Meet the Extractor Volume 2

‍Ian Gold shares his advice for those considering a career in cannabis, a little bit on his favorite way to make edibles, and what makes right now such an exciting time to be in cannabis. 

We recently sat down with our own Ian, a lab technician who works out of our Worcester cannabis production facility, to learn more about him, and his experiences in the cannabis industry. 

So, let’s start at the beginning - how long have you been in the industry? 

I've been in the industry since mid 2018. I started in cultivation at Apotheca where I mainly helped lead the harvest team as well as dry/curing, and hand trimming for packaging. I started at Temescal Wellness in early 2019 as a packaging associate. I quickly started to head up the packaging of Core Concentrates. I later went into the Infusion laboratory and then eventually landed in the Extractions lab where I went from blasting butane hash oil (BHO) to leading the distillation process.

What’s something that you think has helped you advance so quickly? 

I have experience in every department of this industry except for retail which isunusual, because the industry is so young in Massachusetts. I am someone that loves to learn, and that’s something that makes the cannabis industry so exciting - there’s always something to learn. And here in Massachusetts, and really in any of our East Coast dispensaries, the space is growing so quickly and consumers are becoming more informed. It’s an exciting time for learning and growing. (pun intended!)

It sounds like you’re in the right industry! What is your favorite thing about the job, right now? 

I enjoy the laboratory setting. I enjoy being able to use my knowledge of the plant and processes to make the best product possible, not just for our consumers but patients who rely on these products for therapeutic relief.

What is your favorite thing to make?

My favorite thing to make is THC distillate. It is a versatile product that I personally enjoy using in edibles. Using distillate in edibles is easily the most versatile way to infuse a snack, drink, treat, or meal. I also generally prefer vaporization over smoking. 

What’s your first priority when it comes to working in the lab? 

A clean lab and clean equipment will make a clean, pure product.

What would you say to someone who is interested in exploring extracts?

Familiarize yourself with your local laws regarding home extractors. Familiarize yourself with the laws of thermodynamics. Familiarize yourself with the system you are processing with and how to run it safely. 

What would you say to someone who is interested in a career in production?

Don't be afraid to get right in at the ground level of these cannabis companies. Many of them are still in the start up phase or just out of it. With some hard work, a ground level position can turn into something more quickly. It worked for me! 

And, we’re always looking for passionate people to join our team here in Worcester.

Temescal Wellness serves guests with a variety of high-quality cannabis medicines and education, in strict compliance with state and local rules and regulations. Shop our menus and visit our job listings to see available positions.