Central Texas has a distinct and growing beer culture and women are not only present in every aspect of it from brewers, and distributors to consumers; they are also well-respected leaders shaping the craft beer culture. Our Women in Beer series highlights the women in our community shaping the beer scene including members of the Austin chapter of the Pink Boots Society. This edition features Daytona Camps, Brewer, and Brand Ambassador at Celis Brewing.
Describe your average week. What are you responsible for?
I was originally responsible for brewing, participating in events as well as traveling to other markets for a few days for sales. Throughout the years it has evolved, events are still a big part of the job but now I help package as we get into the busy season. Lots and lots of emails to go through, I look into sponsorships/donation requests, set up events like pint nights, visit and check in with accounts, and work with ourdistributors for sales, marketing, and forecasting. The fun part is getting with my team about new beer ideas and taproom events. I haven’t brewed in a while since we have two brewers but I enjoy checking in.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Honestly, my favorite part of my job is attending events like pint nights, sponsorships, beer fests, etc. When I get to talk to people about beer and my family’s story, it doesn’t feel like a “job”! Capturing people’s interests, answering questions, and watching them get more engaged as they enjoy our beers- there’s no better feeling. For me, it’s sharing the knowledge and passion with others that make it so fun.
What challenges have you faced in this or previous roles in the beer industry?
What challenges have you faced in this or previous roles in the beer industry?
Age and gender discrimination are quite possibly the most challenging aspect I face. Having started at a younger age than the average brewer, I have been pushed aside because of my age. In spite of that, I still have my passion and eagerness to learn. I wanted to understand every aspect of this industry and work hard. There is always room to learn more because no one knows everything and since we only get one life, it’s pointless to cast people aside for their age- explain, teach, communicate! This is how every job should be in my opinion.
As a woman, I have noticed the stereotypical response like “you don’t know beer because you’re a woman! You should stick to wine.” It is always disappointing to hear something like but I look past it and continue with my chin up because I am confident with my knowledge. Unfortunately, 10+ years ago this was a more common issue. Luckily this has not happened as much anymore now that more and more women are joining the alcohol business and show what we can do!
How long have you been working in the beer industry? What did you do before this role?
I have been working in this industry before I was legally allowed to drink which was the greatest test of my patience. This year makes 9 years in the beer industry. I have worked at 2 other breweries prior to Celis where I was exclusively brewing. Do I get bonus points for having grown up in a brewery for 5 years? I began working in the beer world after my first year of college. My job before beer was at a tanning salon while in high school which involved similar elements to a brewery: cleanliness and customer interactions.
If someone asked you to describe the current state of today’s craft beer climate what would you say?
IPAs are still hot and I don’t see that changing for a while. There seems to be a brewery a stone’s throw away in any direction around here. I am all for growth in this industry but I worry the bubble will soon burst. It has become a tough industry in recent years. COVID certainly made this very difficult for many businesses. Not to mention more competitive shelf space and higher priced raw materials. It is hard to be a small fish when there are whales and sharks swimming around you.
Is there anything else you want people to know about you, your company, and/or the industry as a whole?
I am one of those people who enjoys pineapple on my pizza. Sweet and savory is a heavenly combination!
How has Pink Boots played a role in your career? If so, how?
Absolutely! I joined in 2016 and I have met so many incredible women in this industry. Knowing that these tough ladies exist in my hometown pushes me to be a better woman and professional in this ever-growing industry, especially when mostly men are involved. I love the monthly get-togethers where we focus on educating each other on different facets of the industry as well as networking with some cold ones in hand. It is so empowering to see the organization grow each year. Not to mention such a comfortable group where there is zero discrimination- just straight encouraging, knowledgeable, and passionate women! It is certainly a group to be surrounded by
What question(s) are you tired of answering/getting asked?
If I was named after the beach or racetrack. For those who are curious- no, no I was not. I was named after a song by Chris Rea.
What beer are you currently enjoying the most?
Celis Kriek! Biased I know, but I LOVE fruit sours and this one is just the right tartness and sweetness for me. I especially love blending it with our Raspberry.
