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!