Seth Caddell: From homebrewer to brewing instructor

In the world of craft beer, passion often serves as the motivation for transformation. For Seth Caddell, co-owner of Coastal Fermentory in Newport News, Virginia, and instructor in the University of Richmond Beer Brewer Professional Certificate Program, this transformation began with a deep-rooted passion for brewing and a desire to explore the possibilities within the beer industry.

Caddell’s journey started years ago when he immersed himself in the art of homebrewing, cultivating a love for craft beer that would ultimately lead him to pursue formal training. Eager to explore whether the brewing industry would be a suitable path for his career, in November of 2016, he became part of the inaugural cohort of the Beer Brewer Professional Certificate program.

Reflecting on his experience with the program, Caddell recalled pivotal moments that shaped his understanding of brewing.

“When an instructor made water chemistry clear to me for the first time... all the pieces I knew fell into place,” he shared.

The program not only deepened Caddell’s knowledge of brewing, but also provided valuable insights into the inner workings of the beer industry. Caddell noted that the instructors not only shared their expertise and advice, they regularly stayed late after class to answer questions.

“The field trips as part of the cohort were super helpful,” Caddell recalled. “Getting to spend a brew day with a brewery gave plenty of time to ask questions and really see the concepts we learned in class brought to life.”

Upon completing the program, Caddell made a significant career transition, leaving behind a 15-year tenure as a minister to pursue his dream of opening Coastal Fermentory. With unwavering support from his family and mentors, Caddell embraced the challenges of entrepreneurship, leveraging the skills and insights gained from the Beer Brewer Professional Certificate Program.

Today, as co-owner and general manager of Coastal Fermentory, Caddell oversees the brewery’s front-of-house operations, events, and collaborations. He regularly draws on the knowledge and experience gained from his certificate program.

“The course impacts my work most days,” he remarked. “It gave me helpful concepts for the business of running a brewery as well as the vocabulary to have an intelligent conversation with our brewing team.”

Caddell’s journey has led him back to the classroom, as he now serves as an instructor in the same program that kickstarted his career transformation.

“Being able to come full circle with the Beer Brewing Certificate from cohort 1 participant to now instructor has been a ton of fun,” he noted.

Looking ahead, Coastal Fermentory is poised for further expansion with plans to open a second taproom in Newport News. In fact, Caddell aims to establish Newport News as a destination for craft beer enthusiasts, and he believes the area’s growth is just beginning.

Through his story, Caddell offers a testament to the transformative possibilities of enrolling in the Professional Beer Brewer Certificate program.

“Whether it’s potential owners, brewers, taproom staff, or managers, there’s helpful information for anyone in the industry or looking to get into it,” he advised.

Caddell’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder that with dedication, support, and a thirst for knowledge, one can turn a passion for brewing into a thriving career.