Bell's Brewery is partnering with Kalamazoo Valley Community College and Western Michigan University to give students experience in four of the brewery's key departments.
Through the new Bell's Brewery Development Award the Comstock-based brewer has created a position that will give the award winner hands-on experience in all aspects of production.
Over the course of one year, students will rotate through and learn about Bell’s Quality, Brewing, Packaging and Brewing Innovation departments at its main brewery in Comstock.
“Talent continues to be in high demand within the brewing industry and by partnering with these two educational institutions, we are able to inspire candidates who not only have a shared passion for Brewing Science but also roots here in Michigan,” says Carrie M. Yunker, Bell’s Director of Human Resources.
The
WMU and KVCC brewing program was developed in 2015 by the two schools working in close coordination with the industry. The resulting program in sustainable craft brewing offers students the opportunity to earn a certificate or associate degree at KVCC, then move on to a Bachelor of Science degree at WMU.
John Mallett, Bell’s Director of Production, Stephanie Blodgett, Bell’s Talent Acquisition Coordinator, and Yunker, developed this new program with Mike Babb, KVCC Sustainable Brewing Instructor, and Steve Bertman, WMU Department of Chemistry Professor.
“Bell’s has put together a thoughtful and generous position for someone to get hands-on experience in all aspects of production at a thriving and world-renowned craft brewery. That they are reserving this position for someone from our program is a recognition of the care and rigor that we have incorporated from the very beginning,” says Bertman.
“Partnering the strengths of the two largest institutions of higher education in Kalamazoo with the incredibly experienced and diverse breweries in the area provides a great structure for students who are interested in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of the industry.”
WMU and KVCC will start accepting submissions in January for the position. The final day to apply will be March 1 and the internship will begin on April 30.
Those selected must have a completed a KVCC Sustainable Brewing Certificate. The program is available exclusively to KVCC and WMU students.
Source: Bell's Brewery
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.