Mixing with brewing experts

Dan Thomas, a recent graduate from Otago Brew School, has enjoyed a rare opportunity to mix with industry experts.

Dan was awarded an Otago Brew School scholarship to take part as a guest judge in the 2024 New World Beer and Cider Awards, held in Auckland recently.

As part of a 28-strong judging panel, Dan sampled about 600 brews from 100 local and international beverage makers.

“It was a great learning experience,” reflects Dan, who graduated with a New Zealand Certificate in Brewing (Level 4) from the Cromwell Campus-based programme late last year.

Boasting a resume that includes aircraft engineering, adventure tourism and landscaping, Dan was attracted to brewing because of its mix of technical skills and creativity.

He enjoyed the mix of practical and theory and particularly liked the “hands-on” work experience at other breweries.

"Getting real-world experience has been great."