Get to Know Tomas Mojica, Masia de la Vinya Winery
My name is Tomas Mojica and I am barback/server at Masia de la Vinya. I’m currently in my third year of college at Cal State San Marcos and pursuing a degree in Kinesiology with a strong ambition to become a physical therapist for the military. I have been balancing academics with real-world experience as I’ve been contributing to Masia de la Vinya since July 2023. Im known for being kind, funny, and hardworking, My dedication is to achieving my goals and making a positive impact.
1.What originally inspired me to pursue a career in wine country?
My sister sparked my passion for wine country, especially since she also worked in the industry. Growing up, her knack for finding hidden gems and enthusiasm for exploring new places was infectious. Seeing her thrive in her own wine country job solidified my interest. Her dedication and knowledge showed me that a career in wine country could be both fulfilling and intellectually stimulating, leading me to pursue this path. She also instilled in me a deep appreciation for hard work and building relationships, values that are now integral to my own work ethic. Knowing she’s navigated a similar path gives me a great resource and a constant source of inspiration.
2. A moment that made me truly feel proud of my work:
A moment I felt truly proud of my work was when I was promoted to lead barback. It wasn’t just about the title; it was the recognition of my dedication and hard work. I started as a regular barback, learning the ropes and always striving to be efficient and helpful. The promotion meant that my efforts hadn’t gone unnoticed and that my managers trusted me to take on more responsibility, like training new staff and managing inventory. It was a huge confidence boost and motivated me to continue excelling in my role.
3. My go to sip after a long day:
After a long day, Tempranillo is my go-to wine for its comforting yet complex character. Its medium body and moderate tannins offer a smooth, easy-drinking experience that isn’t too heavy. The earthy notes, combined with hints of cherry and plum, create a sense of warmth and relaxation, perfect for unwinding. Plus, its versatility means it pairs well with a variety of simple meals or snacks, making it an effortless choice for a stress-free evening. It is also my girlfriend’s favorite! Shout out to KC Kilroy!
4. How has my role evolved since I started in the industry:
In addition to my promotion to lead barback, I’ve also taken on roles as a server and special event greeter. Serving allows me to connect directly with customers, enhancing my communication skills as I guide them through our offerings. As a special event greeter, I focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring guests feel valued and excited from the moment they arrive. These combined roles have broadened my skill set and made my workdays more dynamic.
5.What do I love most about working in wine country?:
What I love most about working in wine country is the opportunity to meet new people and create lasting relationships. Every day brings new faces, each with unique stories and backgrounds, enriching my own perspective. Building connections with both visitors and colleagues fosters a sense of community and collaboration that makes the work environment truly special. These interactions not only enhance the customer experience but also create a supportive network that extends beyond the workplace, making every day feel rewarding and fulfilling.
