Matt Brynildson began his brewing career with KALSEC (Kalamazoo Spice Extraction Company) working as hop chemist. After attending the Siebel Institute, he joined Goose Island Beer Company where he was head brewer of the Chicago Fulton Street production facility from 1996-2000. In 2001 Matt joined Firestone Walker Brewing Company as brewmaster. He also works as a brewing consultant for Hop Growers of America. Matt was the 2007 recipient of the Russell Schehrer Award for Innovation in Craft Brewing.