Read on to learn more about the nominees in this year’s
Craft Maltsters Guild Board of Directors Election.
Member Malthouse Nominees:
Phil Neumann, Mainstem Malt
- Role: Co-Founder
- Location: Walla Walla, Washington
- Guild Member Since 2015
What is your personal vision for the craft malt community?
The Craft Maltsters Guild remains the only trade organization in the world dedicated to supporting artisan-scale maltsters. It began with a strong North American focus, but the community it represents continues to grow globally. I’d like to see the Guild lean further into that role and serve as a hub for collaboration, shared knowledge, and inspiration for maltsters everywhere.
Why are you interested in serving on the Guild’s Board of Directors and what do you hope to achieve?
My life has revolved around malt for over a decade, and the Guild has been part of that journey the whole way. Having served on the Board, I’ve seen firsthand the momentum our community has built over the past dozen years. I still see it growing (and the ability to keep growing) in very important ways, even with current headwinds in the craft beverage industry.
The craft malt community sits at a unique intersection of agriculture, food systems, and craft beverage. More than anything, I hope to strengthen relationships across the Guild—helping connect members, recruit new members, encourage collaboration, and support the people working to keep the dreams of the craft malt movement alive.
What skills, resources, and/or connections do you feel you will be able to contribute to the Guild’s Board?
The feedback I’ve received about my involvement with the Guild has been encouraging. I try to bring transparency, positivity, and creativity to collaborative work. I also bring hands-on experience navigating the realities of craft malting along with a wide network across the industry, from agriculture and supply chains to branding and small business development.
What other long-term volunteer opportunities have you been involved with (including service on other boards of directors)? Please list and describe your responsibilities with each below.
2022-Present… Walla Walla County Conservation District, Washington State Voluntary Stewardship Program work group
2021-Present… Craft Maltsters Guild, Committees / Working Groups
2020-21 & 2023-26… Craft Maltsters Guild, Board of Directors
2017-18… Blue Mountain Land Trust, Outdoor Recreation Committee
2015-16… Craft Maltsters Guild, Marketing Committee
2013-15… Walla Walla Watershed Mgmt. Partnership, Nonprofit Staff
2012… Oregon State University Cycling, Club President
What is one thing that your fellow Guild members should know about you?
I have a very tough time sitting still and, on a probably related note, have accumulated roughly one million hobbies. Oh and as of July 2025, I’m a father!
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