Distilled Spirits

Two distillers pose in front of stills brewing Tennnessee Whiskey

Distilled Spirits A.A.S

Distillers have the complex task of crafting spirits such as whiskey, brandy, rum, tequila, and vodka. For centuries, they have refined the process of distilling to produce the highest quality offerings with the flavors and aromas that define each spirit’s style. Distilling isn’t just a business; it’s a science and an art.

For decades after federal prohibition ended in 1933, the distilling industry in the US was concentrated into a very small number of very large distilleries. The number of US distilleries has jumped from 70 in 2004 to over 3,000 in 2024. In the same time period, the number of distillery employees in the US has gone from fewer than 7,000 to over 29,000.

Motlow’s Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Distilled Spirits allows graduates to immediately begin their careers upon completion of the program. No bachelor’s degree is required!

Detailed Information

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Two distillers working on brewing Tennessee Whiskey

Craft Distilling Careers Start Here

Entrepreneurial distillers have happily followed in the footsteps of small winemakers and craft brewers, greatly expanding the variety of spirits produced and marketed in the US and worldwide. Now, there are more distilling opportunities than ever before. In addition to the technical processes involved in distillation, distillers must learn about regulatory compliance and the business of spirits. Motlow’s Distilled Spirits program, offered in partnership with Nearest Green Distillery and Jack Daniel's Distillery, covers licensing and reporting, zoning, marketing, distribution and more. Come join us to get a firm foundation for a career in the distilled spirits industry.

Career Opportunities

Distiller ($18/hour)
Sommelier ($22/hour)
Bartender ($18/hour)
Tour Guide ($28/hour)
Brand Ambassador ($23.90/hour)
Master Distiller ($49/hour)

(TN averages, 2024)