October 26, 2025

Central New Mexico Community College Partners with Rio Bravo Brewing for Craft Beer Certification

Albuquerque, October 26, 2025

Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) has partnered with Rio Bravo Brewing Company to launch a new craft beer production certification program. This initiative is designed to equip students with skills in brewing techniques, business operations, and food safety, responding to the growing craft beer industry in New Mexico. The program will start in the spring semester and offer hands-on learning experiences at Rio Bravo’s facilities, addressing workforce demands and preparing graduates for immediate employment.

Albuquerque, NM – Central New Mexico Community College Partners with Rio Bravo Brewing for Craft Beer Certification

Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) has launched a new partnership with Rio Bravo Brewing Company to introduce a craft beer production certification program. The initiative, announced on October 26, 2025, focuses on equipping students with essential skills in brewing techniques, business operations, and food safety. This program responds to the expanding craft beer industry in New Mexico, providing targeted training to meet local workforce demands.

The certification aims to prepare graduates for immediate employment in Albuquerque’s dynamic economy. Hands-on learning will occur at Rio Bravo’s facilities, allowing students to gain practical experience alongside theoretical instruction. The first group of students will start in the spring semester, marking the beginning of what could become a key educational pathway for aspiring brewers.

Program Details and Structure

The curriculum covers core aspects of craft beer production. Students will learn advanced brewing methods, including fermentation processes and quality control. Business operations training will include inventory management, marketing strategies for small-batch producers, and regulatory compliance. Food safety modules ensure adherence to health standards, which are critical in the beverage industry.

Classes will combine classroom sessions at CNM with practical workshops at Rio Bravo’s brewing site. This dual approach allows participants to apply concepts in real-world settings. The program duration is designed to fit within a single semester, enabling quick entry into the job market. Enrollment details will be available through CNM’s registration portal in the coming weeks.

Industry professionals have noted the partnership’s potential to set a standard for vocational programs in emerging sectors. By aligning education with local business needs, the collaboration addresses skill gaps that have hindered growth in New Mexico’s craft brewing scene.

Broader Context in Workforce Development

This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts by institutions like the University of New Mexico (UNM) to emphasize practical training. UNM has recently expanded programs in applied fields, contributing to regional workforce enhancement. Together, these developments signal a shift toward vocational education that supports economic vitality in Albuquerque and beyond.

New Mexico’s craft beer sector has seen steady expansion, with breweries contributing significantly to tourism and local commerce. The state now hosts over 100 craft operations, generating thousands of jobs. However, the lack of specialized training has been a barrier for new entrants. CNM’s program steps in to fill this void, offering accessible education to diverse applicants, including recent high school graduates and career changers.

Albuquerque’s position as a hub for craft beverages makes it an ideal location for such a program. The city’s breweries attract visitors from across the Southwest, fostering a supportive environment for innovation. Participants in the certification can expect networking opportunities with established producers, potentially leading to internships or entry-level positions.

Economic Impact and Future Outlook

The partnership underscores the importance of community colleges in driving economic progress. By creating pathways to stable careers, programs like this one help retain talent in New Mexico. Graduates may find roles as brewers, production assistants, or quality assurance specialists, with average starting salaries in the field around $40,000 annually.

Looking ahead, the success of the initial cohort could lead to program expansions, such as advanced certifications or partnerships with additional breweries. This model of education-industry collaboration may inspire similar initiatives in other growing industries, like distilling or sustainable agriculture.

Prospective students should monitor CNM’s announcements for application deadlines. The program’s launch reflects a proactive approach to education, ensuring New Mexico remains competitive in the national craft beer landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the new program launched by Central New Mexico Community College?

Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) has partnered with Rio Bravo Brewing Company to launch a new craft beer production certification program.

What skills will the craft beer production certification program teach?

The program trains students in brewing techniques, business operations, and food safety.

When does the first cohort of the program begin?

The first cohort begins in spring.

Where will hands-on sessions take place?

Hands-on sessions will be at Rio Bravo’s facilities.

How does this program relate to other educational efforts in the area?

This move comes amid UNM’s similar pushes into practical training, bolstering the region’s workforce development.

Key Features of the Craft Beer Production Certification Program

Feature	Description
Skills Trained	Brewing techniques, business operations, and food safety
Start Date	Spring semester
Hands-On Location	Rio Bravo’s facilities
Industry Focus	New Mexico’s growing craft beer industry needs
Related Efforts	UNM’s pushes into practical training for workforce development