Your Guide to USBG National Education Month

Tiffany Soles

August 12, 2025

September is the first-ever USBG National Education Month! From September 1–30, chapters nationwide will host a variety of in-person learning events—and all members can join the action online too. Whether you’re attending your local chapter or tuning in virtually, you can take part in as many educational opportunities as you like. Led by the USBG Education Committee, this month-long initiative celebrates the Guild’s commitment to growth and learning—tagged across social media with #USBGEdMonth.

Get ready to dive into some of this year’s most exciting offerings, including:

USBG MEMBER-AT-LARGE & VIRTUAL ED MONTH

Second Monday Social: September 8 at 1 PM (PT) – Join the Member-At-Large community for their Second Monday Social for a CLINK Networking Work event and to hear more about the upcoming Ed Month programming. Click here to register.
“Tasting Tuesday” – Elevate Your Tasting Notes: September 9 at 11 AM (PT) - Join Liz Pirnat, Napa Valley Wine Academy Instructor, to learn more about why writing a complete tasting note is important and how to move beyond just noting aromas and flavors. Click here to register.
“Wellness Wednesday”- Get Your Shift Together!: September 10 at 11 AM (PT) – Do you want to feel like you've got your sh*t together? How do you show up and live a stable, fulfilling life when your career is unstable and unpredictable by nature? And also encourages tequila shots on the regular? If THIS is finally going to be your year (especially if you said that last year, and the year before), this seminar led by Alison Anne of Restaurant Revolution, will jumpstart your path to success! Click here to register.
“Thirsty Thursday” – ABSINTHE: History, Mystery, & Mastering Its Mixology: September 11 at 11 AM (PT) – Absinthe Master T. A. Breaux and Spirits Storyteller Darian Everding take you on a deep dive into the maligned spirit, exploring its history, and rise to popularity, its legal status, and its relevance in cocktail culture. Most importantly, insight will be provided into its crafting, how to judge its quality, and key strategies in using it in both classic and modern cocktail mixology. Click here to register.
“Fun Day Friday” – Cocktales: The Greatest Stories Ever Told: September 12 at 11 AM (PT) – Why on earth did James Bond ruin a good martini by asking for it shaken, not stirred? Well, there's a story behind that. The history of spirits is filled with characters and drinks that are larger than life. In this entertaining seminar, Matt Ray will share a collection of some the world's best myths, legends, and even a few TRUE tales of the cocktail. Click here to register.
Recognizing and Reversing Overdose: September 22 at 11 AM (PT) – Join the SAFE Bar Network and Ellen Wirshup, Project Red, for a session on how to recognize and reverse an overdose. Participants will learn how to identify the signs of an opioid overdose and how to distinguish it from other drug reactions or alcohol overconsumption. This session will also cover how to safely and effectively respond using proven tools like naloxone. You’ll walk away with the knowledge and confidence to take action in an emergency. Click here to register.

USBG CHARLESTON

Wellness Exercise: 45 minutes of water aerobics
Narcan Training: Wakeup Carolina will host a one-hour Narcan training demonstration
Natural Soda Making: Charleston’s Park Conservancy will teach us how to make natural soda using a ginger bug

USBG CHICAGO

Know Your Shift, Know Your Rights: The Hospitality Workers’ Rights Town Hall is a worker-centered, community-powered forum designed to educate, empower, and mobilize hospitality professionals around their legal rights and workplace protections. Hosted by CHAAD (Chicago Hospitality Accountability & Advocacy Database) in partnership with USBG Chicago, this town hall brings together frontline workers, organizers, legal experts, and industry leaders for a day of learning and dialogue
Turning Tables: An immersive cocktail creation and breakdown session led by Ariel Neal of Turning Tables NOLA. This hands-on class will explore the building blocks of balanced cocktails, covering technique, flavor architecture, and storytelling, while highlighting how intentionality and cultural context can elevate drink design
Pouring Equity – Representation in Chicago’s Beverage Industry: Chicago is home to one of the most vibrant and diverse hospitality communities in the country – but that diversity isn’t always reflected behind the bar, in leadership roles, or across beverage programming. This seminar brings together voices from across Chicago’s hospitality scene for a candid conversation about representation, access, and agency in the beverage industry
Laverstoke Calling: In this hands-on educational workshop, you will experience a guided spirits tasting, a live bar technique demo, and a practical workshop to apply what you’ve learned

USBG CLEVELAND

Bordeaux Education: Kick-off Education Month with a Bordeaux Tasting and learn more about the free online Bordeaux class being offered by Napa Valley Wine Academy
Hopping into Beer!: Beer education and hop rubbing!
Education-a-rama!: Join us for a full day of education featuring discussions on Amaro, Personal Finance, Harm Reduction/Narcan training, Safe Movements, and more!

USBG DALLAS

Understanding Fernet/Amaro: Deep dive into the culture, history, and applications of Fernet and amaro
Undo the Batter: Through the lens of a clinical counselor and bartender, this seminar guides participants through a discussion and provides education on the topic of psychological safety and conflict mediation within the workplace of food and beverage professionals. Attendees will be equipped with valuable tools and insight to enhance staff well-being and welfare
Vibe Shift – Redefining Hospitality Spaces: With Gen X turning the page into the next chapter of hospitality and the Millennials following quickly behind, the models of hospitality & communal spaces are evolving. In this panel, we’ll discuss how to best plan and equip our present and future spaces, and how they will help Gen Z and Alpha utilize and experience them
Fem Leadership – Empowering Women to Own Their Authentic Leadership Styles: Aren’t you tired of being labeled as “too bossy”? Frustrated by the lack of mentorship and training for the C-suite? Exhausted from always being the only one who looks like you in the room? You’re not alone – and you’re not the problem. It’s time for change. Let’s lead with Power & Grace

USBG HAWAII

Tito’s Espresso Martini Competition & Membership Drive: Kick off USBG Hawaii’s Education Month with a jolt of caffeine and creativity! This high-energy event is more than just a competition – it’s a chance to connect with fellow industry pros, learn a few tips, and celebrate the art of the modern classic
Lunch & Learn with Maison Ferrand: Join us for an exclusive afternoon of education, conversation, and cuisine as Michael Goldman of Maison Ferrand takes us on a spirited journey through their iconic portfolio. From classic Cognacs to boundary-pushing craft spirits, this session offers a deep dive into what makes Maison Ferrand a global standout
Scandal – The Dark & Stormy Underbelly of Cocktails: Every cocktail has a story – but not all of them are pretty. Join us for an irreverent romp through the lesser-known (and sometimes totally fabricated) tales of cocktail history. From mistaken identities to marketing schemes and historical whoopsies, we’re peeling back the citrus twist to reveal the messy, murky, and marvelous myths behind some of your favorite drinks
All Suds, No Duds – Brews Clues: Hop into an afternoon of beer education with Certified Cicerone and beer specialist Bill Carl as your guide. Whether you’re a lager lover, IPA enthusiast, or just beer-curious, this seminar will break down key styles, tasting techniques, and proper service standards that every bartender should have on tap
Creative Proof – From Art to Inspiration to Imbibing: Explore the intersection of artistry and mixology in this unique USBG Hawaii event designed to stir your creative spirit. Bring your palate. Bring your perspective. Leave with a concept – and maybe your next signature drink

USBG HOUSTON

Blind Blanco: a deep-dive into tequila
Knives Out: Sharpen your knife skills and learn how to up your garnish game
Texas Whiskey Panel: What is Texas Whiskey & what makes it special? We invite Balcones, Ironroot, Garrison Brothers, and Still Austin for a moderated panel and inside look of all things Texas Whiskey
Swing Shift: Learn to stretch and work those bartender muscles
Out of Retirement: Ambassador Cocktail Competition

USBG JACKSONVILLE

Zero-Proof Innovation: This hands-on session will feature a tasting of spirit-free creations flight, while learning about fermentation, layered flavor, and house-made syrup techniques that translate into profitable NA offerings
Health & Wellness Day: Kick off the day with a Campari Day of Service community service shift, followed by a wellness fair featuring a stretch and mobility workshop, mindful mixology demonstrations, and hydration stations – all designed to reinforce sustainable self-care habits for hospitality professionals
Monday Matters – Financial Planning for the Service Industry: A certified financial planner who specializes in tipped wages will demystify budgeting, taxes, insurance, and retirement options
Clarification & Carbonation Workshop: This seminar will provide a deep-dive into milk punch clarification, force-carbonation, and draft cocktail quality assurance. Participants will work with CO2 rigs, filtration tools, and base spirits, and will leave with recipes and best practices to elevate their bar programs

USBG LAS VEGAS

Introduction to Cigars & Cocktail Pairing: An overview/introduction into the world of cigars with Master Cigar Sommelier and Weber Ranch Brand Ambassador Cristian Cepero. Cristian will discuss cigar basics and a few cocktail pairings to go along with the selected cigars
Nice Ice: Nice Ice Las Vegas will take us through a class on what it’s like to run an ice operation, what it takes, the equipment, and of course, how to chip your own sphere
Branching Out From Behind the Bar: We are bringing together the industry’s best (Bar Directors, Brand Ambassadors, Distillers, and more) for an open panel and discussion so bartenders can learn some tips and tricks if they’ve been wanting to branch out from behind the bar
Lowland and Highlands: In this seminar, you’ll learn the difference between Lowland and Highland agave and have a chance to taste some of what is used to blend Volcan Blanco and Tahona Blanco tequilas to help better understand what these various elevations and climate do for agave

USBG MIAMI

Resources at Hand: A seminar based on how to find reliable resources and often free resources that can help us with processes behind the bar. Highlighting shared spreadsheets, apps, websites/blogs, and even social media accounts to help with cocktail ideas, menu development, day-to-day operations, and managing your bar
Build Your Own Vermouth: This hands-on lab will provide botanicals and a fortified wine base for attendees to make their own vermouth
Local Legal Hour: Join Rey from Ram Law & Title for a Q&A session on the many common legal questions we may face in the industry. Highlighting issues with liability, music licensing, and local employment laws
Tripping Animals Brewery Tour: The team at Tripping Animals will lead us through a tour of their facilities, explaining the process of brewing and the history of different beer styles

USBG MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL

Story Telling: Local food writer/restaurant consultant Stephanie March will give an overview on how to best tell your story. Learn the ins and outs of effective communication to help others understand what you do, why you do it, and why they should care
Cocktail Confections: Kate Mikkelson will lead a hands-on seminar of using potent potables to make tasty treats. Tequila Sunrise gummy worms, absinthe marshmallows, and a variety of tips and tricks to incorporate your favorite spirits into fancy candies
Two-Wheel Tune-up: Angry Catfish Bicycle will walk everyone through a front to back tune-up of a bicycle. Squeaky brakes, wobbly wheels, sticky chains. . .no more!
Mental Health: Brenna McHugh will lead a seminar about mental health. How to recognize symptoms, methods to help your health, places you can reach out to for assistance

USBG NEW ORLEANS

Foams and Agar: Learn more about various foam techniques and applications of Agar
Beer Seminar and Brewery Tour: Learn more about the beer production process, various styles of beer, and enjoy a tour of a local brewery
IBA Competition Rules and Standards: Introducing IBA standards and how competitions are scored

USBG OKLAHOMA CITY

Leadership & Hospitality: Charlie Alvarado of Good for a Few discusses what Hospitality means, and how it transfers to positive leadership in the service industry, as well as outside of it
Pairing: In this hands-on session, Michael O’Hara from Black Walnut will teach his approach to pairing food and drinks, with an emphasis on identifying flavors
Italian Wine Deep Dive: Madi Franklin of Monopole Wine Co. shares her passion for the wines of Italy
Narcan Training: Education on how and when to use Narcan properly

USBG PALM BEACH

IBA Cocktail Judging: In this in-depth seminar, IBA-certified judge Felipe Castro pulls back the curtain on the official scoring criteria used in International Bartenders Association (IBA) cocktail competitions
The FUNdamentals of Functional Flair: Bring the fun back to functionality with this high-energy seminar led by the Flair Ambassador Rob Husted, Josh Gates, and Carlos Cardoso. The FUNdamentals of Functional Flair breaks down how to seamlessly integrate flair into real-world bartending – without slowing down service or sacrificing professionalism
FBA Judges Certification: Ready to take your passion for flair bartending to the next level? Join FBA President Rob Husted for the official Flair Bartenders’ Association (FBA) Judges Certification seminar and become a recognized authority in the world of flair competition
Becoming a Faster Bartender: Speed behind the bar isn’t just about moving faster – it’s about working smarter. In this session, industry pros Ron Husted, Josh Gates, and Carlos Cardoso team up to teach you how to boost your speed and efficiency without cutting corners

USBG PHILADELPHIA

The Art of Service Bar: Learn more about round-building, well mapping, and consolidating steps for success
Bar Managing Basics: Learn more about how to price cocktails, menu anchoring, cost saving, and brand negotiating
Trouble Shooting the Bar: a mechanical tutorial before you call an expert – fixing dishwashers, drains, lowboys, and more
Transitioning to Brand Work: a panel discussion of Brand Ambassadors and Sales Reps to answer your questions
Foraging: Join Danny Childs and the Bluecoat Team to forage for ingredients and learn about how to use local materials in safe, thoughtful, and efficient ways. Bluecoat will also be doing a distillation lab where we will do single passes of individual botanicals
Beyond the Bar: This panel discussion will explore ways to get involved in a variety of activities in and outside of the Guild, like competitions and other industry opportunities
Demystifying Wine for Spirit-Focused Bartenders: The legendary Eti of Skurnik Wine will be hosting a lecture and tasting aimed at taking some of the intimidation out of wine for bar professionals whose knowledge is based more on distilled spirits. We will cover wine production basics to how to choose by-the-glass offers for a spirit-focused program

USBG PHOENIX

Coffee & Cocktails Masterclass: Led by certified coffee professional, Maxwell Berlin, this immersive masterclass invites curious minds and seasoned bartenders alike to deepen their understanding of coffee’s global impact, cultural roots, and creative potential behind the bar.
Tucson Takeover – Where Can My Career Go? Panel: Wondering what’s next in your career? Hear from industry leaders who’ve moved beyond the bar while staying in the field they love. Get inspired by their journeys and gather actionable advice.
Tucson Takeover – Speed Rounds: Bite-Sized Bar Skills in 15 minutes. Think speed dating – but instead of awkward small talk, you’ll pick-up useful bar skills. Rotate through quick-hit stations focused on technique demos, bar skills, and more. Short, sharp, and packed with value.

USBG PITTSBURGH

PGH Flora Sensory & Honey Tasting Workshop with CoNectar: This class will explore the flavors of Pittsburgh’s blooming flora using the flavor wheel. Participants will apply learned descriptors to sampling of four Pittsburgh sourced honey
Water Quality for Bartenders – Sensory Tasting: Join Kevin Lloyd, Founder and Owner of Big Spring Spirits, for a unique educational program focused on water quality. This session includes a guided sensory tasting designed to help hospitality and bar professionals understand the impact of water quality on flavor. Participants will learn key terminology and techniques to identify and describe common water characteristics, enhancing their ability to make informed choices behind the bar and in beverage service

USBG RICHMOND

Yoga + Handlebars Group Ride: A yoga class for bartenders led by Jordan Reid, followed by a group ride with our chapter’s health and wellness initiative, Handlebars (our monthly+ cycling group for bartenders)
Vermouth Workshop #3: The final session in a series of monthly classes on vermouth (and other fortified wines). This class will focus on the cocktail-focused application of the fortified wines covered in the previous classes
Juices, Alternatives, and Non-Alcoholic Cocktails: A seminar covering alternatives to citrus for the acidic component in cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages, including super-juices, acid-adjusted fruit juices, and Supasawa
Laird’s Distillery Tour: A field trip to the Laird’s “secret” distillery in Albemarle County, Virginia. The tour will follow the production of their apple brandy from fruit to final product, and will be led by their Master Distiller

USBG SEATTLE

Event Organization & American Northwest: This event will feature a discussion on Event Organization by Seattle Cocktail Week, an American Northwest seminar with the Master Distiller, and a round of golf provided by Gilly Wagon
Bastyr Garden Herbalists: Enjoy a tour of Bastyr Gardens to learn more about local native and non-native medicinal plants with the guides of some spiritual herbalists
Insurance – What Is It? How Do We Get It?: An insurance broker will help prepare us for open enrollment in November, provide tips and tricks, and inform us of potential changes that may be coming for Medicade

USBG TAMPA BAY

Ice Carving 101: This hands-on seminar will cover the ins and outs of ice carving tools and techniques. Learn how to shave ice diamonds
Batched 2: An overview of what makes small batch whiskey a category and what differentiates it from the regular stock, as well as an overview of batch cocktails – the good, bad, and uglies

The Science of Mixology: An overview of crafted syrups, oleo saccharum, infusions, fat washes, and clarification. A hands-on lab will also provide an opportunity to build your own vermouth.