Since the summer of 2017, Jo-Ann has been a beacon, both internally and externally, of the positive energy Hill Farmstead aims to exhibit. She has been an exemplary steward of the financial department, the source of hours of laughter, and someone we all have strong affection for. This year will be her final one as a member of the Hill Farmstead Brewery team as she enters retirement, though you may still see her occasionally in cameos during events. Below she reflects on the past nine years (and beyond), looks ahead, and we express our sincere gratitude for brightening our workplace.

How did you find your way to Hill Farmstead?

Shaun and I actually go back a long way, to The Shed. Ken Strong originally hired Shaun for the cellar (in 2002), but then I hired him years later as a brewer (in 2005). Eventually, in early 2017, Shaun contacted me to see if I was interested in a finance job at the brewery here. A few months later I called back, only for the job to no longer be available, but then in June it became available again so I joined up.

It was a difficult start, because I had to teach myself most everything. I took the job in sections.

The entire culture of the company is different now. Since 2017, the brewery has matured to what it is today, something we’re proud of. On the basic level, I’ve seen the start of canning, exporting, shutting down for the COVID-19 pandemic and going down to four employees from 25 (we’re now back to 20), and an entire shift in beer-drinking culture.

What has the NEK meant to you?

After living in Stowe for many years, when I got married and started a family I decided to move back here. Hardwick has evolved some into a more lively place, but is mostly the same to me from thirty years ago.

What brings you the most joy in your day to day at the brewery?

The coworkers always make my day. We have a great group of people that I’ve gotten close to and get to spend quality time with. Now being the oldest it’s a pleasure to spend time and have relationships with a younger group of people. Every time I’ve jumped in to help retail staff I’ve loved getting to know the Hill Farmstead clientele – that’s something I’ll miss dearly.

How do you like to spend your time at home?

My grandchildren. Even though they don’t live near me, my work at Hill Farmstead has allowed me to travel and have the time to watch them grow up. My husband Larry retired three years ago, so I’m looking forward to joining him.

With retirement coming soon, what are you looking forward to?

Initially spending more time in the garden and outside, but eventually maybe spending more time in North Carolina with family. But even when retired I expect to have some responsibilities, enough to keep me interested.

In reflection, what’s been most memorable about the past nearly nine years here? What impact do you feel you’ve had at Hill Farmstead?

Compared to other places I’ve worked, being a part of something positive and a successful company has made all the difference in my work energy.

What do you wish you had told yourself ten, twenty, thirty years ago?

Maybe not to take everything so seriously, to stop along the way to enjoy the better parts of life (family, friends, etc).