Educational Sessions

The Oregon Brewers Guild is excited to expand the breadth of the educational topics to be covered for the 2026 Oregon Brewers Conference.

There will be 2 concurrent tracks in the morning, one business-focused and one technical-focused. We will bring everyone back together in the afternoon for the remainder of the sessions.

Alternative Beverages: The Good, The Bad, The Better

Sponsored By: Abstrax Hops
This panel discussion will bring together producers of non-beer beverages within the Oregon brewing industry such as Hop Water, CBD & THC Beverages, Cider, and more. As the beer industry shifts, brewers must remain able to diversify, remain flexible, and meet consumers’ needs.
Next-Gen Oregon Hops: Harnessing Heritage, Science, and Collaboration

In this panel discussion, participants will discuss their specific expertise in breeding programs, agricultural considerations, and insights into how Oregon brewers can best support the Oregon Hop Industry.
Beyond the Bar: Turning Taprooms into Profit Engines

Learn how to maximize your taproom sales potential, drive business, and sell more pints over the bar. We will focus on successful program models that increase your brewery’s visibility and brand awareness, build a loyal, regular customer base, and host innovative, enjoyable events.
Relationship Management: How Brands and Distributors Build Productive Partnerships

Get ready to learn all you ever wanted to know about navigating distribution relationships. We will bring together self-distributors and our largest distribution partners in the state for a conversation covering expectations for distribution contracts, how to choose the right partner, how to manage relationships, and more.
Brewery Safety: Protecting People From Floor to Mind

Join Oregon OSHA representative Ryan Hibler and Jackie St. Louis of D-Fine Concepts for a comprehensive look at safety in today’s brewery environment. Ryan will cover essential physical safety practices for both front- and back-of-house operations, along with an overview of OSHA resources and support available to breweries.
Jackie will also explore mental health as a critical component of workplace safety—examining how burnout, stress, and fatigue impact performance, decision-making, and risk. Participants will learn how to recognize early signs, set sustainable boundaries, and build practices that support both individual well-being and team resilience.
The session will conclude with an interactive Q&A.
Oregon Brewers Guild Update & State of the Industry

Sponsored By: Imperial Yeast
Don’t miss this session - learn what your Brewers Guild has been working on, goals for the future, and why being a member is essential. Additionally, we will cover the State of the Oregon Beer Industry; challenges, trends, and what the future might hold.