Meet the team
2026 Foundation Officers
Jeff Bowers– 2026 Foundation President
How long have you been a brewmaster?
I joined the TC Brew Masters in 2011 but had been brewing down in PBG with a few pro brewers that got us started in about 2007.
What is your favorite beer to brew?
Styles that many people like to drink – Pale Ales, Marzen, Porters – and most recently American Wheat summer beers!!
What is your favorite beer to drink?
The same styles I like to brew 😊 I also really enjoy experimenting with infusing different flavors into base beer styles.
What are you looking forward to most at this year's TC Brew Fest?
The Brewing community is such a fun, tight-knit group of folks – I look forward to bringing everyone together to put on one of the best Brewfest events ever. Making some great memories!
Andrew Smith – 2026 Foundation Vice President
How long have you been a brewmaster?
Since 2020!
What is your favorite beer to brew?
Amber Ales are my favorite to make since they are delicious all year round and my Dad’s favorite style!
What is your favorite beer to drink?
Amber Ales are the best go-to, but I have to give special recognition for Scottish Ales and Trappist Ales!
What are you looking forward to most at this year's TC Brew Fest?
Every year we enjoy the best beer, best breweries, best volunteers and best people in the Treasure Coast, what else could you need?
Steve Vitek- 2026 Foundation Treasurer
How long have you been a brewmaster?
33 years
What is your favorite beer to
Big, high ABV beers!
What is your favorite beer to drink?
Dogfish Head 90 minute IPA
What are you looking forward to most at this year's TC Brew Fest?
Delicious brews and lively music!
Jessica Hibberd – 2026 Foundation Secretary, Sponsorship Chair, President Emeritus
How long have you been a brewmaster?
I became a brewmaster’s assistant in 2014 when I married my husband, Peter, who makes exceptional beers.
What is your favorite beer to brew?
Coconut porter
What is your favorite beer to drink?
Anything sour and/or funky
What are you looking forward to most at this year's TC Brew Fest?
I am looking forward to enjoying a wide variety of delicious craft beers while paying tribute to our community’s many veterans.
Barb Faehnle - 2026 Foundation Member at Large
How long have you been a brewmaster?
Started brewing in November 1988 with a brew kit purchased at the B&A Flea Market from Orville Easton. Joined the Treasure Coast Brewmasters in November 2011 where my real brewing journey began.
What is your favorite beer to brew?
Session beers, any style.
What is your favorite beer to drink?
Pilsners
What are you looking forward to most at this year's TC Brew Fest?
A spectacularly successful festival celebrating the love of brewing while raising money for our charities, it’s a win win!
John Beard – President Emeritus
How long have you been a brewmaster?
Since 2012
What is your favorite beer to brew?
All beers. I don't really have a favorite to brew. Each brew-day has it's own challenges and rewards.
What is your favorite beer to drink?
I have a few. I really enjoy a good Wee Heavy Scotch Ale. IPA goes without saying. Then Belgium style, Belgium Sours and Spontaneous Fermented Ales.
What are you looking forward to most at this year's TC Brew Fest?
To have a successful event, and of course THE BEER.
Gerry Solorzano (Gerry The Pirate) - Founder, President Emeritus, & Ambassador
How long have you been a brewmaster?
9 years
What is your favorite beer to brew?
I don’t have a favorite beer to brew but the last I brewed was an Imperial Cream ale with Orange and Vanilla.
What is your favorite beer to drink?
Sours
What are you looking forward to most at this year's TC Brew Fest?
Cooler Weather? More beer!