Community college launches wine-making, grape-growing classes

The first-ever viticulture class at Madera Community College starts March 14.

The course will be taught by Krista Vannest, an expert in Viticulture and Enology with over 20 years of experience in higher education. Students will learn the art and science behind growing grapes and making wine. The class will include field trips to nearby vineyards and wineries.

The nine-week course will cover vineyard practices, vine care, pest management, winemaking processes, irrigation methods, and industry tools and equipment. The class will be hybrid, meaning part of the class will be taught online with labs in person.

“Viticulture is an important industry in the region and contributes $57.6 billion to the State’s economy and provides more than 325,000 jobs. Madera Community College will continue to make efforts to prepare students for this field of work,” said Ganesan Srinivasan, Ph.D., Dean of Instruction.

Madera Community College seeks to grow and develop programs to meet regional needs. A recent report released by California Community Colleges found that the average community college graduate with an associate degree will see an increase in earnings of $11,100 annually, when compared to a person with a high school diploma or equivalent. Madera Community College will continue to develop programs that meet regional job needs and help students gain economic and career mobility.

To enroll, prospective students can visit maderacollege.edu/apply, or call 675-4839.