Trainees
STEPUP is a free hybrid training program that connects motivated professionals with structured learning, focused industry exposure, and meaningful career insight — so your next move is informed, not accidental.
A Clear Path Into the Spirits Industry
On-Site, Interactive Shadowing Experiences at a Distillery (Elective distributor field experience for expanded exposure)
Mentorship, Community Engagement, Career Coaching
HOW IT WORKS
Program Timeline
STEPUP is a hybrid externship that introduces participants to the spirits industry through guided online learning and structured shadowing experiences. Flexible by design, the program helps those new to the field build knowledge, direction, and confidence as they explore where they fit within the industry.
12 WEEKS
Online Learning Course
This self-paced online course is part of STEPUP’s newly redesigned hybrid program and was created specifically for those with limited or no spirits experience, with an emphasis on understanding core activities within a distillery, including operations, sales, finance, compliance, and marketing. The curriculum includes access to WSET Levels 1 & 2 certifications, along with OSHA-10 Safety Training via virtual real-time instruction, and forklift certification provided through ISTS, to support industry readiness. Scheduled “Office Hours” provide live support and space for questions.
2 DAYS
Onsite Distillery Shadowing
A two-day onsite shadowing experience places trainees inside a regional host distillery to better understand how a distillery actually runs (with an optional week-long shadowing experience with an industry-respected partner distributor). Travel, lodging, and approved transportation costs for the in-person experience are covered by STEPUP.
6 HOURS
Career Coaching
Career coaching supports trainees with resume development, interview preparation, and individualized guidance to help them explore and pursue industry opportunities with confidence.
POST-PROGRAM
American Craft Spirits Association – Membership
- 1-Year Membership to the ACSA for full networking opportunities
- Local Distillery Guild Introduction
- ACSA E-Book as an added benefit resource and guide
Apply Today By Clicking Here
Acceptance Notifications Will Be Sent May 2026
Sign up to get details on the 2027 Program Here
Eligibility
Expanding Access. Creating Opportunity.
Our trainees are passionate, motivated people who bring new voices, perspectives, and talent to the craft spirits community and spirits world.
We invite anyone to apply who:
- Is a member of a population historically underrepresented in the spirits industry
- Is a U.S. Citizen or able to demonstrate proof of eligibility to work in the U.S. with a green card or work permit/visa
- Is 21 years of age or older
- Has earned at least a high school degree or its equivalent
- Accepts a background check in states which allow
- Is willing to commit to 3-month hybrid program combining online learning and in-person observation experiences
- Agrees to follow safety protocols and procedures at each participating distillery and/or wholesaler
- Agrees to serve in a graduate alumni group
- Is willing to commit the time and energy to complete a hybrid learning curriculum, WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) Level 1 & 2 certifications, OSHA-10 Safety Training certification, Forklift certification, and shadow at a distillery
Success Stories
Hear the Empowered Voices of Our Alumni
Keyah Boyd
2025 STEPUP Graduate
Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing & Distilling Scholarship Recipient - 2026
“STEPUP is LIFE-CHANGING! I’ve been supported throughout the program and in so many areas of my life, by being connected with mentors and a strong network that still shape and motivate me today.”
Erin Lee
2022 STEPUP Graduate
Former Head Distiller at FEW Spirits/Heaven Hill
“Thanks to the training I received through the STEPUP program, I became Head Distiller at an award-winning, internationally-recognised craft distillery within just 17 months of graduating.”
Alexcia Pugh
2024 STEPUP Graduate
Bourbon Production Expert, Bulleit Distilling
“STEPUP didn’t just give me a foot in the door—it gave me space to connect, as myself.”
Erica C. Paul
2024 STEPUP Graduate
Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing & Distilling Scholarship Recipient - Fall 2024
“I gained professional and practical knowledge throughout the program, along with a broader scope on my spirit specialty, style, and signature within the spirits industry.”
With Us
Break Into the Spirits Industry Today
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the program?
The STEPUP externship is designed to be completed over the summer and includes a variety of online content from certification with WSET and ISTS through the program’s study program. It is followed by a short, in-person distillery experience where theoretical application will come alive at both a distillery and optional field experience at a partner wholesaler location. The program concludes with graduation in September. Graduation will take place upon completion of the program at a location close to the participating distilleries.
Will I be graded on the curriculum and is there homework?
The course is organized into individual modules that include mini-quizzes, flashcards, and similar learning tools. No grades are assigned; the focus is on helping trainees understand the material, with ample opportunities to ask questions during mentor office hours. Trainees will have assigned reading from the ACSA E-Book to support the curriculum, which will be provided during orientation. There are no homework assignments outside of a final capstone project.
What will I do during the distillery visit?
Trainees participate in a two-day onsite observational experience at a host distillery. This includes observing operations, learning about workflows and roles, and engaging in guided conversations with distillery staff. There is no hands-on production work.
Is this a paid externship?
No. STEPUP will, however, cover approved travel, transportation, and lodging expenses when necessary for the in-person experience.
Will this program guarantee me a job?
No. The program is designed to help trainees explore the spirits industry, build understanding, and gain confidence through education and exposure. Participants will have opportunities to build professional connections.
When does the in-person portion take place?
The two-day distillery experience takes place during the summer portion of the program, typically between June and August. Exact timing is coordinated by STEPUP and shared with trainees in advance.
What is the time commitment, and how is scheduling handled?
Online learning is self-paced with weekly milestones over the 12-week program. Virtual office hours and the in-person distillery visit are scheduled in advance, with consideration given to trainee availability whenever possible.
Who is eligible to apply?
STEPUP is open to individuals interested in exploring and entering the spirits industry who meet the program’s eligibility requirements as outlined above. Selection is based on interest, readiness to learn, and alignment with the program’s goals. No prior spirits industry experience is required.
Do I need to live near a distillery?
Preference is given to applicants residing within the primary host distillery regions, including the Northeast, Midwest, and Upper South of the United States. STEPUP will coordinate and cover appropriate transportation, travel, and lodging expenses when in-person participation requires it.
Do I need to travel for the wholesale distributor portion of the program?
The Distributorship component through Republic National Distributing Company is optional. It offers an insiders view of the wholesale ditsrbution tier and while we encourage participation, it is not necessary to attend in order to graduate from the STEPUP program.
How many modules are in the STEPUP curriculum, and do I need to complete them all?
The STEPUP curriculum consists of 10 modules. Each module includes multiple-choice knowledge checks and a quiz. All modules must be completed, and each quiz must be passed with a minimum score of 80% in order to successfully complete and graduate from the program.
Are the WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) Level I & II certifications required? What about Forklift and OSHA-10 Safety Training?
Yes. WSET Level I & II certifications, along with forklift and OSHA-10 training, are required components of the program. These certifications are valuable, industry-recognized assets that support workplace readiness and enhance the overall learning experience.
Do I need my own equipment or software to access the program?
Yes. You will need either a computer, tablet, or smartphone to access the curriculum. The program is designed to work across all platforms for ease of use. Access to the online curriculum will be provided to successful applicants once they are accepted into the program.
Are there additional tools/resources included in the program?
Yes. STEPUP has purchased copies of the ACSA e-book, which will be provided to trainees. You will also receive a free one-year membership to the American Craft Spirits Association, offering additional education and networking opportunities.
Do I need spirits experience to participate in or apply to the program?
No. You don’t need prior spirits experience—Curiosity, a willingness to learn, and dedication of time, are far more important. That said, having a favorite cocktail (or at least some curiosity about what goes into it) can make parts of the learning experience more fun and relatable. STEPUP is looking for applicants who are passionate about learning how craft spirits and distilleries operate, from production and compliance to tasting rooms—and the magic that happens on the distillery floor.
Do I need a college degree to participate?
No. While some past interns have held degrees in food science or chemistry, others have had experience in hospitality, fashion design, and other fields. Each has brought unique skill sets and perspectives. This program is designed for anyone who has a genuine passion for craft spirits and no formal secondary education is required to apply.