Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management student Coleton Willis is wrapping up the year with a sense of joy and accomplishment, thanks to the recognition of his award-winning beer Triple Pink Elephant.
On December 13, Willis earned the first-place spot at the 25th edition of Project Brew, a student-run beer festival competition held at the end of each term that showcases the graduation projects of Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management students.
Reflecting on this recent achievement and participation in Project Brew, Willis expressed his gratitude for the experience, acknowledging that it has been a pivotal moment in both his professional and personal growth.
“Being a part of Project Brew and studying in this program exceeded my expectations,” he said. “Earning this accolade means a lot to me as it represents both my professional development as a brewer and my personal development during my life-changing experience at NC.”
Willis infused his winning creation, the Triple Pink Elephant, with a personal touch inspired by one of his favorite Belgian beers, Delirium Tremens from the renowned Huyghe Brewery in Belgium.
“The fact that the final result of the beer was met with such positive feedback was deeply rewarding because it shows I achieved my goal in emulating the distinctive characteristics of Delirium Tremens,” he said.
In addition to the earning the winning title, Willis was honoured with a $4,500 scholarship sponsored by Linde.
“This event continues to get better every year and the bar is getting higher and higher,” said Damien O’Flaherty, National Sales Manager – Beverage Carbonation, Linde. “This season’s student beers were as varied and original as I had ever tasted, and being part of the judging panel was extremely difficult. Although we finally honoured Coleton as a winner, all students should be proud of their fantastic creations.”
Willis attributes much of his success to the support and camaraderie received from his peers, instructors, and mentors at NC.
“I want to particularly thank my incredible colleagues and professors,” he said. “Winning this award wouldn’t have been possible without their guidance and support. They have not only been exceptional mentors but people I consider friends throughout this journey, and I am forever grateful for the collaborative and supportive environment they’ve created during my time at NC.”
As Willis concludes his final term at Niagara College on a high note, he expresses gratitude for the enriching academic path the College has provided him. Looking ahead, Willis is eager to dive into the brewing industry, applying the knowledge and skillset he has gained at NC.
“My goal is to take everything I’ve learned from NC and become actively involved in the field’s continual discoveries and advances, whether related to larger-scale production facilities, craft breweries, or any other aspect of the brewing industry.”
