Cannabis is complex, and people seek it out for various reasons and desired effects. Unfortunately, millions of customers are receiving incorrect, inaccurate, or just plain made-up guidance on which cannabis products to buy, what constitutes true cannabis quality, or how to find the right cannabis products. This often leads to unpleasant user experiences, misinformation, health and safety issues, as well as ongoing stigma for the industry.
The purpose of Ganjier is to be the voice for quality in the cannabis space. As a Ganjier student, you will be educated in the history, science, botany, genetics, cultivation, processing, sales, and consumption of cannabis. Full Certification Pathway students also receive hands-on training in assessing and grading cannabis flower and concentrate quality using Ganjier’s proprietary Systematic Assessment Protocol®.
Additionally, the Ganjier student is trained in our signature Customer Interaction Protocol™. With time and practice, this knowledge and skill-set prepare the Ganjier to be a trusted and reliable guide for cannabis consumers at every experience level, from novice through connoisseur.
The Roles & Responsibilities of a Certified Ganjier
- Be a trusted guide for cannabis consumers
- Perform critical discernment of cannabis quality
- Inform retail buyers of what to expect
- Curate individual selection menus for dispensaries and purveyors
- Educate dispensary managers, staff, and budtenders
- Establish and maintain a trusted rapport and be a liaison between cultivator and seller from farm to flame
- Develop lexicon to communicate standards, values, and quality more effectively and consistently across all industry sectors from consumers to producers
- Create the setting/environment to enhance experience
- Raise the standard of excellence and consistency in cannabis quality
- Elevate the credibility of cannabis by having a credentialed professional on staff
There are 3 steps to become
a Certified Ganjier (CG)
Step 1:
Complete the online courses
The Certified Ganjier Online Training Curriculum – Step #1 on your journey towards earning your Certified Ganjier status has been designed to equip you with the multidisciplinary knowledge and astute professionalism necessary towards raising the standard of excellence throughout the cannabis industry. This rigorous, advanced, online training includes 10 online courses, 31 lessons, and features all 18 members of the Ganjier Council.
Course #1: The History of Cannabis & Cannabis Consumption
Lessons:
- In Search of the Origins of Hash with Frenchy Cannoli
- Spiritual, Mythological, & Historically Practical Uses with Swami Chaitanya
- Prohibition to Present with Dr. Amanda Reiman
Course #2: The Botany of the Cannabis Plant
Lessons:
- Foundational Cannabis Botany with Mel Frank
- Exploring Trichomes with Frenchy Cannoli
Course #1: The History of Cannabis & Cannabis Consumption
- In Search of the Origins of Hash with Frenchy Cannoli
- Spiritual, Mythological, & Historically Practical Uses with Swami Chaitanya
- Prohibition to Present with Dr. Amanda Reiman
Course #1: The History of Cannabis & Cannabis Consumption
- In Search of the Origins of Hash with Frenchy Cannoli
- Spiritual, Mythological, & Historically Practical Uses with Swami Chaitanya
- Prohibition to Present with Dr. Amanda Reiman
Course #1: The History of Cannabis & Cannabis Consumption
- In Search of the Origins of Hash with Frenchy Cannoli
- Spiritual, Mythological, & Historically Practical Uses with Swami Chaitanya
- Prohibition to Present with Dr. Amanda Reiman
Course #1: The History of Cannabis & Cannabis Consumption
- In Search of the Origins of Hash with Frenchy Cannoli
- Spiritual, Mythological, & Historically Practical Uses with Swami Chaitanya
- Prohibition to Present with Dr. Amanda Reiman
Course #1: The History of Cannabis & Cannabis Consumption
- In Search of the Origins of Hash with Frenchy Cannoli
- Spiritual, Mythological, & Historically Practical Uses with Swami Chaitanya
- Prohibition to Present with Dr. Amanda Reiman
Course #1: The History of Cannabis & Cannabis Consumption
- In Search of the Origins of Hash with Frenchy Cannoli
- Spiritual, Mythological, & Historically Practical Uses with Swami Chaitanya
- Prohibition to Present with Dr. Amanda Reiman
Course #1: The History of Cannabis & Cannabis Consumption
- In Search of the Origins of Hash with Frenchy Cannoli
- Spiritual, Mythological, & Historically Practical Uses with Swami Chaitanya
- Prohibition to Present with Dr. Amanda Reiman
Course #1: The History of Cannabis & Cannabis Consumption
- In Search of the Origins of Hash with Frenchy Cannoli
- Spiritual, Mythological, & Historically Practical Uses with Swami Chaitanya
- Prohibition to Present with Dr. Amanda Reiman
Course #1: The History of Cannabis & Cannabis Consumption
- In Search of the Origins of Hash with Frenchy Cannoli
- Spiritual, Mythological, & Historically Practical Uses with Swami Chaitanya
- Prohibition to Present with Dr. Amanda Reiman
Course #1: The History of Cannabis & Cannabis Consumption
- In Search of the Origins of Hash with Frenchy Cannoli
- Spiritual, Mythological, & Historically Practical Uses with Swami Chaitanya
- Prohibition to Present with Dr. Amanda Reiman
Course #3: The Science of Cannabis
Lessons:
- The Endocannabinoid System and Beyond with Dr. Jeffrey Raber
- Mythbusting Cannabis with Dr. Amanda Reiman
- Interpreting the CoA & Decoding Terpenes with Josh Wurzer
Course #4: The Art & Science of Cannabis Cultivation
Lessons:
- The Splendor of Sungrown with Swami Chaitanya
- Achieving Quality in Mixed Light & Indoor with Kevin Jodrey
- Terroir & Appellations of Origin with Genine Coleman
Course #5: Cannabis Processing Methodology
Lessons:
- Processing Quality Cannabis with Patrick King
- Understanding Solvent Based Extracts with Dr. Jeff Raber
- Defining Solventless Concentrates with Nikka T
Course #6: Unraveling the Mysteries of Cannabis Genetics
Lessons:
- The Past, Present, & Future of Breeding with Kevin Jodrey
- Chemotaxonomy – An Olfactory Odyssey with Alec Dixon
- Deciphering the Role of Terroir with Justin Calvino
Course #7: Accurately Assessing Cannabis Flower & Concentrates - Introduction to the Systematic Assessment Protocol™
Lessons:
- Developing a Cannabis Palate: The Science of Taste & the Lexicon of Flavor with Madame Cannoli
- Accurately Assessing Cannabis Flowers with Swami Chaitanya
- Accurately Assessing Traditional Hashish with Frenchy Cannoli
- Accurately Assessing Cannabis Concentrates with Nikka T
Course #8: Contemporary Cannabis Consumption Options
Lessons:
- Savoring Solventless: Then & Now with Nikka T
- Topicals, Tinctures, Edibles & More with Wendy Kornberg
- Traditional & Modern Methods of Enjoying Hashish with Frenchy Cannoli
Course #9: Artfully Executed Cannabis Service
Lessons:
- Active Listening with Omar Figueroa
- Maintaining Legal Compliance with Omar Figueroa
- Introduction to The Consumer Interaction Protocol™ with Dr. Amanda Reiman
- The Foundations of Etiquette with Nikki Lastreto
Course #10: The Business of Successful Cannabis Sales
Lessons:
- Curating a Successful Menu with Aaron Varney
- Managing Inventory with Aaron Varney
- Sales and Service with Aaron Varney
Step 2:
Attend the 2-day Live Training Session
While the online portion of the Ganjier curriculum is tailored to provide you with the necessary knowledge to become a successful Ganjier, the Live Training has been designed to equip you with the appropriate skills. Conducted in the heart of the Emerald Triangle (Humboldt County, CA) on our lush 250 acre wilderness campus, this intensive 2-day training session is a crucial step on your journey towards becoming a Certified Ganjier.
Service
The first half of our initial day of training will focus exclusively on Service. A hallmark of our service training is the Customer Interaction Protocol (CIP). The CIP was developed exclusively for the Ganjier by a team of top cannabis experts, entrepreneurs and artisans to help guide Ganjiers in conversing with consumers; specifically, the questions to ask and information to gather in order to facilitate an optimal experience. Next, we’ll review the “Demeanor of the Ganjier” to discuss proper attitude, the importance of team education, and techniques for resolving problems with customers.
Assessment
The balance of the 2-day Live Training session will be dedicated to the art and science of accurately assessing cannabis flowers and concentrates. Each student will receive their very own Ganjier tool kit. The tool kit includes a professional quality, triplet lens jeweler’s loupe, in addition to a specially tailored terpene training kit.
Together with our instructors, we’ll review each and every aspect of the Systematic Assessment Protocol in detail. You will learn how to properly use your jeweler’s loupe to identify critical visual aspects of cannabis quality. Additionally, we will review and utilize palate training exercises that will assist you in perfecting your ability to detect, identify, and describe the richly detailed world of cannabis aromas and flavors.
Expert-Led Live Training in the Heart of the Emerald Triangle
Ganjier live assessment training sessions are conducted amongst the breathtaking redwood forests of Humboldt, California, both in the classroom and in the field, led by renowned and respected experts from the Ganjier Council. Costs and responsibility for meals, accommodation, and travel are incurred by the student. Details on lodging, and travel options will be provided upon registration. Please scroll to the FAQ section below for further information.
“I’m back from Southern Humboldt still BUZZING from the experience! Having access to such a meticulously curated palate of expert minds was beyond anything I could imagine. The connections and lifelines I forged with my mentors and cohorts during those two days will assuredly lead to brighter outcomes for my goals!”
– Morgan S., 2021 Ganjier Candidate
Your Two-Day, Expert-Led Ganjier Live Training Sessions Include:
- In-Depth Exploration of the CIP: Customer Interaction Protocol™
- Cannabis Service Roleplay Simulation
- A Customized Ganjier Terpene Kit and Professional Grade Jeweler’s Loupe
- An Exclusive Tour of a Working Regenerative Cannabis Farm
- In-Depth Exploration of the Systematic Assessment Protocol® (SAP) App
- Aroma, Appearance, Taste and Quality Cannabis Assessment Tutorials
- And more…
Step 3:
Study and Practice
Step 3:
Study and Practice
Now that you have been equipped with the knowledge and skills, it is time to prepare for your exams. This step should not be underestimated, the three exams to become a Certified Ganjier will be comprehensive and rigorous.
Study the knowledge contained within the online courses until you have become deeply familiar with each topic. Read the supplemental materials recommended within the courses. Own the knowledge.
Practice utilizing the Systematic Assessment Protocol™. While the SAP has been designed so that anyone may enjoy its benefits, only the well-trained and highly practiced Ganjier will have the skills to leverage the tool to its fullest and most accurate potential.
Practice the art of successfully applying the Customer Interaction Protocol™. Continued application of the principles learned in the CIP™, either through practical workplace use or through the role play exercises, will sharpen your ability and prepare you for the day of the exam.
Step 3:
Successfully Pass the In-Person Written, Service, and SAP Exams
The three exams to become a Certified Ganjier will not be easy to pass. To become a Certified Ganjier will require you to demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge and skills that you’ve acquired.
As a matter of convenience and financial flexibility, you are eligible to book your Exam date immediately following your 2-day Live Training. However, we STRONGLY recommend that you return home after your 2-day in-person live training to STUDY and PRACTICE prior to booking your exam date.
The exams are thorough and rigorous. We recommend that you only book your exam date when you are fully confident that you are properly prepared.
Written Exam: A rigorous milestone that delivers on the standard that Ganjier aims to deliver – in person, closed book.
This 100 question, multiple choice exam, will include questions from the knowledge checks that were found in the online portion of the curriculum. A score of 90% or greater will be required to pass this exam.
Service Exam: The Service exam will consist of a single role play scenario with an exam administrator. The scenario will last approximately 20 minutes. During this time, the aspiring Ganjier will utilize the Customer Interaction Protocol™ to identify the desired goals and outcomes of the customer.
Generic product props will be available for the role play scenario. The student will not be asked nor required to memorize the available products. Rather, the student will rely upon their knowledge of product category types (coupled with the desired outcome, quality, and budgetary requirements of the customer) to make a suitable recommendation.
Pass or Fail will be determined exclusively by the exam administrator. The exam administrator will notify the student immediately following the Service exam. Should the student fail the exam, the exam administrator will explain the exact reasoning behind the decision as well as offer guidance for improvement.
Assessment Exam: The Assessment exam has been designed to confirm the aspiring Ganjier’s ability to accurately assess cannabis flowers and concentrates utilizing the Systematic Assessment Protocol®.
The student will be assigned to assess an unidentified and blindly selected flower sample that has been pre-assessed by the Ganjier instructors. Examination samples will represent a broad range of quality, aroma, and flavor classes. Your ability to accurately assess and grade the sample will be required to pass this exam.
Each and every criteria within the Systematic Assessment Protocol® will be reviewed for accuracy. A two point range of acceptability will be afforded for the criteria that are rated on a scale of 1-10. An allowance of “one step” in either direction will be afforded for the criteria that are identified (not rated). Students are allowed to miss no more than ONE criteria in each of the four categories in order to successfully pass this exam.
Certification: Certified Ganjier (CG)
Once these 3 steps have been successfully completed, you will be awarded your Certified Ganjier status which grants you the title of ‘Certified Ganjier’, the honor of wearing the Certified Ganjier pin, and the privilege of including the initials ‘CG’ after your name to indicate your professional trade certification status.
What Ganjier Students Are Saying
Ricky Williams l Former NFL Running Back l Cannabis Entrepreneur l Ganjier Student
- Jessilynn Dolan, RN l Certified Ganjier
- Madame Cannoli l Ganjier Instructor
- Matthew Snell l Risk Management Consultant l Certified Ganjier
– MD Cannainsider
- Dwayne Bisson l Manager, Sales & Education, Reef Organics l Certified Ganjier
– Daniel F.
Tuition
The Ganjier “Full Certification Pathway” Includes:
- Certified level Online Training Materials
- Access to The SAP™ App
- Customized Ganjier "Palate Training KIt" and professional quality Ganjier jewelers loupe
- 2-day live hands-on training in Humboldt County, California
- 3-part exam covering cannabis knowledge, cannabis service, and cannabis assessment protocols
Full Certification Pathway - $3,299
Payment Options:
- $3,299 in full
- Spread over 3 payments of $1,100 each
- With Scholarship Applied (50% tuition discount): $1,650
- (this option may also be spread out over 3 payments)
We’ve created this pricing structure to best meet the needs of our students and provide the most flexible and affordable options possible. Should your financial needs require additional attention outside the current structuring, please contact us by opening a ticket with our support team: info@ganjier.com or by visiting this page and submitting a request for help.
Applications will CLOSE on February 28th!
With the overwhelming demand we’ve experienced over the past two years, our admissions process has become quite competitive. Be assured, each and every application is thoughtfully weighed and carefully examined.
Final acceptance notifications will be sent by no later than March 17th.
OR, you can break up your Ganjier journey into two parts:
Applications are OPEN!
FAQs
Everyone over the age of 18 years is welcome to apply to begin their journey towards becoming a Ganjier. We have students from all over the globe who have enrolled and attended our live training sessions in Humboldt County, California.
It is strongly recommended that all candidates have a significant amount of existing cannabis experience.
However, to become a Certified Ganjier requires a keen sense of smell and taste. If you have known issues or problems with your sense of smell and / or taste, this may impact your ability to pass the Assessment exam. Having the ability to be trained to accurately assess the qualitative and desirable aspects of cannabis is a critical component of becoming a Certified Ganjier. If you are unable to pass any of the three exams, including the Assessment exam, you will NOT be awarded certification.
Applications are currently closed. Please join the Interest List for future availability.
The Ganjier Full Certification Pathway costs $3299, and includes ALL THREE STEPS to become a Certified Ganjier: the online curriculum, in-person training, and 3-part exam. You can also purchase each step in the Ganjier Certification process separately, which is $799 for the “First Step / Online Curriculum”, and $2,999 to “Complete My Journey” which includes the Live Training & Exams ( 2-day in-person training, 3-part exam).
Due to the Live Training aspect of the curriculum, as well as the three in-person certification tests, travel to Humboldt County, California, will be necessary to complete your certification.
Students are responsible for costs incurred for travel and lodging (some establishments provide discounted rates exclusively for Ganjier students – be sure to inquire when booking). Upon registration, you will be provided with detailed accommodation and travel options to the region.
Our 2-day, expert-led, in-person trainings are held monthly on our spectacular 243 acre campus located in the heart of California’s “Emerald Triangle” region from May-October. See the Booking Calendar above for available dates..
We are offering a limited number of tuition scholarships for the Full Certification Pathway. The scholarship will cover 50% of the tuition and is being offered to anyone who has been directly and negatively impacted by the “War on Drugs”.
Additionally, we offer flexible payment plan options for those who wish to spread the cost of the tuition over multiple payments.
To learn more about our scholarships or payment options, please contact info@ganjier.com
You may change EITHER your Live Training or Exam date (but not both) ONCE within 18 months of booking at no charge.
Additional changes will result in a $275 rescheduling fee.
Attendance confirmation is required 30 days prior to your booked Live Training and / or Exam dates.
ANY and ALL cancellations made within 14 calendar days of your booked Live Training or Exam date will result in a $275 rescheduling fee.
Should you have to cancel, you must do so in writing to: info@ganjier.com
There are several core differences.
The Ganjier program has been modeled after the top sommelier schools.
There are three steps to become a Certified Ganjier:
Step 1 – Complete the Online Training
Step 2 – Attend the 2-day, In-person, expert led Live Training
Step 3 – Pass the In-Person Written, Service, and SAP™ Exams
The Ganjier program has been specifically tailored to equip the student with the knowledge and skills to be a “cannabis sommelier”, a Ganjier.
As an example, while we have a “cultivation” course in this program, it is not designed to teach the student how to grow cannabis. The cultivation course teaches the student about each of the decisions that the grower makes that affect the end quality of the flower. We discuss the qualitative differences between sungrown vs lamp grown, chemical vs organic / living soil, drying only vs drying and curing, etc.
Each of the courses in the initial level of the Ganjier curriculum have been tailored to train “a master of cannabis service”, someone who will be a trusted and reliable guide for the cannabis consumer.
We foresee roles and opportunities for the Ganjier correlating closely to that of the Certified, Advanced, and Master levels of wine sommeliers. That said, it will ultimately be up to the Ganjier how they choose to leverage the knowledge and skill set they acquire through our program.
The Certified level has been designed to provide a deep foundational knowledge and skill set, primarily (but not exclusively) to equip the Ganjier for a customer facing role…just like a Certified wine sommelier.
https://www.somm.us/sommelier-job-description/
The Advanced level will be tailored to further the knowledge and skills to equip the Advanced Ganjier for consultation services and / or a role at any level of the production, processing, sales, service, tourism, marketing…or perhaps, an entrepreneurial venture.
The Executive level will be for large scale facility management, fully vertical operations, etc.
Here is a brief list of a few of the roles we’ve identified for the Certified Ganjier….
DISPENSARY:
Ganjier will help curate the menu and match ideal products with your target customers.
Ganjier will help educate and train the other budtenders for ideal service.
Ganjier will guide clients to identify the ideal products for their intended use.
Ganjier will give talks and workshops on how to get the most value from cannabis.
Ganjier will maintain relationships with key vendors/suppliers/farms.
Ganjier will develop and maintain relationships with repeat patrons.
PRODUCT COMPANIES:
Ganjier will help research and formulate products that are unique and in-demand.
Ganjier will help source quality materials based on deep cannabis knowledge.
Ganjier will help the marketing & sales team to tell the most compelling story.
Ganjier will help train the Quality Control department.
CAFE / CONSUMPTION LOUNGE:
Ganjier will drive sales.
Ganjier will curate and maintain the menu as well as manage product inventory.
Ganjier will assess and confirm the quality of incoming product.
Ganjier will guide patrons in their selection process based on desired experience.
Ganjier will guide patrons in the selection and use of consumption related tools.
Ganjier will reduce losses and shrinkage.
Ganjier works closely with management regarding inventory budget, profit margins, and sales.
Ganjier will maintain relationships with key vendors/suppliers/farms.
Ganjier will develop and maintain relationships with repeat patrons.
Ganjier will assist with developing and maintaining the ambiance and character of the establishment.
PRIVATE PARTIES:
Ganjier will host consumption events at weddings, corporate retreats, birthdays, seasonal events, holiday parties, etc.
COMPETITIONS / FESTIVALS / EVENTS:
Ganjier will assist with the development of the rules and guidelines of competitions.
Ganjier will educate and train judges in the Systematic Assessment Protocol™ (SAP).
Ganjier will develop a grading methodology specifically tailored to the competition.
Ganjier will assist in the creation of a positive event atmosphere and experience.
Ganjier will work with the Marketing and Sales team to develop a compelling storyline for the event.
Ganjier will be available to consult with attendees of the event to guide them in their selection process.
TOURISM / TRAVEL
Ganjier will assist in the research, selection, and screening of suitable locations to include on the travel itinerary.
Ganjier will work with the Marketing and Sales team to develop a compelling theme and storyline for the tour.
Ganjier will guide clients in their consumption selection process.
The curriculum was developed by the Ganjier Council, 18 of the most respected experts in the cannabis industry with over 600 years of collective cannabis knowledge, experience, and expertise. The Ganjier Council was established to guide, validate, and endorse the accuracy, validity, and rigor of the Ganjier Certification Program.
No. There are no government agencies either certifying or accrediting cannabis education at this time. We are currently in discussions with a group that anticipates establishing an accrediting body under ANSI for cannabis education before the end of 2022. Our program has been developed with accreditation in mind and plans to seek accreditation, per the ISO / IEC 17024, standard the moment the accrediting body has been established
What is your layer of experience and expertise? The Ganjier program, along with the 18 experts in the Ganjier Council, was developed under Green Flower. Green Flower, the leader in cannabis education for nearly 5 years, currently boasts having it’s curriculum offered in fourteen colleges and universities across the US, including some within the highly regarded University of California system.
As a professional trade certification, we intend for the Ganjier certification to be recognized internationally. Our inaugural class includes students from Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, Italy, Israel, the UK and more.
As a matter of convenience and financial flexibility, you are eligible to book your Exam date immediately following your 2-day Live Training. However, we STRONGLY recommend that you return home after your 2-day in-person live training to STUDY and PRACTICE prior to booking your exam date. The exams are thorough and rigorous. We recommend that you only book your exam date when you are fully confident that you are properly prepared.
Still have more questions? Email info@ganjier.com
