The International Beverage Dispensing Equipment Association (IBDEA) has launched a new training hub in Detroit, aimed squarely at raising industry standards. The IBDEAU at the Leonard Bugajewski Learning Center opened in May 2025 with a sold-out class and big plans to shape the future of beverage system professionals — especially those working in beer, wine, and soda dispensing. This facility could prove essential for craft brewers who pour draft beer and want to ensure proper system installs, safety, and service. From the press release:
“This academy is more than a facility, it’s a force for change,” said Leonard Bugajewski, CEO of Leonard’s Syrups. “We’ve invested in creating a space that doesn’t just teach the basics, but it builds professionals, it builds leaders.”
Built for real-world training
The IBDEAU facility includes:
- Working draught and soda systems
- CO₂ safety and gas training areas
- Hands-on demo labs
- Scalable classrooms for growing demand
Each course focuses on real equipment, not simulations. Students learn by installing, balancing, and troubleshooting active beverage systems. From the press release:
“IBDEAU is where our mission comes to life,” said Lenette Egan, Executive Director of IBDEA. “The learning center is proof that IBDEA is not just responding to industry change, but that we are really driving it.”
Who it’s for
This center isn’t just for soda techs. It’s a major resource for:
- Craft breweries maintaining on-site or off-site tap systems
- Draft line installers working in bars, restaurants, or breweries
- Sales reps and account managers who need to understand system basics
- Anyone serving draft beer, wine, or soda
Course breakdown: Draught Beverage Academy
This 4-day course is a bootcamp for anyone serving draft beer, wine, or cocktails. Students walk away with a deep understanding of:
- System design from tower to cooler
- CO₂ balancing, safety, and troubleshooting
- Sensory skills to catch off-flavors early
- Glassware hygiene and ideal pour practices
- Final hands-on project and written exam
Graduates earn a recognized certificate of completion.
Why it matters for craft brewers
Draft beer isn’t just about brewing — it’s also about delivery. Improper installs, dirty lines, and gas issues can ruin beer quality. Craft brewers pouring their product at taprooms, festivals, or partner bars should know how those systems work. IBDEAU gives breweries and their staff the skills to:
- Design better taproom and bar setups
- Detect and fix line issues quickly
- Improve beer consistency and safety
- Communicate confidently with installers and techs
Upcoming course schedule (2025)
- Draught Beverage Academy – November 4-7
- Dispensed Beverage Academy – August 11-13 & Sept 30-Oct 2
- Advanced Troubleshooting School – August 14-15
- New workshops coming soon on dishwashing, bulk CO₂, and ice machines
Class sizes are limited. Registration is open at IBDEAU’s website. Bottom Line for Brewers: If you pour from a draft system, this training could protect your product, your customers, and your bottom line.
