Whiskey Education and Training

Learn the tools for a successful career dealing in whiskey, Scotch whiskey or bourbon

Whether you're interested in a career in imported whiskey, domestic whiskey, bourbon, Scotch whiskey or just anything whiskey, there's a lot more that goes into whiskey education and training than just drinking it. Coopers, master distillers and everyone in between must have a knowledge of the history of the product and an appreciation for its legacy.

Taking courses that specialize in the production of whiskey will certainly help you on your path to a successful career in whatever aspect of whiskey making you choose. Also gaining a knowledge of whiskey companies, whiskey brands, whiskey drinks and overall whiskey products will give you a leg up on the competition when it comes to looking for a job. Here are some tips on how to gain that successful career working for whiskey distillers, whiskey distributors and even whiskey sellers.

1. Go abroad and take a comprehensive class in the history, production and marketing of Scotch whiskey.

2. Educate yourself in the making, marketing and distributing of bourbon.

3. Determine which aspect of the whiskey business you wish to focus on for your career.

Attend one of several collegiate courses specializing in Scotch whiskey

In order for a whiskey to be labeled "Scotch whiskey," it must have been produced in Scotland. Educating yourself on the history of the beverage, how it is distilled, marketed and sold by the culture that made it famous will give you an advantage when you seek employment in the whiskey field.

Take a class in bourbon, the American counterpart to Scotch whiskey

Bourbon differs from its Scotch whiskey counterpart in that it is made in America, contains at least 51% corn and is below 180 proof. Bourbon is also traditionally sweeter in taste than Scotch whiskey, which is known to be drier. Take the time to educate yourself in the differences, as once you're in the whiskey industry you'll be working with or competing against either bourbon or Scotch whiskey.

Learn about the different facets of the whiskey and bourbon business

In the whiskey business, apprenticeships are formed between the artisan and the worker. These apprenticeships range in all aspects from being a cooper (the person who makes the barrels) to being a master distiller (actually overseeing the mixing and making of the whiskey.) By joining associations and attending trade shows, you can interface with these exhibitors to learn if there are apprenticeships available in the aspect of whiskey making that you enjoy.

• A college degree in food science may give you a leg up on the competition if you desire to work in the whiskey field. Mixing and distilling such large quantities of alcohol is as much a recipe as it is a scientific equation which must produce similar results consistently over a long period of time.

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