Joseph J Ruvane, III (aka Trip)

Briefly describe your job and responsibilities.

Barley Creek operations include three restaurants, craft distillery, craft brewery, catering venues and short-term rentals. My goal is to create an excellent experience for members of this team so they are better equipped to deliver an Exceptional Fun Experience to each and every one of our guests.

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

I like to break things and then have some fun enlisting members of the team to help me “Fix-It” so it’s better than it was.  A great day is when I get to interact with guests who compliment a member of the team – who I then get to planning to personally thank for delivering an exceptional guest experience.

What was your first job in the hospitality industry?

First job in hospitality was at age 14 – yard work at a cafe. My sister Sharon was a server and she “volunteered” me to the owner to cut the grass over a failed septic mound and pick up garbage in the parking lot.  Child labor laws were broken – but the food was good.

When did you know this industry was right for you?

At a very young age I knew I wanted to own my own business.  Growing up in the Pocono Mountains helped me accumulate a lot of hospitality skills sets.  Golf caddie, ski instructor, ski shop technician, social staff at Mt. Airy Resort, AXP fraternity House Steward at Hartwick College making sure “retired” Chef Angelo Ortiz had everything he needed, banker (9 years 364 days). In 1995 I became an entrepreneur, Co-Founder of Barley Creek Brewing Company, northeast PA’s first Brewpub since prohibition.

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

Much more fun to tell this story in person: WATCH HERE

What is your favorite part of your job?

The rewarding feeling of making connections that help create fun memories for guests and growth opportunities for members of the team.

What is the most challenging part of your job?

Figuring out the best way to help members of the team who have not always been successful to succeed.

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

Learn something about your industry every day. Get to know your co-workers. Bring ideas back from your travels. Have fun – even if the task at hand is not one the rest of the world might consider fun.

What achievement are you most proud of?

Convincing Eileen McKeegan to marry me! Then there’s our three talented kids…Kelly, Jay & Kyler.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Play hard – Ski – Golf – Travel and borrow ideas from really great independent operators.

What is your favorite food to make or eat?

Big fan of BBQ – The real fun with food and beverage is the company you share it with.

What’s at the top of your bucket list?

Turn up the enthusiasm, inspire others, and have more fun tomorrow.