I grew up in a small town in Illinois, where I lived till I graduated high school. In high school, I was a competitive swimmer. I also worked a variety of part time jobs to include, cook, busboy, cashier, bean walker, corn detasseller, grocery store bagger, lawn mower, and landscaper. I also played guitar, bass, drums, and clarinet in a variety of school and local bands. I moved to the South Bay, in California in 1991 after graduating high school.
Shortly after arriving in California, I got a job for a large oil company where I’ve worked in the Coker Unit, and now the Crude Unit.. I continue to work there. My hobbies have evolved to include, hiking, camping, cooking, running, and making beer. I’ve ran 5 marathons to include the Athens Marathon in Athens, Greece (2005), the San Jose Rock n Roll Half Marathon(2006), the Catalina Buffalo Run(2008) the Los Angeles Marathon(2008), and the Catalina Marathon(2008).
I’ve been married since 1998 and have a son & 2 daughters. Most of my immediate family lives in Southern California.
In 2001, I joined the California National Guard and did 20 weeks of Basic Training and AIT at Ft Leonard Wood, MO as a Chemical Specialist. In 2004, I deployed under Operation Enduring Freedom to Egypt/Israel for 15 months. In 2007, I deployed under Operation Iraqi Freedom for 20 months. In December of 2009, I completed my 8 year contract and ended my service.
Now, I spend my free time with my family, brewing beer, and trying to figure out what to do next.
noel@crudebrewcrew.com