Polk State alum brews success as owner of Swan Brewing

Dan Thumberg has become a well-known smiling face, serving up locally crafted and deservingly awarded brews at his premier taproom in Lakeland. His story, shaped by twists, turns, hops and ambition, includes a later-in-life stint at Polk State College, where he received his Associate in Arts degree while developing the preliminary ideas for Swan Brewing – now a staple in the Polk County community.

Thumberg and his business partner Christian Hood opened the doors to their brewery off Lake Wire in 2018. Since then, their team has racked up multiple accolades on Untappd, winning the Brewery Madness 2025 competition and high ratings for varieties like The Bean Blonde Golden Ale and Straight Outta Lakeland IPA. In recognition of its impact, Swan Brewing was also honored as the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business of the Month in April 2022.

“I have to give Polk State and the environment at Polk State credit for making Swan Brewing what it is, because it did spark that creativity that I needed,” Thumberg said. “The real planning came right around the time that I was at Polk State…, and it reminded me that there is more to this world than what I was used to.”

He started his college journey after high school at the University of South Florida, but “life got in the way” and led him to the workforce, where opportunities continued to present themselves but often required a degree for career advancement. He worked for Anheuser-Busch, American Express and Apple. It was in his 30s that Thumberg decided it was time to go back to school.

“I was nervous…, I thought I’d be surrounded by 18-year-olds fresh out of high school,” he recalled. “Seeing people my age, balancing work and school, made the transition so much easier.”

With the diversity of people from all walks of life and “an environment with thoughts bouncing around everywhere,” Thumberg was inspired to follow his passions – not only for beer, but also for community.

“It challenged me to understand different people, beliefs and backgrounds, which helped how I approach my business,” said Thumberg, who went on to receive his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida.

With a growing craft beer scene, he developed the ideas for what would become a community-focused brewery. With nearly 40 years of combined brewing experience among its team, Swan Brewing emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavors, resulting in standout beer like the Freedom American Lager, which clinched a Gold Medal at the 2022 Best Florida Beer Competition in the American Style Light Lager category.

Today, Swan Brewing stands as a testament to Thumberg’s vision and drive. Located in the heart of Lakeland, the brewery is more than a place to enjoy craft beer. He is most proud when speaking about the community atmosphere that has developed around the business.

“When I look out at our patio overlooking Lake Wire,… [I] see cellphones on the table and people having conversation. That’s the coolest thing,” he exclaimed.

Thumberg’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in Polk County is to embody the We are Polk motto.

“It starts with community, and it should be about the community,” he said. “That’s why I would recommend Polk State College wholeheartedly to anyone – not only to someone who is looking to find a state college to go to, but looking for any college to go to.”

“Polk State is one of the most affordable educations you can get anywhere in the state of Florida, but [it’s also] a world-class education…, right in your backyard.”