“The first time I tried a truly craft, truly local beer, I was hooked by the creativity and the science behind it. The more I learned, the more I realized—one day, this is what I want to pour my energy into,” said Mike Harris, winner of the 2026 UC Davis Tapping Potential Scholarship, which provides tuition to attend the online Master Brewers Certificate Program. 

After military service and nearly two decades in law enforcement—plus raising children—Mike admits that life has slowed his progress toward realizing this dream, but his passion for brewing hasn’t wavered. 

“The Tapping Potential Scholarship is life changing,” said Mike. “As a disabled veteran transitioning into a new career, this scholarship removes barriers and opens a door I’ve worked toward for years. It’s fuel for the next chapter.” 

As he prepares to retire from law enforcement, Mike is starting a new chapter with Goathouse Brewing, in Lincoln, California—an 11-acre farm-to-tap property where he lives and helps around the brewery and acreage. 

“Goathouse feels authentic. It’s a farm-to-tap brewery built on family, agriculture and community—everything I value,” Mike said. “My kids love it here—being with the animals, hanging out with the regulars at the brewery. It feels like home. Ever since we got here, I knew this is where I belong.” 

We spoke with Mike about his path from public service to brewing, what the scholarship means to him and his hopes for the future. 

How have your experiences in the military and law enforcement shaped you? 

Serving in the Navy and spending decades in law enforcement taught me discipline, resilience and how to lead with purpose. These experiences shaped everything I am today—they taught me to serve my community first, stay calm under pressure and always keep learning. 

What does brewing represent for you? 

Brewing is where creativity meets community. It’s grounding, it’s hands-on and brings people together in a way few things do. For me, it’s been a source of connection, purpose and joy. I love getting my hands dirty and creating things. Brewing checks all my boxes! 

Why did you choose formal training through UC Davis’ Master Brewers Certificate Program? 

I want to honor the craft at the highest level. UC Davis is the gold standard, and this program gives me the technical foundation and professional training to step into brewing as more than a passion—this is my next career, my children’s future and a legacy for me. 

What part of the curriculum excites you most? 

I’m excited about the full picture—the science, quality control, engineering and production workflow. I want to understand not just how to brew great beer, but how to run a top-tier brewery. 

How will this program prepare you for your next chapter? 

The Master Brewers Program will give me the expertise and confidence to move from passion to profession. It bridges the gap between homebrewer energy and real brewery leadership. 

What does Goathouse Brewing mean to you and your family? 

I visited Goathouse when my kids were born and remember thinking what an amazing place it was. Now, after living here for the past three years—and with the possibility of ownership—it feels like fate. 

My kids are my entire world! With Goathouse, I can create something generational for them. That’s the most exciting part—building something meaningful they can be proud of that’s rooted in hard work, community and creativity. I want them to see that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself with purpose. 

How does Goathouse’s mission resonate with you? 

I love that the beer literally comes from the land beneath your feet. It’s sustainable, it’s intentional and it reminds you that brewing is agriculture first. That mission aligns perfectly with how I want to brew. 

What do you hope to contribute to the brewery? 

I want to help Goathouse grow—expand production, strengthen community events and keep the farm-connected, family-driven spirit at the center of everything. I want this to be the brewery the community is proud to call home. 

How do you hope to contribute to inclusion in the brewing industry? 

By leading with empathy, mentoring others and showing that there’s space in the brewing world for people from all backgrounds. If my path can help someone else feel like they belong, that’s the goal. 

I’d love to be an open door for people who have a passion or interest in craft brewing. I’ve felt that there’s a bit of a wall between those that like brewing beer and the industry professionals—and I want to help break that down. 

What impact do you hope to have on your local brewing community? 

I want to help build a stronger, more collaborative community—one that supports local agriculture, shares knowledge and creates experiences that bring people together. 

Our town—and Placer County in general—has such a close-knit, small-town feel. I want to be part of that family and open our doors to everyone, making them feel like they’re a part of ours. 

What drives you at this stage of your life? 

My children give me purpose. After years of serving in uniform, I’m ready to build something that blends service, creativity, community and family. This is the chapter I’m meant to write. I can’t wait to get started! 

For more information on UC Davis Tapping Potential or how to support the campaign, contact John O'Neill.