Terri Miller

Briefly describe your job and responsibilities.

Visit bars, restaurants, beer distributors & grocery stores. Build relationships with account managers. Hold promotional events & samplings. Process case & keg orders.

What does a “typical” day at work look like for you?

Check emails and texts; process orders; visit accounts.

What was your first job?

Dairy Queen circa 1984.

When did you know this industry was right for you?

1984.

Briefly describe your career path and how you got to where you are today.

I’ve been in the service industry my entire life, as far back as selling Girl Scout Cookies as a young girl and delivering the Patriot News in my neighborhood as middle schooler. I started working at DQ when I was 15, then added Dunkin Donuts to the mix. Little did I know at the time that was perfect training to be a bartender later in life.

I did the corporate thing for 6 years at PA Blue Shield as a Customer Service Rep., but my soul needed more freedom than a desk job. I then started my own business selling health products & also traveled the US working trade show booths for a decade.

At some point, I need to slow down the travel, and lo & behold, Tröegs had just opened in Hershey. I never drank beer, but I was willing to learn everything, and I knew how to engage people, so I applied to be a bartender. I’d finally found my way back to my “work home.” I remember being so afraid that I’d serve a beer in the wrong glass.

After a handful of years, Ever Grain was opening in my hometown, so I jumped at the opportunity to work there!!! I’ve been there since day one, primarily working the beer bar, but during COVID we also served customers at tables, took orders over the phone, delivered to people’s homes, etc.  Last year, the owner asked if I’d be interested in helping with sales. It’s been an awesome year.

What is your favorite part of your job?

Connecting with people. I love my customers.

What is the most challenging part of your job?

Turning my brain off and relaxing.

What advice would you give to students interested in your profession?

Work hard. Always do more than you’re asked to do. Take a leadership role, be responsible. Be honest at all times. Smile, leave your bad attitude in your car. Be grateful. Respect your employer. Respect your customers, be interested in them.

What achievement are you most proud of?

Doing what I love and loving what I do.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Spend down time with my husband/bff & our 3 chihuahuas. Bikram yoga. Go to the Delaware Beach often! Visit other breweries. Attend concerts.

What is your favorite food to make or eat?

Beet quiche.

What’s at the top of your bucket list?

I don’t really have a bucket list.