Garden State Wine Growers Association (GSWGA) Executive Director Devon Perry was given an opportunity to share a different perspective on the burgeoning New Jersey wine industry, driven by the fact that nationwide, less than 20% of winemakers and distillers are women. Traditionally, women have been excluded from these industries, although the number is slowly rising as more women choose to study this profession and enter the wine and spirits fields.
In her role with GSWGA, Devon represents all wineries and vineyards in New Jersey. Previously, she held various roles in the tourism, hospitality, wine, technology and non-profit sectors, which led to her current position at the Garden State Wine Growers Association. Devon shared her thoughts with Authority magazine on what it is like for women who work in this male-dominated industry along with some of the challenges these women face. She spoke to the importance of making it a priority to open doors for women in the industry as all states can benefit from a more inclusive workforce.