The Brewing Professional course builds upon the concepts and skills introduced in the Brewing Intermediate course. Learners take a deeper and more scientific look at the essential elements of good brewing, what happens when brewing parameters are manipulated, and how to master navigation of the coffee brewing control chart. Learners will gain a deeper understanding of water and its impact on brewing, specifically utilizing the ideals of aim, measure, and treatment. The most powerful tools that a professional brewer possesses are an analytical mind and the ability to process and manipulate a multitude of changing variables. These variables help the brewer to understand how best to interpret the information and then offer a solution or opinion that will improve the coffee quality, service, and delivery for their clients. A written exam tests professional course knowledge while a practical exam tests the skills described above based on different working activities carried out during the course. Learn more about the SCA Coffee Skills Program here. Validated parking and lunch are included in the course fee. Students will receive a 15% discount on coffee and merchandise the day of class! Maximum Class Size: 2 students Class Duration: 3 sessions, 7.5 hours/session Instructor: Jonathan Pascual, Authorized SCA Trainer
Thinking about starting a coffee shop, cart, or roasting business? Join us for Opening a Coffee Business: A Crash Course for Aspiring Owners, a 3-hour workshop designed for future coffee entrepreneurs. Led by Opo founder Jonathan Pascual, we’ll walk through startup costs, business models, licensing, staffing, and the real-world challenges of running a coffee business. You’ll leave with practical insights, a workbook, and a one-page business plan template to help move your idea forward. Jonathan has directly opened and operated several specialty coffee businesses over the course of his career, and has consulted on dozens of successful coffee business projects locally and globally. His experience spans concepts from mobile carts to retail cafes, roasteries to coffee training centers. He is an experienced business coach and Authorized Specialty Coffee Association Trainer. This small-group class is limited to 7 participants to encourage discussion and personal interaction. Attendees will also receive a credit toward Opo’s consulting services if they decide to pursue one-on-one guidance. Whether you're still dreaming or ready to take the next step, this class will give you the tools — and honest perspective — you need. Parking validation included in class fee.
Play on any of the coffee brewing equipment in our lab, with an Opo trainer available to answer any questions or give tips on technique. Open to anyone, professional baristas and home coffee enthusiasts alike. Coffee beans and whole milk included. Available equipment: 2-group La Marzocco Linea Classic EE 1-group La Marzocco GS3 Nuova Simonelli Mythos espresso grinder Nuova Simonelli G60 AMC espresso grinder Mazzer Major espresso grinder Mahlkonig Guatemala coffee grinder Breville Barista Express home espresso machine Breville Bambino Plus home espresso machine Baratza Encore home grinder Bonavita Metropolitan 8-cup drip brewer Various manual brew methods: French press, Aeropress, Kalita, Clever, V60, Chemex Hot water tower Water kettles Weighing scales Maximum Size: 6 people
Play on any of the coffee brewing equipment in our lab, with an Opo trainer available to answer any questions or give tips on technique. Open to anyone, professional baristas and home coffee enthusiasts alike. Coffee beans and whole milk included. Available equipment: 2-group La Marzocco Linea Classic EE 1-group La Marzocco GS3 Nuova Simonelli Mythos espresso grinder Nuova Simonelli G60 AMC espresso grinder Mazzer Major espresso grinder Mahlkonig Guatemala coffee grinder Breville Barista Express home espresso machine Breville Bambino Plus home espresso machine Baratza Encore home grinder Bonavita Metropolitan 8-cup drip brewer Various manual brew methods: French press, Aeropress, Kalita, Clever, V60, Chemex Hot water tower Water kettles Weighing scales Maximum Size: 6 people
This practical workshop is perfect for those who have a home espresso machine and would like to brew better shots and understand how barista technique affects taste in the cup. During the class, you’ll learn the basics of espresso extraction and work on things like grind adjustment, distribution, and tamping, learning on commercial equipment and Breville home machines. Our experienced trainers will guide you through the process, providing tips and tricks to help you sharpen your home barista skills. Students will receive a 15% discount on coffee and merchandise the day of class! Maximum Class Size: 6 students Instructor: Joel Ballard, Opo Barista & Authorized SCA Trainer
Whether you’re just getting started as a barista, have an espresso machine at home, or simply want to learn latte art technique for fun, this hands-on class is a great introduction to basic latte art. You’ll get direct instruction and practice using commercial or home espresso equipment to get one step better in pouring latte art - whether that's starting with a simple heart, or improving technique for more consistent milk texture for your more advanced pours. No previous experience required. Maximum Class Size: 6 students Instructor: Joel Ballard, Opo Barista & Authorized SCA Trainer