Lester Brown is the manager of Distillery Operations at Templeton Distillery. Brown started the distillery in 2015 and now oversees the annual production of 8,500 barrels, the 46,000-plus barrels of current inventory and all blending and production operations. Templeton Distillery also comprises a museum, visitor center and tasting room. Learn about Lester Brown…
Follow at: @templetondistillery, @infiniumspirits
Hometown: Winnipeg, MB
First job: Quality control for a flexible packaging company.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in IA: Whether it’s working in the yard or relaxing by a fire, I enjoy the outdoors with family and friends.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: Personally, being the first in my family to graduate college (BS in Chemical Engineering). Professionally, my time at Templeton Rye. I had the privilege of assisting in the construction of a plant, its startup, the mash bills and, finally, the release of Templeton’s own distillate (Templeton FORTITUDE Bourbon).
The biggest obstacle you overcame: Immigration of myself and the family to the USA.
Someone who inspires you and why: People who genuinely care and go out of their way to help.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Build a great support network with peers, family and friends. There is a lot of long hours for weeks at a time and having the support of an understanding family is a must. When problems arise, include your support network and ask for their input.
Favorite quote: “Lead, follow or get out of the way.”
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I received a scholarship to play water polo in college. I declined as they did not offer chemical engineering.
What makes someone fabulous: Someone who has self-respect and respects others.