Mike is a 19-year veteran of Naval service, both in and out of uniform, and the principal Co-Founder, CEO, and brewer of Barley & Sword Brewing Company. With a career spanning strategic, operational, and tactical logistics—and more than 13 years of homebrewing experience—Mike helped forge the original vision and identity that define the Barley & Sword brand today.

After a year and a half of running the brewery while still working a full-time job, Mike made the leap into full-time brewery operations in January 2025. A history enthusiast with deep geek and nerd roots, he credits his partner, Erin, for her unwavering support throughout this wild and rewarding journey. He’s rarely seen without Sif, his Norwegian Elkhound and loyal shadow, and he relishes answering the endless curious questions of his two kids—especially when it involves teaching them about the long, fascinating history of beer and its influence on the world.

Mike lives by the belief that “Beer is the what, not the why.” Beer brings people together, and the relationships formed along the way are what make the journey truly meaningful.

Bruce is a 24-year Retired U.S. Navy Chief and one of the Co-Founders of Barley & Sword Brewing Company, where he now serves as COO. When he’s not overseeing operations, he works as an IT consultant supporting Navy cyber projects. Bruce holds both a bachelor’s and master’s in Information Systems Management and gives back to the San Diego community by serving on the Education Advisory Board for a local vocational college. He’s also the co-founder of a 501(c)(3) off-roading nonprofit that raises money for veteran organizations and youth STEM programs.

A lover of classic craftsmanship in all forms, Bruce shares his home with three Great Danes—an old-world breed known for their regal bearing and gentle loyalty. They’re often the unofficial mascots of the brewery, reminding him daily that tradition, heritage, and a bit of giant-dog chaos make life (and beer) better.

Kimee and Christian are former scientists who traded lab coats for craft beer as Co-Founders of Barley & Sword Brewing Company. With backgrounds in early-stage startups and technical PhDs in Geophysics (Kimee) and Quantum Physics (Christian), they bring thoughtful structure, curiosity, and a little controlled chaos to the brewery’s strategic direction. Outside Barley & Sword, they work as Program Managers with deep-tech startups in Silicon Valley—helping build the cutting edge while supporting the craft.

True fermentation enthusiasts, they spend their downtime brewing small-batch mead, exploring sake breweries around the world, and chasing down the ancient, modern, and experimental flavors that inspire their creativity.

Jada is a retired U.S. Navy Chief and PLNU alumna with an MBA in Global Leadership. At Barley & Sword Brewing Company, she helps lead brewery events, merchandising, and nonprofit partnerships, bringing creativity, intention, and a strong community focus to everything she does. She works closely with local artists, makers, and charitable organizations—including Kane’s K9s, where she volunteers as a foster—to support and uplift the causes she’s passionate about.

A proud South Bay resident of more than a decade, Jada has built her post-military life around purpose, connection, and creative expression. She’s also a wife, a proud mom of one amazing young adult, and a devoted dog lover with two adopted pups of her own.

When she’s not creating community experiences for the brewery, you’ll find Jada crafting in her woodworking studio, hiking California’s trails, lifting at the gym, exploring van-life adventures, or discovering the best art festivals, food spots, and beer destinations. Everything she does blends artistry, adventure, and a genuine love for people—often with a dog or two happily along for the ride.

US Navy Chief