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Coffee Skills Program
The Specialty Coffee Association's (SCA) Coffee Skills Program is a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip coffee professionals with the knowledge and expertise necessary to excel in the industry. Through a variety of courses and certifications, the program covers a wide range of topics, including coffee origin, roasting, brewing, sensory evaluation, and sustainability. By completing the Coffee Skills Program, individuals demonstrate their commitment to professional development and gain a competitive edge in the dynamic world of specialty coffee.
Intro 2 Coffee
This foundational course provides a comprehensive overview of the coffee industry, covering topics such as coffee history, botany, and production methods.
Barista Skills
The Barista specialization focuses on the art and science of coffee preparation, emphasizing techniques like espresso extraction, latte art, and alternative brewing methods.
Green Coffee
This specialization delves into the complexities of green coffee, including grading, quality assessment, and the impact of processing methods on flavor development.
Sensory Skills
This specialization trains participants to develop their sensory perception, enabling them to accurately evaluate coffee quality, identify flavor profiles, and communicate their findings effectively.
Brewing Skills
The Brewing course explores advanced brewing techniques, equipment, and the factors that influence coffee flavor.
Roasting Skills
The Roasting course provides in-depth knowledge of coffee roasting, including the impact of roasting parameters on flavor, quality control, and the science behind the roasting process.
Sustainability Program
Sustainability Foundation
The Foundation Level of the SCA Sustainability Program introduces participants to the core concepts of sustainability in the coffee industry. It covers topics such as environmental impact, social responsibility, and economic viability. Participants will gain a basic understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to sustainable coffee production and consumption.
Sustainability Intermediate
The Intermediate Level delves deeper into specific sustainability issues and provides practical tools for implementing sustainable practices. It explores topics like climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, fair trade principles, and ethical sourcing. Participants will learn how to assess and improve the sustainability performance of their businesses or organizations.
Sustainability Professional
The Professional Level is designed for individuals who want to become leaders in sustainability within the coffee industry. It focuses on advanced topics such as sustainable supply chain management, circular economy principles, and measuring and reporting sustainability performance. Participants will gain the skills and knowledge needed to drive positive change and contribute to a more sustainable coffee sector.
Coffee Technicians Program
Water and Preventive Maintenance
The Specialty Coffee Association's (SCA) Coffee Technicians Program introduces the critical concepts of specialty water and preventive maintenance. This program emphasizes the profound impact of water quality on coffee extraction, highlighting the importance of understanding water hardness, mineral content, and pH levels. Participants will learn practical techniques for testing and treating water to ensure optimal brewing conditions, as well as essential preventive maintenance practices to prolong the lifespan of equipment and maintain consistent quality in coffee production. By mastering these concepts, coffee technicians can contribute to the production of exceptional coffee and ensure the sustainability of their operations.