The Master Craftsman is the fourth and final level in the Master Beekeeper Program. In order to become a Master Craftsman Beekeeper, you must:
- Have been a Master Beekeeper for two years
- Maintain membership in NCSBA since obtaining Master Beekeeper status
- Complete an additional 7 of the 19 Sub-Specialties demonstrating excellence in beekeeping
- Earn an additional 15 Public Service Credits since becoming a Master Beekeeper
- Conduct an apiculture related research project acceptable to the NCSBA MBP committee and either the NC State Extension Apiculturist at NCSU or an agreed upon advisor affiliated with an NC university and experienced in research. Requirements for a research project submitted for approval must include, but are not limited to, practical relevance and functional utility to beekeepers, the beekeeping community and or beekeeping practices. Research must engage the candidate in a viable research experience including all appropriate and necessary research parameters associated with a standard research model. Research projects involve both an investment of time and resources. Successful completion of the research project must be recognized by both the NCSBA MBP committee and the NC State Extension Apiculturist at NCSU or the afore mentioned agreed upon NC university advisor.
- Upon completion of your research project, pass an oral exam about the research project and your overall beekeeping knowledge to be scheduled at either the NCSBA Spring or Summer Conference.
- Comply with NCSBA Mandates that only active/current members will be recognized at any MBP level.
- After January 1, 2021, a Master Craftsman candidate must successfully complete a Master Level field exam if none had been completed prior to receiving a Master Level certificate.
- Effective January 1, 2021, an article of at least 1000 words addressing all aspects of your research project, must be written and published in the Bee Buzz to complete your MC Research Project.
Materials for the Master Craftsman
In order to prepare for the Master Craftman level, the following materials are available:
- List of Valid Public Service Credits
- List of Beekeeping Sub-Specialties
- Research Project Guidelines
- Oral Exam Guide
- MBP Service Credit Reporting Form
- MBP Physical and Electronic Addresses
- Selecting a viable Master Craftsman Research Project
If you have questions, please contact mbp@ncbeekeepers.org.
Master Craftsmen
David Bridgers of Columbus County Beekeepers
Doug Galloway of Caldwell County Beekeepers
Ellis Hardison of Moore County Beekeepers
Al Herrington of Henderson County Beekeepers
Danny Jaynes of Caldwell County Beekeepers
Lane Kreitlow of Five County Beekeepers
David MacFawn, Member at Large
Paul Madren of Surry County Beekeepers
Donald Moore of Alamance County Beekeepers
Suzy Spencer of Five County Beekeepers