From Healthcare to Fermentation: My Career Pivot into Craft Beverages

They say your career isn't a straight line—and my path is living proof.

For 13 and a half years, I worked in the healthcare industry, focused on medical equipment and services. I had a clear trajectory in mind, but sometimes, life (and passion) demands a shift. I recently sat down with Wes Noyd on the Off Route Podcast to talk about why I traded the hospital environment for the world of winemaking and spirits at Infinity Beverages.

Why I Made the Jump

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I started homebrewing as a hobby. It quickly went from a simple weekend activity to a full-blown obsession. I found myself wanting to learn everything I could about fermentation—not just beer, but winemaking, sourdough, and beyond.

At the same time, I felt I had hit a wall in my healthcare career. I wanted a change that allowed me to leverage my background in sanitation, technical maintenance, and process management, but in a field that ignited my creativity. When a position opened up at a local winery, I realized this was my chance to merge my professional skills with my personal passion.

The "Consultant Mindset" in Beverage Sales

Transitioning to the production and warehouse side was only the beginning. I eventually moved into a sales role, where I realized something fascinating: the skills I learned in healthcare were directly transferable.

Whether you are selling medical equipment to a hospital or wine to a retail account, the core of the job is the same—it’s about problem-solving, building relationships, and "consulting" rather than just "selling." My goal isn’t to be a one-and-done vendor; it’s to act as a partner to our retailers, helping them succeed by providing the right products, education, and even creative solutions like our repurposed barrel displays.

Fermented Curiosities: Learning Together

That’s exactly why I started Fermented Curiosities. It’s not just a recipe blog; it’s a living record of my process. I believe that being open about mistakes and experiments is the best way to learn.

Watch the Full Interview

Want to hear more about the transition, the reality of working in craft production, and why we’re seeing wine cocktails take off in local cafes? Check out my full conversation with Wes on the Off Route Podcast here:

Watch: From Healthcare to Homebrewing on YouTube

Are you navigating a career change of your own? I’d love to hear your story. Drop a comment on the video or reach out via my contact page—let’s talk fermentation!

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