Continuing education resources

Why Continuing Education?

• Coffee is dynamic—science, technology, and consumer preferences evolve rapidly.
• Staying updated ensures competitiveness and professional credibility.
• Expands career pathways into training, consulting, and leadership roles.

Formal Education Resources

1. Specialty Coffee Association (SCA):

• Coffee Skills Program (Barista, Brewing, Roasting, Green Coffee, Sensory).
• Certifications up to Professional level.

2. Coffee Quality Institute (CQI):

• Q Grader and R Grader licenses.
• Sensory and sustainability-focused programs.

3. University & Research Institutes:

• Programs in food science, agronomy, and hospitality.
• Short courses on sensory science or supply chain.

Informal & Self-Study Resources

1. Books & Journals:

• “The Coffee Roaster’s Companion” (Scott Rao).
• SCA’s Coffee Science Foundation publications.
• Academic journals on food chemistry and agronomy.

2. Online Platforms:

• Barista Hustle, Coffee Knowledge Hub, CoffeeCourses.com.
• YouTube educational channels (James Hoffmann, European Coffee Trip).

3. Podcasts & Webinars:

• Cat & Cloud Podcast, Keys to the Shop.
• Industry webinars from equipment manufacturers and importers.

Practical Learning Resources

• Workshops & Bootcamps:
• Latte art, sensory calibration, roasting intensives.
• Competitions:
• Learning by participating or volunteering.
• Cupping Groups & Guilds:
• Barista Guild, Roaster Guild community-led trainings.

Networking as Education

• Industry events double as continuing education.
• Attending cuppings, expos, and sustainability forums exposes professionals to cutting-edge practices.

Summary

Continuing education in coffee blends formal certifications, informal self-study, practical workshops, and community engagement. By investing in ongoing learning, professionals remain adaptable, competitive, and positioned for long-term success in the industry.

• Tags:
• Green Coffee
• Specialty Coffee
• Latte Art
• Coffee Quality
• Supply Chain
• Sensory Calibration