Twelve years ago, Carolyn Kurro, Distillery Utility Operator, found herself at a crossroads. In her early 50s, she was searching for a new career. Through a workforce development initiative called Bridges to Opportunity, a program designed to connect local residents, minorities, and older workers with careers in the skilled trades, Carolyn discovered a path she never expected would lead to Heaven Hill.

After six weeks in the program, Carolyn had to step away to care for her mother. While she couldn’t complete the program, fate intervened a few months later when she ran into the Program Manager. After reconnecting, he shared her name with Heaven Hill.

In April 2014, Carolyn joined the Bernheim Distillery and quickly immersed herself in the art of Whiskey making. Every day brought something new to learn, and before long, what had once been unfamiliar became second nature. Today, she takes great pride in helping transform grain into some of the finest distillate in the business.

The past twelve years have been filled with accomplishments, both big and small. One milestone that stands out is her third consecutive year of perfect attendance, an achievement she never thought she would reach.

“Carolyn always goes above and beyond what is required. Her work ethic and curiosity ensures that Bernheim is constantly evolving and strengthening our processes. She keeps us all in line and is a great mento,” said Abby Long, Senior Quality Control Technologist.

Carolyn’s willingness to learn and adapt has shaped her career from the very beginning. Standing at 5 foot 2, she quickly realized parts of the distillery had been designed with much taller operators in mind. Rather than seeing obstacles, she focused on solutions. By asking for help, working alongside her teammates, and finding new ways to tackle the job, she discovered that some of the greatest successes come from working together.

“Carolyn takes real pride in her work. Her dedication, positivity, and attention to detail make her an invaluable part of our team. She truly embodies the spirited commitment, Work Together to Win. We’re grateful she’s part of the team,” said Chris Morris, Distillery Supervisor.

That same spirit of service extends beyond the distillery. In her free time, Carolyn volunteers with Basset Rescue of Kentuckiana, an organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming abused, neglected, and homeless Basset Hounds across Kentucky and Southern Indiana. Each year, she also organizes a shoe drive at Bernheim Distillery, collecting new and gently used shoes to help raise funds for the organization.

Looking back, Carolyn is proud of the career she has built and the opportunities she has embraced along the way.

“I never would have imagined I’d learn how to make Whiskey this late in my career,” Carolyn said. “It’s been really rewarding to learn something completely new.”

What began as an unexpected opportunity in her early 50s has become a rewarding career at Heaven Hill, where she continues to thrive more than a decade later.