Beer in the classroom: OSU-Cascades offers unique course
Bend is continuing to make its mark on the craft beer revolution, offering a one-of-a-kind ‘beer class” this week that’s drawn students from around the globe.
Ninkasi Brewing of Eugene and OSU-Cascades partnered to put a five-day, comprehensive class on the craft brewing industry together.
Students from all over the world came to Bend, to learn more about the business model, sustainability, marketing and how to taste beer properly.
“In about two years, I’m getting out of the military, and I’ve got to figure out what to do with my life,” said student Justin Carson, who’s stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska.
He hopes to learn more about the industry and some day work in the craft beer industry.
“The whole class has been eye-opening — there is just a wealth of knowledge,” Carson said.
Ryan Whitten of Phoenix, Arizona joined the class to find direction for his business venture in wholesale craft beer.
The program has been a roller coaster of emotions.
“There is one second where you’re looking at it, going, ‘I can really do this.’ The next minute, ‘Oh man, what am I doing?” Whitten said. “Even with the roller coaster, at the end of it, I’m actually coming out with a lot stronger convictions that, yes this is something that is doable, and something I am going to move forward with.”
Students say Bend is the perfect place to learn.
“We’ve really networked a whole lot with folks from all around the world and all around the country, so I think that it will pay off big dividends,” Carson said.
