What is Brewing Operations?
The Brewing Operations Certificate Program is a one-year, 33 credit hours program
designed to prepare graduates to seek employment in the brewing industry. Program
students will learn the science and business behind brewing and gain hands-on production
experience in a regional brewery. They’ll understand how to identify and evaluate
the quality of beer, develop mechanical aptitude in working with brewing equipment
and learn environmental sustainability techniques in modern beer production. The program
includes an internship at a local brewery. After graduation, possible job positions
include assistant brewer, brewing equipment operator and quality assurance technician.
Who is this certificate for?
- This certificate is for those who are seeking employment in the brewing industry or
who wish to open a brewery.
- Individual courses are perfect for those who just want to learn more about craft beer
production without pursuing a certificate.
What is the job outlook?
- The Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an
11% job growth (2104-2024) both regionally and nationally for all food preparation
occupations, a gain of about 1.5 million jobs. Brewing jobs are not separated out
in this data, and therefore data from the Brewers Association is more relevant.
- The craft brew industry has grown dramatically over the past several years. According
to the Brewers Association, craft beer has demonstrated a 4% growth in U.S. sales
volume since 2018 and now captures 13% of the overall beer market. The number of microbreweries
and brewpubs opening nationally has shown an increase of 13% since 2017.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I have to be 21 years old to take these courses?
You can take all but one of the courses prior to being 21. Because there are tasting
requirements for HRMG 200 (Sensory Evaluation of Beer), you must be age 21 prior to
the start of the course.
- When are these courses offered?
All of the classes are offered from 5:00 p.m. on to allow more flexibility for those
who are currently employed.
- Can I take these courses on a part-time basis?
Absolutely! It was written for someone to complete within a calendar year if they
were taking classes full-time. It will just take a longer time to complete the required
courses if you plan to go part-time.
- How much time is spent in the classroom?
This program is a combination of lecture and hands-on skill development. In fact,
you will have a minimum of 250 hours of work experience upon completion of the certificate.
The time spent in the classroom is reduced compared to other academic programs.
- How much time is spent in the classroom?
This program is a combination of lecture and hands-on skill development. In fact,
you will have a minimum of 250 hours of work experience upon completion of the certificate.
The time spent in the classroom is reduced compared to other academic programs.
- How do I get started?
The very first step is to complete an online application to ACM. There is no fee.
The second step is to schedule an appointment to take the Reading Placement Exam
by calling (301)784-5554. This won’t prevent you from enrolling, but rather assist
us in helping you to succeed should you need a developmental reading course. The
third step is to complete a FAFSA (financial aid application) to determine if you
are eligible for financial assistance. And finally, schedule an appointment to plan
your schedule with Debra Swope via email at dswope2@allegany.edu.
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