I'm a big fan of everything Micro Matic—especially their Dispense Institute and the trainers who teach the classes.
I have taken the class four times. Yup, four times - 2005, 2012, 2016, and 2024.
You know that old saying – if you keep taking the class, sooner or later, they make you the teacher. During my third visit there, I led a lesson on beer-clean glasses.
I quickly realized in my first class in 2005 that they used the class to demonstrate their equipment and supplies, and since they made quality stuff, I was drinking the Kool-Aid. I was happy to buy all the trinkets and tools; like most of you, I love gadgets.
Back then, I had yet to start my draught service company, Draught Prophets, and I found it a bit overwhelming the first time through, but looking back, I couldn’t imagine not taking the class. Building your own system for the first time was intense and rewarding. Especially pouring a pint from it at the end of day two.
One thing that was amazing about the Dispense Institute was not only the price ($625 in 2025) nor the lunches and dinner that were included, but all of the wisdom exchange that happens when you put 15 draught techs in a classroom or a bar.
That was the thing that I enjoyed the most - the chatter in the breaks and over pints during meals – the sharing of knowledge that was insightful for everyone.
Attending the Dispense Institute is the best thing you can do when starting your career as a Draft Service Technician.
Every class had a mix of newbies and veteran techs, but everyone learned a lot.
As an experienced draft service tech, you probably would know quite a bit going into the class, but I am sure you would take some more advanced techniques from the class back to your job. The instructors ramp up the knowledge based on the participants' experience.
Book It Early
The class sizes are small to ensure everyone gets to participate. Make sure to book as early as possible because these classes fill fast.