Continuing Education Opportunities
Proper training and education are key to success in most industries, and the premium tobacco industry is no exception. A retail tobacconist needs to know a number of things, from how a cigar is made to what makes each cigar in a humidor stand out. This can only be achieved through proper education, something most will not be able to get from a four-year college experience.
That’s where Tobacconist University and The Cigar Academy come in. Both offer extensive educational programs designed to give the cigar professional a formal education in all things related to the premium tobacco industry. Recognizing the importance of education in building a strong industry, the PCA has partnerships with both Tobacconist University and the Cigar Academy, offering current members ongoing learning and educational opportunities at a discounted price. Here’s how you can give your career a boost.
Tobacconist University
tobacconistuniversity.org
“Tobacconist University builds credibility, culture and community for tobacconists and consumers,” states Jorge Armenteros, founder and owner of Tobacconist University. “TU (Tobacconist University) has developed certifications to meet the needs of consumers and professional tobacconists over the last 29 years. Each serves a distinct need and purpose.”
Several of TU’s professional certifications include:
- CRT—Certified Retail Tobacconist: This is TU’s most comprehensive and professional degree for full-service brick-and-mortar tobacconists. This degree tests on Tobacco, Accoutrements, Taste, and Service College, as well as TU’s Tobacconist FAQ and the TU Glossary. The unparalleled education creates the world’s most prestigious and highly credentialed professional tobacconists.
- CCST – Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconist: Designed to serve cigar retailers, fine dining establishments, lounges, bars, event promoters, influencers and anyone seeking strong fundamentals and professional credentials recognized globally.
- CST – Certified Salesforce Tobacconist: A degree for employees of cigar distributors, brands, companies and other non-retail organizations.
“Our vision is to build and project the credibility of the luxury tobacco industry in order to support cultural acceptance around the world. Our mission is to research, learn and teach in order to educate, certify and promote the most knowledgeable and honorable tobacconists and consumers,” says Armenteros. “In that process, we provide resources for tobacconists to leverage for their customers and businesses.”
All current 3,000-plus TU Certified Tobacconists and apprentices are listed under their company and/or individual names on the TU website. Every TU Certified Tobacconist must accept their specific code of Ethics and Standards and pass the final exam with a 90% or better,” states Armenteros.
Current PCA members have access to several deals with Tobacconist University:
Retailer Membership Benefits
- One (1) free CCST certification for every one purchased – a $275 discount per certification.
- Special Bulk & Multi-Location Pricing: 20 certifications for $53 per individual.
- Special CRT Pricing: waive the $275 certification fee and the $50 online exam fee per person.
Associate & Industry Partner Membership Benefits
- One (1) free CCST certification for every one purchased—a $275 discount per certification.
- Special Bulk Pricing: 20 certifications for $53 per individual.
- Special CST Pricing: 50% discount on CST certification fee—a $250 discount per certification.
Alliance Member Benefits
- One free CCST certification for every one purchased—a $275 discount per certification.
- Special Bulk Pricing: 20 certifications for $53 per certification.
The Cigar Academy
Launched in 2024, the Cigar Academy offers a comprehensive education and certification program developed after two years of collaboration with several cigar makers. While this special curriculum was developed, the Cigar Academy also created a website to offer cigar enthusiasts online, in-person and hybrid cigar education.
The Cigar Academy’s offerings come in the form of two courses: a Level 1 Award Certification for those who are looking to either start or extend their career in the premium cigar industry, and a one-hour Cigars 101 course that covers the basics of the cigar lifestyle, perfect for beginners or those that would like a refresher before tackling the more complex Level 1 Certification program. The certification includes approximately eight hours of digital content and 14 study modules of coursework and quizzes, concluding with a final test. For those seeking a more personal experience, in-person workshops are offered at different U.S. partners throughout the year.
“The Cigar Academy offers the first formal cigar certification endorsed by top cigar makers, with a structure inspired by WSET wines and spirits,” Ricardo Carioni, co-founder of the Cigar Academy, explains. “Our courses combine decades of global cigar industry experience with insights from legendary cigar makers, farmers and artisans.”
PCA members can save half off the full Level 1 Award Certification, paying $125 rather than the full retail price of $250 for the course. Use code PCA50 at checkout to take part in this deal. Also, PCA Alliance members can access the Cigars 101 course for free as part of their membership benefits.
This story first appeared in PCA The Magazine, Volume 1, 2025. To receive a copy of this magazine you must be a current member of PCA. Join or renew today at premiumcigars.org/membership.