IBDEAU's New Detroit Educational Facility Opens with Sold-Out Courses and Big Plans for the Future of Beverage Education
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DALLAS, June 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Beverage Dispensing Equipment Association (IBDEA) recently announced its official opening of the IBDEAU at the Leonard Bugajewski Learning Center, this past May, a one-of-a-kind, state-of-the-art training facility located in the heart of Detroit.

Developed through a visionary partnership with Leonard's Syrups, this world-class educational facility represents years of planning, investment, and dedication to the advancement of beverage and gas dispensing professionals. The center is more than just a building - it is a symbol of where the industry is headed, and a testament to what is truly possible when innovation meets commitment.

On Monday, May 5th the grand opening of the center was unveiled to provide attendees with an opportunity to tour the new learning center and see just how the IBDEAU will shape the next generation of technical leaders, fellow members, and industry educators.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony also occurred and welcomed an energetic crowd of professionals from every segment of the beverage and gas industry – signaling widespread excitement and support for the new and innovative educational hub. With its sold-out inaugural session in May and registration now open for November 2025, the IBDEAU Learning Center is already transforming how beverage professionals train, connect, and lead.

This transformation is a direct reflection of the vision and unwavering commitment of Leonard Bugajewski and the entire Leonard's Syrups family. Under Leonard's leadership, the facility was designed with true excellence at every turn. The expansive space features multiple training rooms, high-tech equipment, and fully operational draught and soda systems that mirror real-world conditions. It includes a designated gas safety training area, interactive demo labs, and flexible classrooms that can scale with the program's rapid growth.

"This academy is more than a facility, it's a force for change," said Leonard Bugajewski, CEO of Leonard's Syrups. "We've invested in creating a space that doesn't just teach the basics, but it builds professionals, it builds leaders."

A Milestone Moment for IBDEA

The IBDEA, originally known as the NBDEA (National Soda Dispensing Equipment Association) was chartered in 1970 and has spent over 50 years advancing the beverage and gas industry through collaboration, innovation, and education. The launch of this dedicated training and educational center represents a powerful new chapter in that legacy, one that firmly positions the IBDEA at the forefront of workforce development in beverage and gas services.

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"IBDEAU is where our mission comes to life," said Lenette Egan, Executive Director of IBDEA. "The learning center is proof that IBDEA is not just responding to industry change, but that we are really driving it."

What Sets the Academy Apart

At the core of the IBDEAU at the Leonard Bugajewski Learning Center are our two flagship programs, purpose-built to serve different segments of the beverage industry.

Together with four current courses and more to come in 2026 these programs highlight our commitment to delivering practical, high-impact education for our members.
  • Direct Learning: Every student installs, troubleshoots, and calibrates actual systems, not just simulations, ensuring they leave ready to apply what they have learned on the job.

  • Industry-Driven Curriculum: Courses are designed by experts and reflect the latest in beverage system technologies, gas safety protocols, and customer service expectations.

  • Small Cohorts, Big Impact: Students train in small teams for personalized instruction and high-impact results.

  • Certificate of Completion & Career Growth: Graduates receive a diploma recognized across the industry as a mark of competence, professionalism, and career readiness.

IBDEAU Programs: Draught Beverage Academy

The Draught Beverage Academy is a 4-day immersive course focused on the essentials of draught beer, wine, and liquor systems - from installation to cleaning and safety. It includes:
  • System design from tower to walk-in cooler

  • In-depth training in system balancing, CO2 safety, and troubleshooting

  • Sensory training to identify off-flavors and maintain beverage quality

  • Glassware hygiene and best pour practices

  • Final team project: install and balance a complete draught system

  • Final exam and certificate of completion

IBDEAU Programs: Dispensed Beverage Academy

The Dispensed Beverage Academy is a 3-day training intensive designed for technicians working with soda systems, carbonation, and bulk gas setups. Key topics include:
Why this Education Matters

The beverage and gas industries are experiencing rapid technological changes every day. As systems become more complex and safety standards more stringent, IBDEA sees education not as an option, but a necessity.

IBDEAU participants gain:
  • Technical Mastery: Confidently design, install, and troubleshoot systems

  • Safety Awareness: Ensure compliance and protect both customers and staff

  • Business Confidence: Present proposals, win bids, and build client trust

  • Professional Network: Join a community of peers, mentors, and industry leaders

What's Ahead: Upcoming Sessions and New Workshops

With the May session sold out, IBDEAU is preparing for several courses through November 2025. Interest is already high, and IBDEA encourages early registration.

Future classes:
  • Beverage Dispense Academy – August & September 2025

  • Advanced Troubleshooting School – August 2025

  • Draught Dispense Academy – November 2025

  • Dishwashing & Chemical School

  • Bulk CO2 Systems Training

  • Ice Machine Cleaning & Installation

Join the Movement!

The IBDEAU at the Leonard Bugajewski Learning Center is now open, and the industry is taking notice. Whether you are a technician, installer, supplier, or manufacturer, there has never been a better time to invest in your team, your business, and your future.

Access and Register for Upcoming Courses: IBDEAU

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About the IBDEA:
The International Beverage Dispensing Equipment Association (IBDEA) is a global organization committed to advancing the beverage dispensing industry through education, collaboration, and innovation. With a legacy spanning over five decades, the IBDEA serves as a trusted partner for businesses, providing the resources and support needed to thrive in an ever-changing beverage and gas market.

Media Contact:
Lenette Egan
IBDEA Executive Director
[email protected]
406-459-8132

SOURCE IBDEA
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