A-B Tech Launches Brewmex Program in Collaboration with Connect@ Corp.

By rosa linda fallon

Photo Credit: Gabriela Villicaña Espin

In collaboration with Connect@ Corporation, the Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College’s Craft Beverage Institute of the Southeast is launching a new exchange program for brewing and distilling industry professionals. The study-abroad program, known as Brewmex, is an opportunity to join a cohort of local industry leaders and peers to discover areas for growth and potential business opportunities on an international level. Participants will learn about the general process of mezcal production via a hands-on approach, including the harvesting and cutting of the agave plant, the distillation and fermentation processes, cask maturation, and bottling in Guanajuato, Mexico. They will be eating, drinking, and experiencing the history of mezcal and other related beverage distilling all while experiencing the culture, history and heritage of the country. 

“As students are trying to diversify what they’re learning, the best thing to do is to go learn it,” says A-B Tech’s Director of the Craft Beverage Institute and Chair of Brewing, Distillation and Fermentation, Jeff Irvin. “It’s a fun opportunity potentially for both students there and students who come through our program, or for anyone who wants to know about what’s happening in that region of the world.” 

Lorena Patterson, founder and CEO of Connect@ Corp., says the Bremex program is comprehensive and offers an invaluable experience. “It’s a very comprehensive program that you can take with you anywhere,” Patterson says. “You get a lot out of it – connections, business, history. You’re eating and drinking history while learning.” Connect@ Corporation specializes in helping organizations and businesses develop a better understanding of Mexican culture to improve strategies to serve and engage the Latin American population. 

While anyone who is interested is welcome to participate, Patterson says Brewmex would be a great fit for those who are already working in the industry or who are considering pursuing a career in brewing or distillery. “The perfect student would be industry leaders, owners of a distillery or a brewery, or a student who went through the Craft Institute, or anybody who is thinking about going into the industry,” Patterson explains. 

“Application for theoretical knowledge is the hallmark for a student’s future success,” says Irvin. “Learning from the growers, processors, distillers and blenders will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to apply what they have already absorbed.” 

Included in the program are education and training modules: an orientation meeting; airfare and in-country transportation; meals and lodging; travel insurance; mezcal farms and vineyard tours; beverage sampling and testing; administrative fees; and a Spanish-English interpreter (as needed). After finishing the program, cohorts will receive a certificate of completion and a credential to add to their resume. 

“This is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to learn about what mezcal is, or anyone who is interested in importing mezcal or tequila, or who wants to expand their business,” Patterson says of the program. 

Dates for the program are May 22nd – May 28th. 

The deadline to apply is April 21, 2023. 

To apply, visit the following link: https://forms.gle/KJ3oQv874RsvdqB98