Accelerate April 2021 Magazine

WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG Tell us a little bit about yourself. I’m 37 years old, married and have a seven-year-old son. In my free time I enjoy the outdoors, cooking, concerts and walking my dog. I have been with Raised Grain Brewing for five years. Why did you decide to get involved with the trades? I was looking for a new job and was struggling to find something in forestry. The majority of my family is in the area so I really wasn't looking to relocate. I knew that there were good opportunities in the trades as I worked as a commercial painter to help myself through college. What led you to your current career path? I truly just fell into it. I was working for the state parks and was able to get a part-time job with Raised Grain when they first opened. I was an avid homebrewer at the time and I told them I would do anything to learn how to brew better. They invited me to one brew and I continued showing up as much as possible. I was able to turn that experience into a brewers apprentice position, and have worked my way up to be the head brewer. What is the hardest part about being in the trades? I would say that it can be physically demanding at times, and that there are long days. We have to see a batch through to completion no matter how long it takes. What’s your favorite part about your job? There are a number of things that I really enjoy about my job. I love being able to be creative and come up with new flavors and ideas. I love knowing that we put out a quality product that people enjoy. Watching people come together and enjoying our beers always puts a smile on my face. I enjoy the challenge of having to troubleshoot problems and come up with solutions on the fly. And who doesn’t enjoy a nice cold one after a hard day's work? What would you say to someone who wants to get involved with the trades? There are lots of great career opportunities because there is such a variety of work. Look for something that interests you and then learn more about it. Traditional four-year college isn’t for everybody and it certainly isn’t the only option. See what opportunities are available at your local technical college. Where do you see yourself going in the future? I was born and raised here in Waukesha and am happy to provide a fun place for the community to gather. I would like to stay with Raised Grain for as long as possible. • SPOTLIGHT ON THE TRADES ANDY HOLLANDER Head Brewer Raised Grain Brewing Company 26