With Skolnik Industries’ Chicago headquarters and stainless steel wine barrel production located in heart of the Midwest, we were very excited to hear the news about what will be a first for the region. Lake Michigan College in Berrien County, MI will soon offer degrees in wine making and grape growing. The wine industry has an economic impact of around $300 million a year in Michigan. The college wants to make sure students are prepared for this booming business. It’s called the Great Lakes Wine Institute. Starting in the fall, students can pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree in wine making or the production of grapes. The college has a small winery with various pieces of equipment on campus. Students will also be able to get hands-on experience at nearby vineyards. Plus, they can do internships at local wineries or others overseas. The program also includes other aspects of the industry including sales, marketing, distribution and business management. The president of Lake Michigan College believes this institute will help create new jobs, not just in the wine industry but also in the hospitality and tourism industries. Hiring local, qualified people to work in the wineries has become a challenge. The institute will change how wineries looks at job applicants. The hands-on experience and winemaking opportunities will make graduates of the college’s program stand out. Lake Michigan College plans to have a new facility on campus with more room for production. Plus, they want to, one day, have a vineyard and a tasting room on site.
Skolnik Newsletter Wine