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Tessa Schilaty
Beer Sensory Scientist
Professional Background
Tessa Schilaty is a highly skilled professional blending extensive international experience in the beverage industry with a solid scientific foundation in brewing and distilling. Her unique skill set combines on-the-ground production insights alongside sales expertise, allowing her to bridge the gap between the technical and commercial aspects of the beverage world successfully. Tessa’s professional journey began in various countries, including Germany, Sweden, and Chile, where she honed her skills in brewing before taking her career to the next level in Scotland.
In Scotland, Tessa took a significant step in her education by pursuing a Master of Science in Brewing and Distilling from Heriot-Watt University, renowned worldwide for its programs in brewing and distilling sciences. During her academic journey, she seized the opportunity to gather practical experience by working part-time at a local gin distillery, further enriching her insights into the industry. Her hands-on approach to learning and her proactive participation in real-world production scenarios underscore her dedication to mastering the craft.
Currently, Tessa holds the position of Sensory Research Coordinator at Yakima Chief Hops, a reputable organization celebrated for its high-quality hop products. In this role, her primary focus is on planning and executing the assessment of various beers and raw materials primarily for research and development purposes. Tessa excels in her capacity to assess sensory elements, ensuring that the products meet the highest standards of quality and flavor.
Education and Achievements
Tessa's academic foundation is built on her Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Neuroscience from Western Washington University, where she developed a profound understanding of human perception and sensory experiences—knowledge that she effectively applies in her current role in the beverage industry. Building on that foundation, her pursuit of an MSc in Brewing and Distilling at Heriot-Watt University equipped her with specialized knowledge and skills tailored to the beverage industry, positioning her as an expert in the field.
In addition to her formal educational attributes, Tessa's extensive volunteer experiences showcase her commitment to learning and contributing to the brewing community. As a volunteer assistant brewer, she gained invaluable insights while working with various breweries, including Cerveceria Caiquen and Strange Brew Beer, and further showcased her abilities as an intern at Hertl Braumanufaktur. Each of these roles equipped her with the requisite hands-on experience and practical knowledge essential for her professional growth.
Recognition and Contributions
As a professional in the beverage industry, Tessa has not only actively participated in production but has also played an instrumental role in educating others in her field. She has provided technical education both internally at Yakima Chief Hops and externally across various organizations. Her dual-reality approach—drawing from her vast experience and scientific knowledge—allows her to deliver education that translates complex brewing and distilling concepts into relatable information for others.
Through her compassionate and engaging methods of teaching, she inspires colleagues and budding professionals to appreciate the intricacies of brewing and distilling. Such contributions not only elevate the quality of industry knowledge but also foster a new generation of passionate professionals.
Future Aspirations
As Tessa Schilaty continues to advance in her career, she remains dedicated to enhancing her skills within the beverage industry. With her wealth of experience across international borders, her commitment to research, sensory evaluation, and education makes her an indispensable asset in any related endeavor she chooses to pursue. Tessa is poised to make significant contributions to the advancement of brewing science and technology, securing her position as a leader and innovator in the field.
Her insights into sensory research and development are vital for the evolving landscape of beverage production, and she is undoubtedly an inspiring figure for many aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals in the industry. Tessa's blend of passion, scientific acumen, and international experience will continue to open up fruitful opportunities, benefiting not only her professional path but also the communities she engages with in the global beverage landscape.
