From Plant Science to Pints: Emma Mechelke’s Journey to Brewing Excellence

For Emma Mechelke, brewing isn’t just about making beer—it’s about honoring her roots, embracing her passion and reframing her career. The former plant scientist is embarking on an exciting new chapter as the latest recipient of the Michael and Sheila Lewis Scholarship in Brewing, a prestigious award that provides a full-ride to the Master Brewers Certificate Program at UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education. 

Her journey to brewing began in the wheat fields of North Dakota, where she spent childhood summers on her grandparents’ farm. There, agriculture always felt like a kind of superpower to her—working with the land to turn raw ingredients into something life sustaining. It’s no surprise, then, that she pursued a degree in plant science and built a career in agronomy and alfalfa breeding. But something was missing. 

“I want to work with something that truly brings me joy,” she said. That something turned out to be beer. 

A Bold Career Shift: From Fields to Fermentation 

Growing up with a dad from Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, where the town's proudest achievement is Leinenkugel’s Brewing Co., Emma was always surrounded by beer culture. Even as her family moved around the country, she recalls how Leinenkugel’s remained a constant presence in her home—more than just a brand, it symbolized connection, heritage and pride. But it wasn’t until she started working in plant science that she began to see brewing as a viable career path and a way to contribute to her state's most valued resource. 

“My background gives me the foundation to excel at learning the art and science of brewing but also use my unique perspectives to advance the field into a more sustainable and relevant era for people and the planet,” she said. 

Through her work with Wisconsin cranberry growers and later in alfalfa research, Emma gained a deep appreciation for the delicate balance between agriculture and industry. She saw firsthand how science, sustainability and tradition could come together to create something both economically viable and culturally significant. Brewing, she realized, was the perfect intersection of her skills and passions. 

“The brewing industry is a careful symbiosis between grower, brewer and consumer with many opportunities to connect over a shared mission that has become central to cultures the world over," she said. "I want to be in the thick of it all and advance the practice in any way I can, whether in the brewhouse or barley field." 

A Perfect Fit: The Master Brewers Certificate Program 

Making the leap from plant science to brewing wasn’t just about following her heart—it required a strategic approach. Emma knew she needed a top-tier education and industry connections to make a successful transition. That’s what led her to UC Davis CPE’s Master Brewers Certificate Program, renowned for its world-class curriculum and faculty. 

“The reputation of the program initially interested me, but what sealed the deal was the structure and flexibility of the course," Emma said. "An intensive four months spent learning the ins and outs of brewing alongside folks equally passionate about beer is the perfect environment for me.” 

For Emma, committing to two plus years of graduate school didn’t make sense. 

“UC Davis’ unique continuing and professional education offering allows me a shot at making my dream a more immediate reality," she said. 

Winning the Michael and Sheila Lewis Scholarship allows Emma to pursue that dream and prioritize her education without financial stress distracting from her goal. 

“A life change like this is a huge risk any way you look at it, and gifts like these are transformative,” said Emma. “A scholarship of this magnitude after many years of hard work is a vote of confidence from the brewing community.” 

Brewing a Sustainable Future 

Emma wants to shape the future of the brewing industry. She’s particularly passionate about sustainability in brewing, with an eye toward improving raw material sourcing and sustainable agricultural practices. 

"I want to take my experience as a brewer back to farmers’ fields to better inform the crop varieties, management practices and processing steps to promote quality brews with a socio environmental mindset," she said. 

Emma believes that in today’s world, instability is the norm, and it will take bold, innovative ideas to ensure the future of brewing is both environmentally and economically viable. 

"There is a world of opportunity in the regenerative agriculture and regional food systems space that could push the brewing industry into a more sustainable future," she said. "I want to work within this space and encourage diverse voices to add to the conversation. My hope is to build a more robust craft beer market that appeals to younger generations and their consumer preferences and ethics.” 

Advice for Career Changers: Take the Leap 

Emma knows firsthand how daunting a career change can be. Her advice? Weigh your passions against your current job situation. If you can’t see yourself thriving a decade from now, it might be time for a change. 

“There’s no time like the present to put your life to work for you in a career that serves you both personally and professionally,” she said. “Take a leap of faith and put trust in your support systems. There is power in community and when you surround yourself with folks championing your success, there’s no stopping you.” 

She also emphasized the importance of learning as much as you can before diving in. 

"Shadow someone. Find a mentor. Or just diversify your network. Create as many touch points as possible within your sphere to best guide you along the way," she said. 

As Emma prepares to start the Master Brewers Certificate Program, she is eager to soak up knowledge, build industry connections and hone her craft. “I’m just a humble Wisconsinite from the Land of Sky-Blue Waters who enjoys a good brew shared with the people I love. And really, isn’t that what it’s all about?” 

This article was kickstarted by AI and handcrafted to completion by the marketing staff at UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education, who are responsible for the final product. By combining technology and human expertise, the article is accurate, engaging (at least we hope you think so!) and written efficiently.