This is a part of a monthly series of Q&As with members of the cider community from across the U.S. Brewer Magazine & Cider Business will share business and personal insights from decision makers in the cider industry to help you get to know each other better and learn more to better develop your own brand.
Travis Kopacek, Production Manager, 2 Towns Ciderhouse — Corvallis, Oregon
BREWER: How do you cultivate a strong team culture, and what do you think leaders often overlook when it comes to keeping employees engaged and inspired?
KOPACEK: For me, cultivating a strong team culture starts with creating an environment where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to grow. I focus on fostering a culture of self-improvement by helping individuals build confidence in their skills and encouraging ongoing learning opportunities, small-group team activities, and even the occasional team happy hour. Leaders can often overlook having empathy for one another. When you care for your employees, they care more about the job. I make it a point to get to know each team member personally, asking how they’re doing, observing their daily work, and understanding their challenges. All while still giving them the autonomy to do their jobs without micromanaging.
BREWER: In your view, what responsibility does a cidery have to its local community or the wider industry, and how do you try to live that out?
KOPACEK: I believe anyone working in cider has a responsibility to support the local community and the growers who make what we do possible. A craft cidery depends on regional farmers for fruit, honey, and other ingredients, so it’s important to help strengthen local agriculture, not just look for the cheapest option. I live this out by taking pride in knowing that every batch I help produce contributes to our local economy and the craft cider community as a whole. I also enjoy being involved in community events and industry gatherings. They’re a great way to build relationships, share knowledge, and keep the craft moving forward. For me, it really comes down to this: Respect the earth and each other, support your community, and make something you’re proud of.
BREWER: What are you sippin’ on right now from your cidery that you really enjoy?
KOPACEK: Our Anniversary Cider! Our anniversary ciders mark another harvest season and another opportunity to create something truly special. Each year, we craft a unique cider from heirloom apple varieties, using traditional techniques that honor the art and history of cider making. These limited releases allow us to explore apple character, yeast expression, and blend complexity in new ways. Every vintage tells its own story and every year we’re excited to share it with our community. Also, going up on the large stage of GABF to accept the gold medal in the No/Low-Tannin Cider category for our 14th anniversary was truly an unforgettable honor.
BREWER: How does a typical day in your role look, and how do you balance operational demands with fostering a positive team environment?
KOPACEK: A typical day in my role is a mix of overseeing production operations and staying connected with the team. Mornings always start by having a pre-communication meeting with the crew I’m leading. This is where I set a positive tone for the day and set out clear daily expectations. Throughout the day, I make time for team engagement. I like to walk the floor, talk with the team, and stay connected to both the process and the people. That might mean quick check-ins, asking individuals how they’re doing/feeling, or jumping in to help troubleshoot an issue. Balancing operations with culture means leading by example and keeping communication open. I make time to recognize good work, encourage growth, and keep the team grounded in why we do what we do.
BREWER: What first drew you to the industry, and what keeps you passionate about being part of it today?
KOPACEK: What drew me in was the way craft beverages create connection. They have this unique ability to bring people together and spark shared experiences. Seeing and being part of those connections sparked my passion for the industry. Once I got my foot in the door and started working for a local brewery, I knew I’d found the community and career I wanted to be part of.What keeps me passionate is knowing I’m part of those moments that bring people together. It’s rewarding to see someone enjoy a craft beverage I helped produce.
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