Cal Poly Pomona Foundation, Inc. has selected Richard Thompson as the new head brewer for Innovation Brew Works.
As head brewer, Thompson will be responsible for managing the brewing operations, developing new recipes, assisting with brewing classes, providing private tours and building the Innovation Brew Works brand.
In 2014, Thompson earned an international diploma in brewing technology certificate from the Siebel Institute of Technology in Chicago, the oldest brewing school in the United States. The institute has satellite campuses in Munich and Montreal. The brewing program teaches students the sciences and technologies that are used in breweries of all sizes.
“Richard brings with him a solid foundation of formal brewing education and experience to take our educational and brewing program to the next level at Innovation Brew Works,” says Aaron Neilson, director of dining services. “We are excited to have Richard on the team.”
Thompson started experimenting with home brewing in 2004 when he lived in Portland. His part-time hobby eventually grew into a long-term passion.
“I am very passionate about what I do,” says Thompson. “There’s an enormous sense of personal reward and accomplishment that comes from achieving the perfect brew.”
Thompson worked as an assistant brewer at Innovation Brew Works when it first opened in late 2014 before accepting a position at Ritual Brewing Co. in Redlands. He is now back at Innovation Brew Works and is ready to advance the venue.
“I hope to be able to experiment, win awards, build our name as a brewing institution and bring in new customers interested in Innovation Brew Works,” says Thompson.