Barista Certification

[StarBuffs]

As mentioned before I was asked to help open a cafe in a local hotel. The hotel president thought that having a certified Barista would be a good marketing tool, but I am not sure it that makes big difference...it would just put a paper on the wall...I know that any of you can make better drinks than I can...or is the training that good and helpful?

thanks for the advice

BUFF

 

[topher]

I can send you a guide when I go back to work tomorrow...I wrote it for a casino I used to roast for...its got some good info in it.
Later
Christopher

 

[cafemakers]

I suppose that this would depend on precisely what "certification" your employer is referring to... to my knowledge there is no such certification recognized by any recognized authority in the USA.

There are some plaques awarded by the SCAE (specialty coffee association of Europe) for mastery in certain areas, but as of yet, one has not been implemented here by the SCAA. (well, actually it was, but was later discontinued due to a very lengthy story) I believe that there are also courses offered in Australia by the AASCA.

We've discussed eventually bringing back such a monster with the SCAA, but there is much more content that needs to be developed, so it will probably be a while.

I suggest that you focus on the results that any training program or private instruction you consider rather than the paper on your wall. Ultimately, the only proof of your skill will be in the cup.

Andrew

 

[cafemakers]

You may also want to read this thread regarding hiring experienced baristas. My comments from this thread may apply to your situation.

Andrew