A West Virginia University expert said that Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin’s proclamation to make August 15–22, 2015, West Virginia Craft Beer Week demonstrates the growing importance of the industry in the state and the nation.

Tomblin announced the eight-day celebration last week to promote and support the state’s local craft breweries, pubs and restaurants.

“Craft brewing can help jumpstart the economy in the state as the popularity of the industry continues to rise,” said Bryce Capodieci, president of Morgantown’s local home-brewing club and an instructor in WVU’s Continuing and Professional Education Craft Beer Certificate Program. “West Virginia has around a dozen craft brewing businesses and that number is growing.”

The program consists of three courses that delve into the intricacies of the craft beer industry. The program also features field trips to local craft breweries and the opportunity to participate in a homebrew session.

“Proper education and hands-on learning can help both new and experienced craft brewers catapult their businesses to the next level,” Capodieci said. “There are so many aspects to study, from the business side to the process of brewing to food pairings, off-flavor analysis and water chemistry.”

Continuing and Professional Education, a division of Academic Innovation, serves adult students by providing non-credit courses that are in demand in order to provide professional development, career training and personal enrichment.

More information about the Craft Beer Certificate Program or other courses offered is available at http://continuinged.wvu.edu or 1.800.253.2762.

Capodieci is available to offer commentary to the media. He can be reached at 979.204.5138 or brycecapodieci@gmail.com.

West Virginia University experts can provide commentary, insights and opinions on various news topics. Search for an expert by name, title, area of expertise or college/school/department in the Experts Database at WVU Today.

-WVU-

ms/08/18/15

CONTACT: University Relations/News
304.293.6997

Follow @WVUToday on Twitter.