THE FEMALE BREWERS OF WATERLOO BREWING
To celebrate International Women's Day we sat down with our Director of Brewing, Trish Benne, along with brewers Elizabeth Beresford and Ciel Crosbie to ask them what it's like to be a woman in beer.
Q. WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO BECOME A BREWER?
Trish: I jumped into brewing when I was finishing up University. I had a great opportunity to learn about all aspects of beer materials and production. I got hooked on the industry because it’s so present in so many of my social activities. I really enjoy being able to combine my work with other parts of my life.
Elizabeth: I've wanted to become a brewer for a while. I always loved going to breweries and drinking new beers so I figured I should do what I love.
Ciel: Aside from a love of craft beer, I've always been a creative person who enjoys physical work. This gives me the freedom to create without being confined to a desk!
Q. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN LOOKING TO START IN THIS INDUSTRY?
Trish: Beer is for women too! I believe we bring a very valuable skillset to the Brewing industry. Although it can be very male-dominated, but there’s lots of room for women here. Like anything, you need to prove yourself – but I do feel like a lot of walls are starting to come down and that women do very well here.
Elizabeth: Do it, it's a lot of fun and you'll meet so many great people and drink so many great beers!
Ciel: You are strong and capable. Your contribution matters and you will bring a unique dynamic to any team!
Q. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE A WOMAN IN BEER?
Trish: I’ve approached all challenges with the mindset of “I can do this”, and I’m proud of everything I’ve accomplished.
Elizabeth: I feel proud, some of the first brewers were women and I am happy to carry on their tradition.
Ciel: I've always been proud of my work and my involvement with craft beer. It is definitely a male dominated industry, but I feel respected by my peers, and hope to inspire more women to join the trade!
Q. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WATERLOO BREW?
Trish: Craft Lager!
Elizabeth: Waterloo dark 🍻
Ciel: I really love Waterloo Amber; though a strong beer, it's versatile and easy to drink.
Thank you to all of the hard-working, inspirational women of Waterloo Brewing that we have the honour of working alongside every day making delicious craft beer. This one’s for you!