St. Pete residents have an affinity for craft beer. The Burg’s brewery scene’s success has inspired young and old to enter the fray of fermenters. Of course, opening a brewery is hard work that requires more than just an appreciation for the art.

USFSP teaches students the art and business of brewing

In the summer of 2016, the University of South Florida St. Petersburg launched a new a brewing arts program.

The program includes ten online modules in brewing science, engineering and business. Each online module is followed by an assesment to grasp the students comprehension of the material. Once students have completed all of the modules and proven their understanding of the material they will receive hands-on training at a craft brewery and a quality assurance lab. Breweries include:

• 3 Daughters Brewing Company
• Coppertail Brewing Company
• Barley Mow Brewing Company
• Green Bench Brewing Company
• St Pete Brewing Company
• Florida Avenue Brewing Company

The Brewers Guild of Florida (including direct, indirect and induced effects) were estimated at $301 million in 2012 and $432 million in 2013, with predictions that before long we could see as many as 500 breweries contributing to a total impact upwards of $2.5 billion.

Program to host brew release party and open house in Seminole

The director of the program, Jim Leonard, a chemistry professor at USFSP, has assembled a group of faculty and staff that will provide a full perspective understanding of what it takes to make your business a success. The program costs $5,000. Those intending on applying to the program must have prior coursework in chemistry, biology, and algebra.

On Thursday, June 8, USFSP’s Brewing Arts Program will host an open house and release party at Rapp Brewing (10930 Endeavour Road) in Seminole. Featured on tap will be a collaboratively brewed smoked chili porter. Each initial purchase comes with a free brewing arts porter glass. The event begins at 6pm.

Since 2015, 620 new craft breweries have opened in the US. Craft beer sales have experienced a 12.8% volume growth. To join this growth industry, and to learn about the program/enroll, visit USFSP’s website.