Mar 29, 2024  
2022-2023 CNM Catalog, Volume 54 
    
2022-2023 CNM Catalog, Volume 54 [The CNM Academic Year includes Fall, Spring, Summer Terms]

Distilled Spirits Technology, Certificate of Completion


School of Business & Information Technology (BIT)

The Distilled Spirits Technology Certificate of Completion provides students with the knowledge and skills to enter into the distilled spirits industry in entry level positions. Topics include:

  • Distilled Spirits production & styles
  • Distilled Spirits equipment & maintenance
  • Distillery operations
  • Food safety and workplace safety

Students will apply their knowledge of distilled spirits production in hands-on laboratory-style classes located both on-campus and in commercial-scale distilleries.  This Certificate emphasizes the knowledge of equipment, technology, and skills required of entry-level employees in commercial-scale distilleries. 

The Distilled Spirits Technology Certificate is a required part of the associate of applied science degree in Beverage Production and Management Distilled Spirits Concentration.  

Educational Option Information

  • This educational option can be completed: Part-time or full-time. Full-time students can complete the program in one term.
  • This educational option is designed for: Professionals seeking the knowledge and experience necessary for entry-level positions in the distilled spirits industry.
  • This educational option can be started: Any term
  • Primary course location: Main Campus; class meetings may be held at commercial distilleries.

Special Requirements

  • Students must be at least 21 years of age or older at the start of term for all BEV courses except BEV 1160 
  • Students must be able to repeatedly lift 55 pounds
  • Students must be able to stand for the duration of the laboratory class

This program includes production, identification, and evaluation of alcoholic beverages. Students are urged to consider their ability to consume alcohol before enrolling in this program. If you have concerns about the role of alcohol consumption in this program, please contact an Advisor.

Additional tools or supplies required for this educational option

  • Students are required to purchase textbooks, personal protective equipment and clothing, and tools.

Approximate Cost FA pending  

Educational Opportunities

Students will have the opportunity to earn the following industry certifications: New Mexico ServSafe® alcohol server’s permit, ServSafe® Manager Training and Certification, and distillery safety training certificates.  Students completing the certificate may pursue an associate of applied science degree in Beverage Production and Management, Distilled Spirits Concentration at CNM.

Many of the courses in this program are transferable and some may be applied to four-year degree programs at other institutions. CNM currently has transfer agreements with many colleges and universities in New Mexico and elsewhere.

Career Opportunities

Both nationally and locally in New Mexico, the distilled spirits industry continues to show a strong growth trend with new distilleries opening and existing distilleries expanding. 

Distilleries in New Mexico and nation-wide have expressed a strong interest in hiring trained employees who are familiar with the skills, equipment, and technology necessary for entry-level work in the distilled spirits industry.  While the Certificate emphasizes content relevant to workers in packaging and production roles of a distillery, the Certificate would also provide important background knowledge for affiliated jobs, including:

  • Beverage wholesalers
  • Beverage retailers
  • Beverage servers
  • Distillery owners and managers

Ten Year Rule for CTE Courses

Career and technical education courses in this program will qualify for credit for a period of ten academic years. Due to changing technologies, trends, and professional demands, courses completed ten or more years in the past will satisfy program requirements only if they are approved by the instructional school in which they were offered. Cohorted programs may have additional restrictions.

Program Requirements


Courses


Minimum Credit Hours Required to Complete Certificate: 16


Program Approved Electives


  • Any BEV Course (except those required for the degree) 

  • Any CULN Course (except those required for the degree) 

  • Any HT Course (except those required for the degree)