had many doors open through the work I have put in and even if I decided to change industries now I would be happy with my progress. This is only the beginning for me, however, and I intend to use my experiences and contacts to continue to grow and advance.
So what did I do and what would I have done different?
1) EDUCATION
Read. A lot. Pick up books by the likes of Jackson, Strong, Zainasheff, Palmer, Daniels, Mosher, and others. Take advantage of audio books and podcasts as well. Consider taking a class as well. I took the time (and a ton of money) to attend short-courses at U.C. Davis (Davis, CA) and Siebel Institute (Chicago, IL) in order to reinforce the ideas I had been reading about. It was a pleasure being able to discuss the industry with people from all over the world over a pint.
2) CERTIFICATION
Utilize the great folks at Cicerone.org and other online groups offering online and sit-down certifications. They look great on your resume and although you may know lots of people who know more about beer who don't have a piece of paper to prove it...when it comes to proving it you can and they can't.
3) VOLUNTEER
Every brewery needs someone to scrub their tanks and mop their floors. Do it. Don't get discouraged if they tell you they can't allow interns. For many it can be a liability and their insurance won't cover you if you sustain any injuries. Offer to sign a waiver and keep looking.
If I had the opportunity to live 2012 again I would do much of it the same but I would also homebrew a hell of a lot more. I would also get into hosting some smaller private tastings (a project I am working on now). I'm also looking at investing in a Brewer's Association membership whenever I have $155 I am willing to spend.
In the end you might find yourself in the same boat at me (seeking employment) but you will have a level of confidence and a solid resume you can use as leverage at your next interview.
In conclusion... if you know anybody looking to hire a professional beer snob have them hit me up.
