The 2024 Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show saw the launch of The Cigar Academy. This is a project by founded Ricardo Carioni and Thomas Gryson. The Cigar Academy delivers a cigar educational platform and the opportunity for certification.

“For all cigar lovers seeking authentic knowledge about the cultural heritage and artisanal tradition of the cigar world, The Cigar Academy stands as the ultimate source,” said Ricardo Carioni, Co-Founder at The Cigar Academy, in a press release. He added: “Shared and accessible knowledge is power. As such, we invite all cigar makers to join the Cigar Academy to help us scale up access to cigar education for all, from cigar professionals to policy makers and regulators. Ultimately, education is our strongest weapon against misled regulations, and to help us protect and nurture the true cigar culture of our forefathers.”

The educational platform delivers a curriculum of courses through an online Learning Management System (LMS). This in turn can lead to formal certifications from leading cigar makers.

“Our objective is clear: to provide professionals with unparalleled access to knowledge and education directly from the experts of the industry,” stated Thomas Gryson, Co-Founder at the Cigar Academy. “Through bespoke courses, crafted with precision and care, we aim to lead individuals to formal certification by the legendary cigar makers themselves,” he concluded.

Cigar Academy will offer three levels of certification. Currently, it is offering a Level 1 Award Certification. The Cigar Academy says this is geared toward newcomers and those experienced in the world of cigars. This online curriculum provides an exploration of cigar-making history, processes, and techniques.

Level 2 and Level 3 certifications planned for the future. These will build upon the foundation of Level 1, delving deeper into the history, processes, and varieties of tobaccos. These curriculums will incorporate in-person workshops, events, and hands-on training at factories and farms.

“From learning and discovery to certification, this academy, which is the academy of the cigar makers, embodies the convergence of technology and tradition, empowering accessibility, and equity for all. A new academy is born, The Cigar Academy: Learn, meet, discover, enjoy, and get certified!” concluded Carioni.

Photo Credits: The Cigar Academy