**Grand Rapids Students Brew Success at Fountain Hill Brewery**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Fountain-Hill-Brewery-4226-218b9e8998e640b2a0ff4cabefa8af3d.jpg)
In an innovative approach to education, students at Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) are learning the art of craft brewing by operating Fountain Hill Brewery, a distinctive public taproom that allows them to brew and serve their own beers. This unique classroom setting is integral to the college’s Craft Brewing Certificate programme, which provides students with hands-on experience in the brewing process and taproom management.
Fountain Hill Brewery opens its doors once a week, specifically on select Thursdays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., where customers can sample a variety of craft beers created by the students. The beer offerings are complemented by appetizers prepared by chef-professors and fellow culinary arts students at GRCC. Assistant Professor Allison Hoekstra, who oversees the programme within the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education, noted that many students are showcasing their very first beer recipes during these sessions.
The students take on a multitude of roles within the brewery, from recipe development to brewing and serving their creations on draft. Hoekstra explained the logistics of the programme, stating that students brew several kegs of beer, and once one type runs out, they move on to the next. “For example, tonight, we tapped two beers for the taproom,” she remarked. This dynamic environment keeps each week’s serving experience fresh and exciting, allowing students to engage in a variety of tasks, from kegging to service.
The comprehensive curriculum offered by GRCC provides students with a thorough grounding in the brewing process. They learn about safety, sanitation, and all aspects of production, with a significant highlight being the opportunity to assume the role of “brewmaster” once they have written their own recipes. As students watch customers enjoy the fruits of their labour, it adds a practical element to their education.
The taproom attracts a varied clientele, including regular patrons, college staff, and even visitors from out of state who are keen to explore Grand Rapids’ brewing scene. Reports indicate that on any given night, the taproom can see between 30 to 80 guests during its brief opening hours, with beer prices ranging from £5 to £7 per pint. Additionally, profits generated from the brewery’s operations are reinvested into the Craft Brewing programme, while tips, which can reach 18%, are directed towards student scholarships.
In addition to selling beer on tap, the taproom is not limited to just a weekly service. It also hosts special events, fostering connections within the brewing community. For instance, the brewery has supported initiatives aimed at empowering women in the industry, such as the Pink Boots Society. The students have even expanded their offerings by selling beers to go, further engaging with the local community.
The overarching aim of the Craft Brewing Certificate programme is to equip students with the knowledge and expertise necessary to thrive in various sectors of the brewing industry. Hoekstra emphasised that no prior experience is required, making it accessible for individuals aspiring to enter this burgeoning field. The programme specifically addresses the increasing demand for skilled workers in West Michigan’s craft brewing sector, with Grand Rapids itself often referred to as “Beer City, USA.”
Over the years, GRCC has successfully produced numerous graduates who now contribute to the local brewing scene, whether by working at small breweries or engaging in roles such as draft line cleaning or retail management within the industry. Hoekstra has had the privilege of witnessing her students’ growth firsthand, and one of her highlights since teaching the course for eight years has been seeing former students flourish.
Participating in beer festivals and observing alumni proudly serving their own brewed creations at these events brings her immense satisfaction. “Getting to see that whole process, from the moment they start to when they are brewing their own recipes and serving them at a beer festival, is probably one of the things that I love the most,” she shared.
The Fountain Hill Brewery at GRCC exemplifies a remarkable educational model that enriches students’ learning experiences while simultaneously engaging the wider community in the love of craft brewing. The combination of practical training, community interaction, and creative expression not only underscores the college’s commitment to cultivating talent in this vibrant industry but also solidifies Grand Rapids’ reputation as a key player in the craft beer movement.