Today we’d like to introduce you to Marcus Wyatt.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I began brewing in 2018. My interest was initially sparked when a colleague brought in mead and mentioned that he also brewed beer; I was just beginning to explore craft beer and found it quite intriguing. He suggested I try a one-gallon kit, which I did. My first brew was an Imperial IPA—while it wasn’t perfect, it provided a valuable learning experience. I later transitioned to all-grain brewing and was accepted into the Point Park brewing program, where I gained extensive knowledge from Greg Johnson and Conner Murphy. Additionally, I acquired essential hands-on experience working at Inner Groove in Verona alongside Kevin and Jen Walzer, as well as Tim and Kelly Melle. Throughout this process, I also obtained my Cicerone certification.
These opportunities were facilitated by Day Bracey, a key figure in Windy Bridges and Black Brewhouse, and an influential member of the Black craft beer community. On August 8, 2025, Windy Bridges Brewing officially became a business, making it the first Black-owned brewery in Pittsburgh and the second in Pennsylvania.
On April 23, 2026, TLC Libations and I partnered to open the Black Brewhouse in downtown Pittsburgh. This shared space is designed to support both businesses, promote industry contributions from diverse backgrounds, and foster inclusivity within a sector where BIPOC ownership accounts for less than 1%.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There are certainly times when you may question your own judgment, but it’s important to remember the true purpose of the work. While it requires sacrifices, ultimately, it contributes to a greater cause in the long run. I have found this industry to be very inclusive, and if I encountered any difficulties or had questions, I was able to reach out to a considerable number of colleagues who provided guidance or directed me to the appropriate resources.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Being the first Black-owned brewery is an accomplishment, but my primary goal has always been to create quality beer. I do not feel undue pressure from the title; rather, the real challenge lies in maintaining consistency. If we can reliably provide a welcoming, relaxed environment for excellent cocktails and beers, everything else will naturally fall into place.
My signature beer is a Cream Ale, which I believe serves as a great introduction for newcomers—it’s simply “beer that tastes like beer.” I take pride in seeing people enjoy my beer and observing their reactions firsthand.
What sets me apart is my dedication to learning and improving my craft to produce the best possible beer. While the industry is welcoming, it remains competitive, and with the rise of craft breweries, having that unique quality—what some might call “je ne sais quoi”—is essential to encourage people to come back.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My advice is to actively engage with others in the industry. Visit local breweries and take the opportunity to meet the brewers and owners. Feel free to ask any questions that come to mind. As I mentioned earlier, my interactions with other brewers and owners have been consistently helpful. Most of the time, they enjoy discussing their craft and sharing their knowledge, so it’s a mutually beneficial experience.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Windy Bridges Brew
- Facebook: Windy Bridges Brew
