June 7, 2022 9:30 a.m. 

Umpqua Community College has announced that Joel Goodwillie has been hired as the winery manager at the Southern Oregon Wine Institute.

A release said the position is responsible for managing activities and services at the college’s winery and overseeing SOWI as it expands in support of the regional wine industry and partners.

Goodwillie has extensive experience, having owned and managed numerous businesses including Mountain West Hard Cider, Bad Seed Cider, Callahan Ridge Winery and Wind River Cellars, where he served as owner, general manager and head winemaker.

Goodwillie also has a background in business, sales and marketing, strategic planning and implementation and customer relations. He co-authored the federal Columbia Gorge American Viticultural Area application and co-founded the Columbia Gorge Winegrowers Association.

Dean of Community Education and Partnerships Robin Van Winkle said, “Joel’s passion for the wine industry is complemented by his passion for helping others looking to enter the field. Such leadership qualities make him a perfect fit for the position, as we have no doubt he will inspire the next generation of vintners”.