Thinking of joining a spirited industry?

With market growth and strong job opportunities, a career in distillation may be right for you

While it’s impossible to pinpoint the exact moment the first human sipped the first alcoholic beverage ever made, the process of fermentation—using yeasts to convert sugars into alcohol—was practiced widely across ancient civilizations. Humans were making beer and wine long before today’s breweries and wineries came into existence.

The art of creating alcoholic spirits through distillation, however, is a more recent skill. Many sources attribute the origins of today’s distilling technology to advancements made more than 1,000 years ago.

Fast forward to today’s beverage industry, and innovation continues—fueled by consumer interest in craft spirits and advancements in technology. In the U.S., the distillery industry has grown over the past 20 years. By some estimates, there are more than 2,000 distillery businesses in the United States—in 2004 there were 70, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor.

Of course, all those distilleries need distillers. Have you ever wondered if a career as a distiller is right for you? Do you already have the chops to create potent potables but want to expand your skills? In 2024, Sacred Heart University launched a distillation science certificate program, the first of its kind in Connecticut—to go along with SHU’s brewing science certificate that launched in 2020.

Read on to learn what it takes to be an important part of the beverage industry and help advance it forward.

What does a distiller do?

A distiller produces, ages and blends alcoholic spirits and beverages. The process requires a knowledge of how to separate alcohol from a fermented beverage by taking advantage of various boiling points.

“To be a great distiller, you must first be a skilled brewer and a jack of many trades,” said John Rehm, director of SHU’s brewing and distillation science certificate programs. “Brewing and distillation require a working knowledge in the diverse fields of biology, chemistry, physics and engineering, as well as strong business and operational skills.”

What training or education do you need?

Foundational education combined with real experience is crucial for a successful career in distillation. “To be a brewer or a distiller, you must learn by actually doing,” Rehm said. “You get your feet wet, literally, in learning how to make great beer or distilled products. You must formulate, measure, make incremental changes and try again.”

He said a recipe might look good on paper, but the proof is in the finished product. In the distillation certificate program, students learn about safety and cleanliness and then literally get their hands on the raw materials and tools of trade. “We discuss historical styles and methods and then use sensory science to evaluate the products students make, alongside commercial examples,” Rehm said.

Why is certification important for a career in the distillery industry?

A certification reflects commitment to the craft and business. With a certificate-level education a distiller can become better at the art and science of their craft while also making them more attractive to potential employers, investors or customers.

Meanwhile, a certification program can help an established distiller revisit the fundamentals, scientific principles and best practices of distillation. “Many professionals might have a good working knowledge, but they can still benefit from a deeper dive into the technical and scientific aspects of the profession,” said Rehm, who also is brewing operations director at Two Roads Brewing Company and Distillery in Stratford, Connecticut.

They also can learn how to grow their business, he said, by gaining perspectives on today’s competitive landscape, innovation opportunities, regulatory issues and markets.

What are potential career paths in the distillery industry?

Completion of a brewing or distillation science certificate opens doors to many opportunities. Gain a head start to enter the profession, start your own business or enhance your skills. The program also qualifies students to attain roles such as assistant distillers, cellar/barrel managers, quality assurance technicians, quality control technicians, sensory analysis program managers, tasting room managers and others.

Is this a career with growing demand?

The distilled spirits industry has grown, with revenue market share up nearly 15% in the past 20 years. Job growth has steadily risen during that time. At SHU, aspiring distillers gain networking opportunities through field work, including visits to suppliers and producers. The program also culminates in an internship in a working local brewery or distillery, which provides invaluable experience and mentor connections.

“The connections formed over a kettle or a still are irreplaceable,” Rehm said.

Curious about earning a distillation science certificate at SHU?

Coursework is hybrid and scheduled to suit the needs of working professionals. The program is designed to be completed in just under one year. Reach out to Pepper Lavoie at 203-396-6266 or lavoiec3@sacredheart.edu.