From Distiller’s Hand to Award-Winning Distiller: Kaylin Pulley’s Journey at Weldon Mills Distillery
WELDON, N.C. — What began as a temporary job while pursuing an undergraduate degree at East Carolina University quickly became a passion and career path for Kaylin Pulley, whose journey through Weldon Mills Distillery has now earned her national recognition as Best Woman Distiller at the International Women’s Spirits Competition.
Pulley’s story at Weldon Mills wasn’t shaped by a title alone. It was built beside the stills, through long production days, hands-on learning, and mentorship from some of the industry’s most respected professionals.
Starting as a Distiller’s Hand, Pulley immersed herself in every aspect of the distilling process, steadily advancing through the operation before becoming Distiller and now serving as both a Distiller and Production Manager for Weldon Mills Distillery.
“What started as what I thought would be a temporary job quickly became something much bigger,” Pulley said. “I fell in love with the craft — both the artistry and the science behind it. Every step of the process fascinated me, and I found myself wanting to learn more and grow within the industry.”
Throughout that growth, Pulley credits the people around her for helping shape her path, particularly the mentorship and support she received while learning the craft.
“I was fortunate to be surrounded by incredible mentors and an amazing work family whose support, knowledge, and guidance helped shape me into the distiller I am today,” she said.
Among those mentors was legendary Master Distiller Mike Norman, whose dedication to craftsmanship, discipline, and quality helped establish the foundation Pulley continues carrying forward today.
That dedication recently earned Pulley national recognition at the International Women’s Spirits Competition — a platform designed to celebrate women making an impact across the spirits industry.
“As a female distiller, the competition immediately stood out to me,” Pulley said. “I appreciated that the judging panel was made up entirely of women and felt it was a meaningful opportunity to be part of something that highlights and celebrates women making an impact in the spirits industry.”
Receiving the title of Best Woman Distiller marked a milestone not only for Pulley personally, but for the mentorship, teamwork, and culture that helped shape her career.
