Harrison on-site at Deutsche Beverage Technology Brew Day

Soon everyday will be a brew day for Harrison Holder, who recently joined the team at Lost Worlds Brewery as Assistant Brewer. He was headed toward a career as a Physical Therapist when he took a left turn at the tap house. After home brewing for fun, and a short course in brewing at Appalachian State University, Lost Worlds Brewery found its way into his long-term plan.

Until the brewery opens in early 2020, Harrison is furthering his education alongside Director of Brewing, David Gonzalez, testing recipes, sharing in brew days and collaborations with established breweries, attending conferences and growing his knowledge of the industry. Oh, and he’s planning a wedding next summer to his High School sweetheart. Meet Harrison Holder…

Give us your stats…

I’m 24 years old, born and raised in Charlotte and graduated from UNCC. I’m currently working at a country club and spending my time brewing and learning as much as possible until we open in January. For fun, I coach U14/16 soccer for a local club team. I’ve been playing soccer since I was 4 and it’s a big part of my life.

Talk about the preparation for your new role as Assistant Brewer

Most of my brewing education has been working alongside DG,our Director of Brewing, but I did complete an accelerated course offered by the Fermentation Science department at ASU. We discussed everything from ingredients to market trends and spent time conducting sensory and lab analysis. The class was filled with people opening their own breweries, brewery workers who wanted to further their knowledge of the process and even tour guides at major breweries who were expanding their knowledge. It was a great course, but being able to put that classroom experience to test alongside DG, at a brew day at Rock Hill Brewery last month, is invaluable.

Harrison, Lost Worlds Brewery Founder Dave Hamme and Director of Brewing, DG

What are your thoughts on working with a brewer as experienced as DG?

He may kill me for saying this, but he has more experience brewing than years I’ve been alive. His knowledge and passion run deep. Before I took the ASU course, we met at a brewery, went through syllabus for the course, and talked for 2 hours. He said, “I’m going to push you to work hard and learn everything about brewing and continually test you.” When we brew together (on other’s equipment since ours is not ready yet) he asks questions I’ve never thought of. It’s been great to get familiar with the equipment and prep for opening.

What excites you most about this new journey?

It’s great that my education transfers to this industry – biology and chemistry was a big course of study in my degree. But instead of relating to humans, it’s beer. And I like beer! I want to learn everything at that deeper level – to trouble shoot if an enzyme isn’t working probably at that temp, etc.

You're starting a whole new chapter all together -- talk about your engagement, pending wedding...

Yes, I have a huge year ahead! My fiancé and I have been together since high school and dated for 7 years before I popped the question. We’ve actually known each other since middle school. We’re getting married in June 2020 and have talked about brewing a signature beer special for our reception.

What do you feel you need to succeed? In life and work?

I know I need good mentors in my life to talk to -- my dad, DG, my uncle and my finance’s dad are all great role models who can point me in right direction. I think it’s important to love what you’re doing and work toward something. I believe it takes a great attitude, effort, discipline and being persistent.

What style beers do you like to brew?

I like brewing all styles. I especially like styles that allow for different ingredients – base malts, hop additions, etc. I like to see how flavors interact – making beer is the ultimate science project.

What style beers do you like to drink?

It depends on the season. I drink light lagers, blondes, and goldens in the warmer months. In the winter I prefer darker beers – like porters, dark ales and stouts. The course at ASU helped me identify what I truly like.

What are a few things you love about the craft beer industry?

I’m just getting started, but I’ve spent as much time as possible at beer festivals, in breweries with the Brew Masters and going to conferences. I like how open, friendly and helpful everyone is. So many other industries are cut-throat. The craft beer industry is so collaborative.

What's the most exciting adventure you've been on?

I love to travel. I’ve spent time in Europe, visiting Germany, Austria, Italy and Rome. I go to Salt Lake every year to ski and hang out. I like the island life and my visits to the Caribbean, but I think I’m more of a mountain person. Going to the Craft Beer Convention this year in Denver was a great way to combine both my career in beer and a mountain trip.

Where do you hope this new role will take you?

I’ll continue to further my education in the brewing industry and see where it takes me. I won’t know the route until I’m submerged in it, soaking it all in. I’m just lucky to have this great opportunity.

It's a Brew Day for Harrison Holder. Meet our New Assistant Brewer…