Superbarista to Judge at US Barista Championships

I am so excited to report that I just got the details on what it will take to be a judge at the US Barista Championships in Charlotte, NC. I will be attending a two day workshop in preparation as well as taking a sensory skills test in order to qualify. I have been reading through the Judges rules and regulations, many of which are actually behavioral guidelines, such as being respectful to the competitors, not speaking to each other during the presentations, not making eye contact, not laughing. There are many reminders about the psychological impact that the judges' behavior has on the competitors.

Here is what we are looking for in a Barista:

• One who has a mastery of technical skills, craftsmanship, and who is passionate about their profession.
• High quality beverages served.
• One who has a broad understanding of coffee knowledge.
• One who may serve as a role model and a source of inspiration for others.

I know Tina C. (bad ass barista at Lee Road) is getting pretty serious about competing. She has even developed her signature drink. She needs to feel more confident about her skills. Wouldn't it be cool to have a Phoenix representative at the USBC?