6 Questions With Alex...
This is our chance to get to know someone better who is working in the craft beer industry in Western Canada.
1. Who are you?
Hello! I’m Alex (he/him), a queer beer-loving nerd! I grew up in Victoria but moved to Vancouver 8 years ago, and couldn’t imagine moving away from the west coast. If I’m not making beer (either at work or homebrewing), you’ll usually catch me drinking a pint or 3 while playing D&D or Rock Band! (Yes, the video game with the plastic instruments. Yes, I DO know how cool I am.)
2. What do you do?
I just graduated from the KPU Brewing and Brewery Operations program (with a scholarship from DIB!!), and for the past year I have worked at Mariner Brewing as a production assistant! For the previous 13 years I was a movie theatre manager, but decided to do a complete career change and go to school for something I was way more passionate about, making beer!! I love working at Mariner because the small team means that I have my hands in every process on the production side. Never a dull day!!
3. What is your biggest pet peeve about the industry?
I feel like IPAs get way too much attention, I want to see more craft stouts!! (please)
4. What do you love most about working in the industry?
I love that the beer brewing process is so science based. Even though beer itself has been made for thousands of years, there is a greater understanding of the process now than ever before. More knowledge means more advancements, which means new methods, new yeasts, new malt, new beer! I love the thought that I am working in an industry that I can keep learning (and drinking) new things.
5. What is your favourite beer right now?
Well my fridge is currently stocked with Mariner’s new Mango Passionfruit Sour, which I highly recommend, but for a non-work beer I have a huge soft spot for anything nitro at Bakery! (Currently their Irish Red and Espresso Breakfast Stout, yum.)
6. What local charity should we be paying attention to?
I think Saige Community Food Bank is always doing amazing work. The East Van food bank provides a no barrier safe space for transgender, gender non-conforming or queer individuals with access to healthy foods. They are even doing some online community events due to covid. Check them out!
Follow Alex on Instagram @redbicyclefish