Whiskey University has Instructors in the Huntsville Metropolitan Area:

Map of Oklahoma with the northern counties highlighted in red.

Our faculty currently serves areas in Madison County, Alabama (395,211); Limestone County, Alabama (114,654); Etowah County, Alabama (103,436); Marshall County, Alabama (97,612); DeKalb County, Alabama (71,608); Jackson County, Alabama (52,579); and Cherokee County, Alabama (25,666); in the Huntsville Metropolitan Area

Whiskey University presents its Faculty in Huntsville Metropolitan Area:

Lt. Col. Jeff McKeel
Lt. Col. Robert Pomerenk
Lt. Col. Daniel Komm
Lt. Col. Shannon Komm
Lt. Col. Matthew Ferrara
1st. Lt. Bob Gossett

Whiskey University is also currently looking for Instructors In the Huntsville Metropolitan area

We train instructors to Teach and make Money!

If interested in finding out more with NO Obligation, click Button below and fill out Form.

Learn more

Red map outline of Alabama with the word 'Alabama' above it on a white background.

Click to see all STATE MARKETS

Lt. Col. Jeff McKeel

Email address: JeffreyMcKeel@WhiskeyUniv.com

Older man with glasses and gray hair wearing a blazer and blue shirt sitting in a living room, holding a diploma from Whiskey University. On the table in front of him are a whiskey bottle and two glasses with whiskey. There is a fireplace with a vase of dried flowers and a window with blinds in the background.

Jeff McKeel started his official studies with Whiskey University in the spring of 2022. He has been proudly learning, tasting, testing, and making his way up the ranks to a Master Bourbon Taster, Bourbon Steward, and Captain. In 2016 Whiskey University began offering Certificates, Diplomas and Degrees. Jeff earned his Bachelor of Science in Bourbon Tasting in December 2022.

Jeff is a native of California but has called Northern Alabama his home for the last 10 years after a 33-year career in Aerospace and Defense in numerous assignments and locations around the country before retiring as Director, Business Development for Missile Defense Programs in Raytheon’s Washington DC office.

He continues to enjoy spending time water skiing, hunting and metal machining and tool restoration.

McKeel earned his Associate Degree after passing 15 classes in August of 2022. In December of 2022, Jeff earned his Bachelor of Science Degree with 24 classes, at Whiskey University and the title of "Master Bourbon Taster" and the rank of Captain.

Jeff is presently pursuing his Master of Science Degree.

Jeff encourages everyone to experience and savor each expression presented to you. It’s fun to explore and find each expression’s unique characteristic while expanding your palette. There is no wrong answer to your flavor profile or what you taste. Every whiskey journey is exciting and personal, but most importantly, shared with friends and family every chance you get. Jeff looks forward to sharing a glass with you.

Jeff has the following Designations and Credentials:

“Chartered Master Whiskey Taster”

(from Whiskey University)

”Certified Bourbon Steward”

(from the Stave & Thief Society)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

A whiskey university diploma certificate with decorative borders, medals, and an emblem, recognizing Jeff McKeel as a Chartered Master Whiskey Taster, dated August 20, 2024.

Four gray circles with the labels 'Maker's Mark, Tenn Squire, 5 Keys Club, Coopers Club' and the words 'Not Enrolled' underneath each.

Seal of the Tennessee Squire Association featuring a horse and rider

Six circles with the names of different college organizations or residences, each labeled 'NOT ENROLLED.'

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Member, Monte Sano Bourbon Club

Member, Rocket City Bourbon Club

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

A graduation cap and diploma with a banner reading "Master of Arts Degree" on a brown background.

Seal for the High West Distillery, Park City, Utah, featuring a horseshoe shape with a mountain peak and the words 'High West Distillery, Park City, Utah,' along with the text 'Member of High West Club' in gray underneath.

Lt. Col. Robert Pomerenk

Email Address: RobertP@WhiskeyUniv.com

A man in a light purple shirt holding a framed certificate from Whiskey University. The certificate is for Robert Pomeranz, an Associate of Science Degree and Certified Bourbon Taster.

Robert Pomerenk's journey with Whiskey University began in September of 2023. In December of that year, he earned his Associate of Science degree, gaining the title of "Certified Bourbon Taster". Robert continued his studies and in March 2024, he achieved his Bachelor of Science degree, earning him the distinguished rank of "Master Bourbon Taster" and the commensurate officer rank of 1st Lieutenant in the "Bourbon Brigade."

A lifelong resident of West Tennessee until recently, Robert now calls Northern Alabama home after relocating a few years ago. His professional career lies in the field of cybersecurity within the healthcare sector.

On a personal note, Robert has been married to his wife Paige for 8 years. When not working, he enjoys reading, watching Alabama football, rooting for the Dallas Cowboys, and cheering on the Nashville Predators hockey team. Robert's academic background includes a B.A. and M.A. in History from the University of Memphis.

It was Michter's bourbon that first opened Robert's eyes and palate to the wonders of the bourbon world, and to this day, it remains his favorite distillery. As he continues his whiskey education, Robert looks forward to exploring and savoring new expressions while sharing his passion with friends, family, and fellow enthusiasts alike.

Robert has the following Designations and Credentials:

”Chartered Master Whiskey Taster”

(from Whiskey University)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

”Certified Bourbon Steward“

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Band of Rebels Member with LuxCo/Rebel Yell

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

A computer screen displaying a black rectangle with gold borders, with the text 'Master of Arts Degree' at the bottom in white.

A whiskey university diploma certificate featuring decorative borders, medals, and signatures, awarding Robert Pomerank the title of Chartered Master Whiskey Taster.

Four large circles containing text. The first circle says 'MAKER'S MARK NOT ENROLLED,' the second 'TEN SQUIRE NOT ENROLLED,' the third '5 KEYS CLUB NOT ENROLLED,' and the fourth 'COOPERS CLUB NOT ENROLLED.'

Wooden circular emblem with black text reading 'Member of Maker's Mark Ambassador,' featuring a laurel wreath, a star, and Roman numeral IV in the center.

Six light gray circles with black text inside each. The text in the circles from left to right reads: "WHISK THIEVES NOT ENROLLED," "KINGS CIRCLE NOT ENROLLED," "WHIS SOCIETY NOT ENROLLED," "FAMILY TREE NOT ENROLLED," "WHISK BARON NOT ENROLLED," and "HIGH WEST NOT ENROLLED."

Lt. Col. Daniel Komm

A man in a navy suit and plaid tie holding a framed whiskey university certificate, smiling in front of a shelf of whiskey bottles and glasses.

I’m a proud husband to my wife, Shannon—who somehow manages to be both my better half and a fellow faculty member at Whiskey University—and a dad to two amazing kids, Asher and Ashlyn, who keep life equal parts fun and chaotic. Since moving to the Huntsville area in 2021, I’ve fully embraced the community and can honestly say it didn’t take long for it to feel like home.

My whiskey journey also kicked off in 2021, thanks to a visit to Jack Daniel’s and a memorable introduction to their barrel proof lineup. What started as curiosity quickly turned into a full-blown passion (some might say obsession, but I prefer “dedication”). Ever since, I’ve been fascinated by the depth, history, and incredible variety found across whiskies, bourbons, and spirits. There’s always something new to discover—and I’m more than happy to volunteer for that responsibility.

Since joining Whiskey University in January 2025, I’ve earned my Master of Arts degree and am currently working toward my Commodore certification while completing all majors. Along the way, I’ve also earned my Executive Bourbon Steward certification through the Stave & Thief Society and have been named a Certified Bourbon Professional by the Council of Whiskey Masters. In other words, I’ve spent a lot of time studying… and sampling… purely in the name of education, of course.

My all-time favorite pour is the “King”—King of Kentucky Single Barrel. It’s bold, complex, and lives up to the name every time. I’ve had the opportunity to participate in several barrel picks with different groups, and I genuinely enjoy both the process and the thrill of the hunt—there’s nothing quite like finding that one exceptional barrel and knowing you’ve struck gold (or at least really good bourbon).

Outside of whiskey, I’ve spent my entire professional career working in the nuclear power industry after graduating from Mississippi State University in 2003 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. By day, I focus on precision, safety, and keeping things running smoothly. By night (and weekends), I apply that same level of attention to detail to a good pour—though the stakes are admittedly a lot more enjoyable.

Whether I’m teaching, learning, or just sharing a great bottle with friends, I’m always excited to talk whiskey and help others find their own path into this endlessly interesting world.

Daniel has the following “Designations” & Credentials:

”Chartered Master Whiskey Taster”

(fromWhiskey University)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

”Executive Bourbon Steward”

(from the Stave & Thief Society)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Member: Four Roses Mellow Moments Club

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

A wooden circular plaque with the words 'Member of Maker's Mark Ambassador' and a central design featuring a star, the Roman numerals 'IV', and decorative leaves.

A blackboard or sign with a gold border, featuring the text 'Master of Arts Degree' at the bottom.

A certificate from Whiskey University awarded to Daniel Komm, recognizing the completion of 66 courses, conferring the title of Chartered Master Whiskey Taster.

Four golf scorecard circles, each showing different golf club names and enrollment status: Maker's Mark, Tenn Squire, 5 Keys Club, and Coopers Club; all marked as not enrolled.

Text on a sign reading, 'Member of Wyoming Whiskey, Whiskey, Baron' with a large red 'W' and a decorative WYOMING word.

Six gray circles with labels in uppercase text, listing different societies or groups, some marked as not enrolled.

Seal of the High West Distillery and Saloon, featuring a horseshoe, mountain, and zigzag line, with the text "High West Distillery" and "Park City, Utah" surrounding it, and the words "MEMBER OF" above and "High West Club" below.

Lt. Col. Shannon Komm

A woman holding a framed diploma from Whiskey University, with shelves of whiskey bottles behind her.

Shannon Komm began her journey with Whiskey University in January 2025 and quickly distinguished herself as a passionate student of the craft. By October, she had earned her Bachelor of Arts in Tennessee Whiskey, and today she proudly serves as a Master Whiskey Taster and a Captain in the Bourbon Brigade.

A native of Georgia, Shannon has called Madison, Alabama home since 2021. She and her husband, Daniel, have been married for 19 years and share two children together. Outside of whiskey, Shannon is an avid Georgia Bulldogs and Atlanta Falcons fan, and she enjoys expressing her creativity through singing and playing guitar and piano.

When it comes to bourbon, Shannon’s appreciation runs deep. Her favorites include Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year and King of Kentucky, while her go-to daily pour is Leiper’s Fork Double Oak Bourbon.

Shannon has the following “Designations” & Credentials:

”Chartered Master Whiskey Taster”

(fromWhiskey University)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

”Executive Bourbon Steward”

(from the Stave & Thief Society)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Member, Band of Rebels with LuxCo/Rebel Yell

Member, Hillsboro Society with Leiper's Fork

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

A graduation cap with a diploma and tassel, symbolizing an arts degree, on a black background with a gold border, and the text 'Master of Arts Degree' at the bottom.

A certificate from Whiskey University awarded to Shannon Kommm for completing 66 courses in whiskey, with decorations and signatures.

Four circles labeled 'Maker's Mark', 'Tenn Squire', '5 Keys Club', and 'Coopers Club', each with the text 'Not Enrolled' underneath.

Six gray circles arranged in a row, each with black text inside, listing different groups: 'WHISK THIEVES NOT ENROLLED,' 'KINGS CIRCLE NOT ENROLLED,' 'WHIS SOCIETY NOT ENROLLED,' 'FAMILY TREE NOT ENROLLED,' 'WHISK BARON NOT ENROLLED,' 'HIGH WEST NOT ENROLLED.'

Seal of the Tennessee Squire Association featuring a horse with a rider, surrounded by the text 'Member of Tennessee Squire Association' and 'Tennessee Squire'.

Seal with the text 'Member of JERRY HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY' and the words 'Bardstown Society' below.

Coopers Club membership badge for Nelson's Green Brier Distillery featuring a circular green and gold design with white text.

Maj. Matthew Ferrara

Matthew has the following “Designations” & Credentials:

”Chartered Master Whiskey Taster”

(from Whiskey University)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

”Executive Bourbon Steward”

(from the Stave & Thief Society)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

A graphic with a black rectangle in the center, a gold border around it, and a gray outer frame. At the bottom, there is a gold banner with white text that reads 'Master of Arts Degree'.

Decorative certificate for Whisky University awarded to Matthew Ferrara, Master of Arts Degree with a Double Major in Whiskey History and Craft Whiskey, titled 'Chartered Master Whiskey Taster,' signed by Col. Craig Duncan, featuring whisky-themed symbols, ribbons, and a gold emblem.

Four light gray circles, each containing golf course membership information. The first circle has "Maker's Mark" and "Not enrolled." The second circle has "Tenn Squire" and "Not enrolled." The third circle has "5 Keys Club" and "Not enrolled." The fourth circle has "Coopers Club" and "Not enrolled."

Wooden Maker's Mark seal with laurel wreath, star, and Roman numeral IV, indicating 'Member of Maker's Mark Ambassador'

Tennessee Squire membership badge featuring a horse and rider silhouette and circular text around it.

Six gray circles with black text inside each, listing fictional groups not enrolled: Whisk Thieves, Kings Circle, Whis Society, Family Tree, Whisk Baron, High West.

Seal with the text 'MEMBER OF' at the top, a circular design with a stylized 'HH' in the center, and 'LIVERY HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY' around the circle. Below the seal, the words 'Bardstown Society' are displayed.

1st. Lt. Bob Gossett

A man with a beard and gray hair holding a framed diploma from Whiskey University, wearing a dark blazer and blue shirt, smiling in front of a plain beige background.

Bob has the following “Designations” & Credentials:

”Master Bourbon Taster”

(from Whiskey University)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Sign with a brown border and black center, reading 'Associate of Science Degree' in white text at the bottom.

Certificate of completion from Whiskey University awarded to Bob Gossett for being a Certified Whiskey Taster, signed by Colonel Craig L. Duncan with whiskey-themed logos and decorative border.

Four golf circles showing club names and enrollment statuses. First circle: 'Maker's Mark, Not Enrolled'. Second circle: 'Tenn Squire, Not Enrolled'. Third circle: '5 Keys Club, Not Enrolled'. Fourth circle: 'Coopers Club, Not Enrolled'.

Six circular labels with text, from left to right: Whisk Thieves not enrolled, Kings Circle not enrolled, Whis Society not enrolled, Family Tree not enrolled, Whisk Baron not enrolled, High West not enrolled.

Cities or towns in this service area for Bourbon and Whiskey Tasting Classes include Huntsville, AL; Gurley, AL; Harvest, AL; Hazel Green, AL; Madison, AL; Meridianville, AL; Moores Mill, AL; New Hope, AL; New Market, AL; Owens Cross Roads, AL; Redstone Arsenal AL; Guntersville, AL; Albertville, AL; Arab, AL; Boaz, AL; Douglas, AL; Grant, AL; Union Grove, AL; Scottsboro, AL; Bridgeport, AL; Dutton, AL; Hollywood, AL; Hytop, AL; Langston, AL; Paint Rock, AL; Pisgah, AL; Pleasant Groves, AL; Section, AL; Skyline, AL; Fort Payne, AL; Henagar, AL; Rainsville, AL; Collinsville, AL; Crossville, AL; Fyffe, AL; Geraldine, AL; Valley Head, AL; Mentone, AL; Ider, AL and Sylvania, AL.

Whiskey University has Instructors in the Huntsville Metropolitan Area:

Whiskey University presents its Faculty in Huntsville Metropolitan Area:

Lt. Col. Jeff McKeel

Lt. Col. Robert Pomerenk

Lt. Col. Daniel Komm

Lt. Col. Shannon Komm

Lt. Col. Matthew Ferrara

1st. Lt. Bob Gossett

Whiskey University is also currently looking for Instructors In the Huntsville Metropolitan area

We train instructors to Teach and make Money!

Click to see all STATE MARKETS

Lt. Col. Jeff McKeel

Jeff has the following Designations and Credentials:

“Chartered Master Whiskey Taster”

”Certified Bourbon Steward”

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Lt. Col. Robert Pomerenk

Robert has the following Designations and Credentials:

”Chartered Master Whiskey Taster”

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

”Certified Bourbon Steward﻿“

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Lt. Col. Daniel Komm

Daniel has the following “Designations” & Credentials:

”Chartered Master Whiskey Taster”

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

”Executive Bourbon Steward”

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Lt. Col. Shannon Komm

Shannon has the following “Designations” & Credentials:

”Chartered Master Whiskey Taster”

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

”Executive Bourbon Steward”

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Maj. Matthew Ferrara

Matthew has the following “Designations” & Credentials:

”Chartered Master Whiskey Taster”

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

”Executive Bourbon Steward”

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

1st. Lt. Bob Gossett

Bob has the following “Designations” & Credentials:

”Master Bourbon Taster”

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

”Certified Bourbon Steward“