8790562 - Beverage Production, Operations and Fermentation Bioprocessing Technician Program
Course Description
San Diego is recognized for its craft beverage innovation and small-batch production industry. MiraCosta College’s hands-on Beverage Production & Operations Technician Program prepares students for entry-level careers in beverage manufacturing, brewing operations, packaging, quality assurance, and production environments through industry-driven, applied training. This 212-hour, hands-on program provides real-world experience in beverage production systems, fermentation processes, packaging operations, sanitation, and quality-focused manufacturing practices. Students train in MiraCosta College’s Technology Career Institute production facility while gaining exposure to workflows across breweries, beverage manufacturers, and related production environments. Students are introduced to foundational industry systems including Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) awareness, sanitation and safety protocols, batch documentation concepts, and quality assurance principles. Instruction also includes exposure to HACCP food safety awareness and lean manufacturing concepts such as 5S and continuous improvement as applied in production settings. Students develop skills in brewing and fermentation operations, packaging and canning systems, sanitation and safety procedures, quality assurance and control practices, production troubleshooting, process operations, team-based manufacturing workflows, and industry-standard equipment and documentation practices. The program includes San Diego industry tours, networking opportunities, and exposure to beverage production sectors such as brewing, kombucha, cold brew coffee, and small-batch beverage operations. Guest speakers and demonstrations may be included to expand awareness of adjacent production pathways. Students complete a minimum of 80 hours of work experience with an industry partner, providing applied experience in production, quality, and workplace readiness skills while building professional connections. This program prepares students for entry-level roles in beverage production, brewing operations, packaging and canning, production technician roles, quality and sanitation support, food and beverage manufacturing and process operations. Graduates gain technical, operational, and workplace readiness skills aligned with San Diego’s evolving production and manufacturing workforce, with transferable skills across multiple industrial sectors.