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Issue link: http://freshcup.epubxp.com/i/232179
NINE BARS by Nathanael May A path toward professional development H a, there's actually a camp for baristas? You're not seri- classes and workshops that serve as a foundation for developous. What do you guys do, sing 'Kumbaya' and drink ment every chance I get. I'm not surprised by the reactions espresso?" I receive anymore, but they still This conversation with my friend frustrate me. Why is it so strange on the topic of professional developthat baristas would want to educate ment for baristas had not started themselves, improve their skills and It wasn't until 2009 that I really understood well. When I told him I had joined learn more about their craft? the Barista Guild of America (BGA), Even more, why is it strange to how much there was to know—and how his reaction was less than charitable. other baristas that such opportunilittle of that I knew. At that point in my "Nice one. Did you also join the ties exist for them? Royal Order of Blacksmiths or some What I seem to forget in those career, humility finally overpowered hubris, other noble organization for pretend disheartened moments is that I too and my real education in coffee began. professions?" was surprised that there was more This exchange, and several others to coffee than the basics. For a long like it, have happened to me in the time, I just thought coffee was brown years since I became a member of and tasted good. the BGA. I'm enthusiastic about the educational opportunities When I started my career in coffee in 2001, I thought that available to baristas, so I talk about the certifications, camps, all there was to know could be found on the side of a bag: roast 48 Fresh Cup Magazine | freshcup.com