How to Become a Coffee Championship Judge in 2024
WBrC Judges in Athens, June 2024. Photo Credit: World Coffee Championships
You’ve probably seen the championships, maybe you’ve even competed, but have you thought about judging? Coffee championships are always in need of new judges at the regional, national, and world level. You might have wondered, how does one even become a judge? There is no easy answer, since the process varies between competition bodies, but if you’ve never judged before, you’ll want to start at the regional or national level. Here are some tips that when applied, can open up judging opportunities.
1. Get Connected With Your Local Competition Organizers
Begin by establishing connections with your national competition organizers. These groups are authorized by World Coffee Events to host competitions and are the gatekeepers to coffee judging in your region. Follow them on social media, check out their website, or contact them directly to find out the process for applying to become a judge. Application periods for judging are often opened shortly before the championships take place, so keep an eye out.
If there aren’t opportunities to judge in your country, reach out to other competition committees in countries nearby. Competition organizers in other countries are often keen to have international judges, especially if you are willing to cover your travel expenses.
2. Start Learning the Rules and Regulations of the Championships
Understanding the rules and regulations of coffee championships is crucial. With various events under the World Coffee Championships, like the World Barista Championship and the World Brewers Cup, it's important to decide which competition aligns with your interests and expertise. Begin by thoroughly studying the official rules and regulations, scoring systems, and scoresheets for these events. This knowledge not only helps in making informed judgments but also demonstrates your commitment and professionalism to competition organizers. In many cases, prospective judges are required to take an exam on the rules and regulations in advance of the championship, so why not get a head start on studying. Rules and regulations and scoresheets can be accessed for free at the links below:
3. Build Your Coffee Resume
In the world of judging, your background and experience in the coffee industry play a significant role. As someone who has served as a Judge Coordinator, I can attest to the importance of a strong coffee resume if you plan to apply to be a judge. Stand out by accumulating relevant education, certifications, and experience in the coffee sector. Remember, it’s not just about your qualifications, but also about how you present them. Highlighting your unique experiences, contributions to the coffee community, and continuous learning efforts can set you apart from other candidates and make competition organizers more confident that you will make a good judge who will execute the role of judge professionally.
4. Watch Championships Online
One of the most enjoyable ways to familiarize yourself with the judging process is by watching past championships online. Platforms like World Coffee Championships’ channel on YouTube offer an extensive library of competitor routines. When watching, pay close attention to the judges' actions – note when they jot down observations, how they interact with competitors, and where their attention is focused during different parts of the competition. This practice will not only deepen your understanding of the judging process but also refine your observational skills, which are crucial for a judge.
Beyond observing judges, start to evaluate competitor routines from a distance, at least the score categories that don’t have to do with taste. Aspects such as latte art, technical skills, and barista skills can be evaluated from the video.
5. Learn the Core Competencies of Judging
Finally, understanding the list of core competencies expected of a judge is vital. These competencies are similar to a job description, outlining the skills and attributes required to excel in this role. While all competencies are important, focus especially on the critical competencies which are bolded as these are the non-negotiable skills that you must demonstrate consistently as a judge. Developing these competencies involves both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, from sensory analysis to impartial decision-making. Use this list of competencies as a guide to help you know what to improve on your own time in preparation for judging.
Embarking on the journey to become a coffee championship judge is a process of preparation, learning, and networking. Following these steps will not only prepare you for the role but also enhance your chances of being selected. Remember, judging at these events is not just an honor; it's a responsibility that requires dedication, expertise, and a deep love for the art of coffee.