NC faculty continue to lead and guide Ontario’s beer scene, with the news that Brewmaster professor Adrian Popowycz has been named chair of Ontario Craft Brewers’ (OCB) technical committee.
Ontario Craft Brewers is an association of over 80 small, independent brewers in Ontario. Ontario Craft Brewers employ over 2,200 people in Ontario, accounting for over 30 per cent of the direct brewing industry jobs in the province.
As chair of the technical committee, Popowycz is responsible for handling and advising the OCB on technical, quality and safety matters and serves as a technical liaison with government. This is the second time Popowycz has held the role.
“Adrian helped the OCB through some of our early technical challenges and helped boost the identity our fledging association of brewers with his focus on helping all our members improve their quality systems,” said Scott Simmons, president of the Ontario Craft Brewers.
“Elevating brewing quality has always been a key motivator for me,” said Popowycz. “It is this passion that led me to being involved with the OCB Technical Committee in the first place. This drive also convinced me serve as Chair of NC’s Brewing Program PAC (Professional Advisory Committee) and subsequently into teaching. I am extremely excited to be back within the OCB fold and lending whatever contributions I can.”
The appointment provides an avenue through which Niagara College faculty can provide additional support and technical expertise to the growing craft brewing industry in Ontario.
“Adrian is highly respected in the industry and his appointment to this role is a credit to him and his vast knowledge and experience,” said Gary Torraville, associate dean in the School of Food and Wine Sciences. “We are pleased to continue fostering a strong relationship with Ontario Craft Brewers and the broader brewing community through this appointment.”
