Bryan’s path to cheesemaking wasn’t a straight line. Before entering the dairy world, he worked as a landscaper, truck driver and carpenter. But everything changed in 2008 when he accepted a job at a local cheese plant.
“I grew up working on a dairy farm,” said Bryan. “I enjoyed it, but I just didn’t see myself doing it for a long time. When I started working in a cheese plant, I fell in love with the processing side of things.”
After joining Foremost Farms, Bryan was encouraged to pursue the program by Scott Navarre, Product Manager and Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker marking his 10th year of certification in Cheddar and Monterey Jack.
“Bryan’s dedication to the craft is evident in everything he does,” said Scott Navarre. “The Master Cheesemaker Program demands patience, discipline, and a deep commitment to quality, and Bryan brought all of that and more. Watching him grow through the process has been incredibly rewarding, and his achievement is a win not only for him, but for our entire team.”
The Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker Program is known for its rigor. Candidates must complete years of coursework, demonstrate deep specialization and pass a comprehensive final exam that can take more than 40 hours to complete. Bryan earned his Master certification in Mozzarella and Provolone, two of Foremost Farms’ core cheese varieties.
Earning his Master Cheesemaker credentials has changed the way Bryan approaches his work. “The program intensified my desire to solve problems and improve,” he said. “It helped me see the entire process more holistically, balancing the craft of making great cheese with the specific needs of our customers.”
“Becoming a Master Cheesemaker is a rare achievement, and Bryan has earned it through dedication, craftsmanship and a genuine passion for the dairy industry,” said Brenda Dehart, President & CEO. “His leadership strengthens our entire organization, and we are honored to celebrate this milestone with him.”
Bryan received his official Master Cheesemaker recognition at Cheese Expo on April 16, 2026, at the Baird Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His achievement marks a significant milestone in his career and reinforces Foremost Farms’ commitment to excellence, continuous education and producing high-quality dairy products.
To see more about the Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker® program or learn about Wisconsin Master Cheesemakers, visit www.wisconsincheese.com.
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ABOUT FOREMOST FARMS USA
Foremost Farms USA® is a dairy cooperative representing hundreds of Midwest dairy farmer members located across seven Midwest states, including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin – America’s Dairyland. It is one of the largest, leading dairy cooperatives in the United States and a major food manufacturing business.