Trocaire College is pleased to announce its new Brewing, Distilling and Fermentation Science program, officially launching its first course on Sept. 20 under the Workforce Development arm of the college.

The five-course program provides the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to enter into the ever-expanding and exciting industry of brewing, microbrewing and distilling, with courses running in the fall and spring semesters at Trocaire's Williamsville location on Transit Road. A certificate of completion in Brewing, Distilling and Fermentation Science from Trocaire College will be awarded to students who successfully complete all courses in the program.

Beer and amateur brewing enthusiasts will also be able to explore additional personal development and educational programming opportunities by attending related classes and events, such as "Beer and Cheese Pairing" and "Introduction to Home Brewing" mini workshops and more later this fall.

Today, the Buffalo area has 27 craft breweries and six distilleries, and related industries are booming, bringing national attention and eager beer-loving visitors to the Western New York region. Trocaire's Workforce Development arm offers a wide array of training and educational opportunities for individuals getting started in the workplace, furthering their current careers, or working to meet licensure/certification requirements.

"The new Brewing, Distilling and Fermentation program is another unique path towards a career-focused future, with participating students having the chance to engage and interact with local breweries and businesses to help them gain valuable industry knowledge and experience," explained Mollie Ballaro, dean of Admissions and Workforce Development at Trocaire.

The new program is led by seasoned brewing professional Brian Barrows, who has returned to the Buffalo area after spending time in California working for 21st Amendment Brewery and Bear Republic Brewing Company, both highly respected brewing leaders.

Barrows' knowledge and experience also includes study at the Seibel Institute of Technology & World Brewing Academy, certification in Food Safety Risk Assessment, a doctorate of Philosophy, nutrition from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, as well as a bachelor of science from the University at Buffalo.

"I am pleased to return back to Buffalo, bringing with me a great deal of industry knowledge and experience to share with others who share my passion for brewing science, distilling and beer," Barrows said. "This program is well positioned to meet the hiring needs of a sky-rocketing local industry, but also provide unique and fun specialized education and hands-on training for those who enjoy the science and art of beer. We're excited to get started, and I look forward to working with Western New Yorkers who want to learn about this amazing ancient craft, which has once again become immensely popular all across the country and the world."

The first two of five courses launch Sept. 20, with additional beer-centric classes and events following in October.

For more details and to register for classes online, visit https://trocaire.edu/brewing.