Turn Your Coffee Obsession Into a Profession and Learn How to Become a Barista

People who are passionate about wine can become sommeliers, but people who are passionate about coffee become baristas. Because about 65% of adults drink coffee every day, there is no shortage of opportunities out there for baristas. Espresso, coffee, or cappuccino – most of us know that the recipes are all different. And while the average coffee drinker might not know if their beans are Arabica or Robusta, their barista surely knows the difference. Passion for coffee is the most important ingredient to creating a great cup of coffee, so let’s look at how to become a barista.

How to Become a Barista: What It Takes

People who love good coffee rarely understand the amount of testing and planning and training that goes into creating their favorite morning beverage. The brew process is complex, and starts with understanding and selecting beans. After that, training for how to become a barista includes grinds, brew methods, times and temperatures, and even cup selection. Wine geeks have wine tastings but coffee geeks have cuppings. Part of your barista training will include refining of your palate. The last ingredient to any barista education is practice and more practice. But just how does one get the training necessary to become an actual barista?

There Are Schools That Teach You How to Become a Barista

There are many schools and training classes available when you want to become a barista. Simply search online by using a phrase like ‘Barista Schools’ for a list of institutions and programs near you. Often, a part of the training occurs online, which is convenient if you work or go to school. Some of these schools offer certificates so you can find a job right away, after you’ve learned how to become a barista.

On the Job Training for Baristas

For those who want experience and pay while they are training, working as an apprentice barista is a great start. As an apprentice, you get experience while you train – and you typically get paid for your time, too. You can opt to apply at a chain or a small, local coffee shop near you. Either way, make sure the training is thorough and includes a variety of options and specialty drinks, so you can maximize your experience as you learn how to become a barista.

Working as a Barista

The job of a barista is fast paced, flexible, and includes lots of interaction with people. Most baristas make a wage plus tips, and the better you are, the better the tips tend to be. Once you’ve been trained and have some experience, you can get a good job, even if you move to a different city. All it really takes to start is a love and passion for coffee!