Camp-Pull-A-Shot Re-cap

Around the campfire, an accordian played, average voices rang out folk tunes, smores caught flame, and baristas enjoyed an intimate moment amongst friends in an under-appreciated, yet  growing profession.

Over 100 baristas made the pilgrimage to a little campsite outside Santa Barbara, California.  Industry professionals made up of trainers and barista competitors taught courses in espresso, bar flow, maintenance, manual brewing, and latte art.  Ideas, smiles and encouragement shared freely amongst people who truly love what they do.

The role of a barista has become invaluable to the specialty coffee experience.  So many people work so hard before the barista even contacts the coffee – pickers, farmers, millers, exporters, importers, roasters, delivery men… then the barista has the challenge and privilege to craft what might be the best coffee experience to ever happen upon any customer on any day.

Camp brought the opportunity to relax, ‘geek-out,’ & be reminded how far we’ve come as an industry.  But more than anything – the Camp experience provoked us to be better baristas.  To go home with a renewed sense of purpose.  To represent all those who come before as well as we possibly can.  To facilitate a coffee experience.

To share all that we love about this little roasted bean!

Thank you to the BGA and SCAA for this event.  Looking forward to the future.