Pink Boots Society

Teri Fahrendorf

Pink Boots Society is an international non-profit organization dedicated to assisting, inspiring, and encouraging women in the beer industry to advance their careers through education. Founded in 2007 by Teri Fahrendorf, the society has grown significantly, with members spanning across the globe. The organization's name, Pink Boots Society, was inspired by the pink pair of boots that Fahrendorf wore during her road trip across America, visiting breweries and connecting with female brewers.

History

The Pink Boots Society was established in 2007 after Teri Fahrendorf's 139-day road trip, where she met several female brewers. Recognizing the need for a support network, Fahrendorf created a platform for women in the brewing industry to connect, share knowledge, and support each other's professional development. The society has since expanded, offering scholarships, educational resources, and networking opportunities to its members.

Mission and Activities

The primary mission of the Pink Boots Society is to empower women beer professionals to advance their careers in the Beer Industry through education. The organization achieves this by:

• Providing scholarships for professional development courses and training.
• Hosting educational seminars, workshops, and webinars.
• Organizing collaborative brew days, such as the annual Pink Boots Collaboration Brew Day, which raises awareness and funds for the society's educational programs.
• Facilitating networking opportunities and mentorship programs for women in the industry.

Membership

Membership to the Pink Boots Society is open to women who earn income from the beer industry, including roles in brewing, marketing, sales, and other related positions. The society also welcomes individuals who are working towards entering the beer industry.

Impact

The Pink Boots Society has made significant strides in promoting diversity and inclusion within the beer industry. By providing educational resources and networking opportunities, the organization has helped many women gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed in their careers. The society's scholarships have enabled members to attend brewing courses, leadership seminars, and other professional development programs.

Collaboration Brew Day

One of the society's hallmark events is the Pink Boots Collaboration Brew Day. Held annually on International Women's Day (March 8), this event brings members together to brew a special beer. The recipe and beer style vary each year, with a portion of the proceeds going towards the society's educational scholarships and programs. This event not only raises funds but also increases visibility for women in the brewing industry.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite its successes, the Pink Boots Society faces ongoing challenges, including gender bias and inequality within the beer industry. The organization continues to work towards creating a more inclusive environment, advocating for equal opportunities, and addressing issues of discrimination and harassment.

Looking forward, the Pink Boots Society aims to expand its reach, offering more scholarships and resources to women worldwide. The organization also plans to increase its advocacy efforts, working towards a beer industry where women have equal representation and opportunities.

See Also

• Women in brewing
• Beer Industry
• International Women's Day