The beer industry just got a little more diverse!
Anheuser-Busch, the world’s largest beer company known for its work through notable names like Bud Light and Budweiser, is making history through the appointment of its first Black female brewmaster.
According to Black Enterprise, Natalie Johnson entered the market as a STEM graduate and now has plans to promote diversity even further within the beer industry in her new role.
Johnson first got her start in the beer industry after she was able to land an internship with Anheuser-Busch immediately after high school.
“At the time I was looking for lab experience before going to college and the internship allowed me to see the immense amount of data and detail that goes into the brewing process,” said Johnson in an interview with Black Enterprise. “After graduating from college, I was fortunate to receive an offer from Anheuser-Busch and couldn’t pass up the opportunity to re-join the team in the innovation brewery where I learned about the brewing process and how to conduct my own analysis.”
Although she landed her role, she also wants Black women to know that there is more space for them within the industry.
“There is still much to do, and I am immensely proud to be at a company that places such a strong emphasis on D&I initiatives and continues to work with organizations, such as UNCF, to bring about change,” she said. “My advice to other Black women interested in the brewing industry is to pursue it!…your contributions are needed. Look for and seize opportunities to learn and be exposed to all aspects of the industry, then follow your passion.”
As the Brewing Director of North America, Johnson will be able to touch all the breweries in her zone, helping them to stay consistent and work through any issues that may arise.
