Michael Skelton has been a member of Whiskey University since July of 2022. In 2016 Whiskey University began offering Certificates, Diplomas and Degrees. Michael earned his Bourbon Diploma with Whiskey University on August 7th, 2022 with nine classes.

Michael is a United States Army Veteran who grew up in the Central Valley of California. After his time in the service, he and his now wife, Heather, whom he met while serving, moved back to California and now reside in Oakhurst, just south of Yosemite National Park with their 2 daughters. Michael has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Cybersecurity, and a Master of Science in Information Technology Management. He is currently a Senior Engineer for an IT company out of the California Bay Area and holds multiple industry certifications.

Michael has a love for whiskey in all of its forms. His passion stems from moments shared with friends and family while enjoying these spirits. He is a part of many Whiskey clubs throughout the state of California, and several spanning the globe. His passion has led to extensive research on the subject and distillery visits in countries worldwide. In the first decade of the 2000s, he began unofficially building his assemblage of distilled spirits that, while already significant, has grown substantially since joining Whiskey University.

In 2022, Michael enrolled in Whiskey University’s trainer the “Train-the-Trainers” program. He graduated on October 18th, 2022 with his Associate Degree in hand after 18 classes completed and the title “Certified Bourbon Taster”.

The impact that alcohol has had on our civilization has always been a point of fascination for Michael. From its presence at, not to mention being the cause of, some of the most prolific events in history, to the industry stories from his own lineage, some that operated on the less-than-legal side of things, his curiosity has long been piqued on the subject, and his thirst for knowledge never quenched. He continues his education through Whiskey University and now shares his passion through its teachings.

Michael now serves on the “Whiskey Founders Life Story Committee” after volunteering to research contributors that have had significant impact on the Bourbon and Whiskey Industry. He realized that learning and writing about the people who are involved with the process is just as enjoyable as learning about the “juice” itself.

On April 13th, 2023 Skelton earned his Master of Arts Degree with 50 classes at Whiskey University, and the title of "Chartered Master Whiskey Taster" and the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Bourbon Brigade.

Michael Has The Following “Designations” & Credentials:

”Chartered Master Whiskey Taster”

(from the Whiskey University)

”Certified Bourbon Steward”

(from the Stave & Thief Society)

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