The staff of Pacific Western Brewing (PWB) are opening cold ones in honour of Kelly Olson, their brewmaster, who is retiring after 43 years on the job.
Olson has been a part of PWB for roughly two-thirds of its 68-year existence, joining the brewery in 1982 when he was 25.
Brewmaster has not been his only role, Olson spent time in the brewery as Warehouse Manager, Bottle Shop/Production Manager, Quality Assurance, and more.
“Kelly Olson’s knowledge and passion for brewing has been integral to Pacific Western Brewing’s success and innovation,” says PWB Owner and CEO, Taizan Komatsu. “Under his leadership, our Brewhouse has thrived, creating countless recipes and brews that have elevated our brands domestically, and have also garnered significant international acclaim. His contributions have shaped the products that are loved by our consumers and have sustained our corporate goal of producing quality products for an affordable price. On behalf of everyone at Pacific Western Brewing, I extend my deepest gratitude to Kelly for his unwavering commitment, and I congratulate him on an outstanding career.”
According to PWB, Olson is responsible for Canada’s first certified organic lager – the NatureLand Organic Lager brewed in 1997.
In 2005, his NatureLand Organic Ale Beer was awarded a gold medal at the Industry International Awards in Munich, the first Canadian beer to do so.
Olson is also the man behind Cariboo Genuine Draft, the brewery’s most popular drink, and Pacific Pilsner, his personal favourite.
“For 43 years, we have benefitted from Kelly’s knowledge, passion, and experience; it will be difficult to imagine PWB without him,” says Cindy Hartford, Plant Manager. “I want to express my sincere appreciation to Kelly for his friendship, his mentorship in brewing, and his dedicated service to the brewery. His contributions have played a key role in creating some of British Columbia’s finest beers.”
He will clock out for the final time on August 30th.
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