Name
Alyssa Townsley
Age
35
Company/Organization
Niles Brewing Company / Spartan Tool
What Does Your Company/Organization Do?
At Niles Brewing Company, we brew more than beer—we brew community. From Boozy Book Clubs and Trivia Nights to creative events that celebrate small businesses and entrepreneurs, we’re all about bringing the community together in fun, meaningful ways. As Co-Owner, we focus on creating an inclusive space where everyone feels welcome. By day, I also serve as the Social Media Specialist at Spartan Tool, a powerhouse in the sewer and drain cleaning industry. My role on the marketing team is all about education, engagement, and supporting the hardworking pros who rely on our tools. While a craft brewery and sewer equipment may seem like an odd pairing, both roles let me flex my creativity and build strong communities— It’s a totally different world, but the goal is the same: connect, support, and make an impact—one just has fewer hops and more horsepower.
Education
I’m resourceful and always eager to learn—whether through reading, research, online courses, hands-on experience, or learning from others in my community. While I’ve done some college coursework, my growth comes from staying curious and open to new challenges every day.
Accomplishments
Opening a business with my wonderful husband in 2020—right in the middle of a global pandemic—is definitely my proudest achievement. This August, my Boozy Book Club marks its third anniversary, and I’m so proud of the awareness and funds we’ve raised for local charities and nonprofits through our brewery events and trivia nights. At Spartan Tool, I was honored to receive the 2022 Summit Award for dedication and commitment.
What else do you hope to accomplish by the age of 40?
I hope to continue building stronger connections within my community through even more creative events and gatherings. I want to keep providing spaces where people can come together, share experiences, and support one another—whether it’s at the brewery, through book clubs, trivia nights, or new initiatives yet to come. Bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging is what drives me every day.
Current City
Niles, MI
Place You Were Born
Niles, MI
What was your first job?
Babysitting
What’s the best advice you ever got?
The best advice I ever received was to focus on myself and what I can bring to the table, rather than comparing myself to others. When I concentrate on my own strengths and growth, I’m able to make a bigger impact and stay true to who I am.
Who inspires you most?
The people who inspire me the most are the business owners and leaders in our community. I admire how they show up every day—especially on the hard days—and keep pushing forward with dedication and resilience. Their commitment to serving and uplifting others motivates me to do the same.
That one thing about you we’d be most surprised to learn.
You might be surprised to know I’m a certified sewer and drain cleaning operator—I even passed the exam with a 99.5%! I also love strategic reality shows, like Survivor, The Challenge or Traitors.
What do you love to do in your downtime?
You’ll usually find me reading—whether it’s an audiobook, on my Kindle, or physical copy. I’m often juggling more than one at a time! I’m also hooked on true crime podcasts and love spending quality time with my friends, family, and my dog, Roxy.
What book are you reading now?
Right now, I’m reading Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books by Kirsten Miller for our August book club pick, and I just started King of Ashes, the latest release from S.A. Cosby.
Volunteer activity you love the most.
I love creating fun, community-focused experiences that give back. There’s something really special about bringing people together for a good time while also raising awareness or support for local charities and nonprofits.
What motivates you to give back to your community?
I was born and raised here, so giving back to the community is deeply personal for me. I love the people, the connections, and the energy that comes from bringing everyone together. Hosting fun events and seeing people genuinely enjoy themselves—that’s what lights me up. Hearing that others look forward to what we’re doing at the brewery motivates me to keep creating those moments.
What Superpower would you most love to have?
If I could have any superpower, I’d choose unlimited energy. With all the events to plan, books to read, and community fun to be had, I’d love the ability to keep going without ever feeling drained. Just imagine—more time for creativity, connection, and getting things done… and maybe even a clean inbox!
What would you like to leave behind as your legacy once you are gone?
If I’ve made people feel welcomed, supported, included, and more connected to each other, then I’ve done something meaningful. I want to leave behind a community that feels stronger, engaged, and inspired to keep showing up for one another.
What does the honor of being named to the 40 Under 40 most mean to you?
Being named to the 40 Under 40 means so much to me. It’s a reminder that the time, heart, and energy I’ve poured into building community truly matters. It’s an incredible feeling to know those efforts are seen and appreciated.
