As a sixth generation-owned brewery, we pride ourselves on our enduring history and 190 years of success to our family. By “family,” we don’t just mean the five generations of Yuenglings who came before us, but also our generations of employees. Their strong resiliency has helped us overcome immense challenges, including Prohibition.  Their hard work is the reason we are where we are today.

We wanted take a moment to show our appreciation and celebrate International Women’s Day, which is March 8^th and spotlight one of our dedicated employees, Jessica Bridgett, who has devoted nearly four years to the brewery and 11 years in the beer industry. According to the site Women in Craft Beer, 29 percent of brewery workers are female, and as 6^th generation brewers, we want to continue to celebrate the ever-evolving role of female brewers in the beer industry.

Jessica is currently the Florida Zone Manager at our Tampa brewery, and most recently led the charge behind our “Operation Pay-It-Forward,” a relief effort collecting needed supplies for those affected by Hurricane Michael in Florida’s Panhandle. We are so inspired by her commitment that we had to share her story.

What does leadership mean to you?

A good leader is someone who not only inspires and motivates a team, but also makes each individual feel valued, trusted and included in the process. A leader is able to put themselves in someone else’s shoes – whether that’s a customer, colleague or even a supervisor. I also believe a good leader demonstrates an ability to be humble and a willingness to be open.

 Why do you enjoy working at Yuengling?

While a lot has changed in our company (and industry) over the years, the core values that define the brewery have remained consistent. Yuengling makes decisions with integrity and focuses on its people. The Yuengling culture is crucial to the brewery’s success and will ensure we keep our very unique legacy alive.

What is one of your greatest accomplishments? How do you stay successful at your job?

When I joined the brewery in 2015, I was tasked to help build the National Accounts department and move our business forward in a highly competitive segment. Staying true to who we are as a brewery was important for me to ensure we could carve our own path and our own strategy with new and loyal customers. It continues to be a driver for how I approach the business in my new role with the Florida Zone.

What is one piece of advice you would share with fellow employees?

As someone who has worked in more “corporate” cultures, my advice would be to make sure you are taking full advantage of working for a family owned and independent company. Our brewery puts a focus on its people and offers opportunities to contribute in ways that simply don’t exist in other companies. Do not be afraid to share your ideas or feedback and play a larger role in Yuengling’s future success.

Thank you Jessica!

-Jen, Wendy, Debbie and Sheryl Yuengling