Bourbon Production Engineering: Teaching Chemical Engineering Concepts Through a Course on America’s Native Spirit

Authors

  • Sarah A. Wilson University of Kentucky, United States
  • Bradley J. Berron University of Kentucky, United States
  • Anastasia Hauser University of Kentucky, United States

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18260/2-1-370.660-136752

Abstract

The bourbon production engineering course offers a comprehensive overview of chemical engineering to non-engineers. It emphasizes chemical engineering concepts such as material balances and mass transfer, making these concepts accessible and engaging. Students learn through targeted lessons on each unit operation and practical examples from grain to glass in the bourbon production process. The course effectively connects theoretical fundamentals to real-world applications, benefiting over 100 students from diverse backgrounds.

Accessibility Summary:

In accordance with Title II regulations this content meets all points of exemption as Archived web content and/or Preexisting conventional electronic documents.

Author Biographies

Sarah A. Wilson, University of Kentucky, United States

Sarah A. Wilson, PhD, PE, is an Assistant Professor in Chemical and Materials Engineering at the University of Kentucky. She earned her BS from Rowan University and PhD from the University of Massachusetts. Her research aims to understand and improve mental health in engineering, with a focus on interventions aimed at improving help seeking. She has co-developed workshops on the importance of mental health in engineering that have been offered to faculty and students nationally.

Corresponding author: s.wilson@uky.edu

Bradley J. Berron, University of Kentucky, United States

Bradley J. Berron, PhD, is the Research Director at the University of Kentucky’s James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits, coordinating the university’s research initiatives with over twenty distilleries and various industry partners. Dr. Berron’s research is at the forefront of bourbon innovation, leading multiple projects aimed at advancing industry sustainability, optimizing barrel yield, and enhancing overall distillate quality. Dr. Berron holds a BS from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and a PhD from Vanderbilt University.

Anastasia Hauser, University of Kentucky, United States

Anastasia K. Hauser, PhD, is a Lecturer in Chemical and Materials Engineering at the University of Kentucky. She earned her BS and PhD from the University of Kentucky. She has industry experience in pharmaceutical development and returned to academia in spring 2020. Her research interests include learning in teams, engineering education, and pharmaceutical development.

Cover for the Winter 2025 issue

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Published

2024-12-28

Issue

Vol. 59 No. 1 (2025): Winter 2025

Section

Manuscripts