Nicole is a long-time coffee industry veteran who has worked in all areas of specialty coffee. She has made an incredibly dedicated and passionate contribution to the industry, first working in enormous brand coffee retail, then in petite specialty stores, managing specialty stores, and now working in Cafe import on sale. I have met and worked with several people who have stood out for their unwavering commitment to quality and professionalism in every coffee-related role they have held in their careers.
How many years have you worked in the coffee industry in total?
15 years.
What was your first coffee job?
In 2010, I first took on the role of coffee barista at my local specialty shop.
Did you experience a life-changing coffee moment early in your career?
Many moments have stuck with me since my freshman year – the first time I stepped into a sultry, welcoming space, the first time I experienced exceptional hospitality, the first time I poured coffee from a single source that changed everything – but the most impactful moment was learning about the journey of coffee from seed to cup. I felt (and still feel) a real responsibility to treat coffee with care in order to honor the people who worked so challenging before me.
Is there a person or people who mentored you at the beginning of your coffee career? How did they influence you?
Tim Cox hired me for that first barista job, and we worked together several more times throughout my career. I have always been inspired by his commitment to others and attention to quality.
What is your current role in coffee?
I am currently a sales representative at Cafe Imports.
What aspect of the coffee industry has changed the most over the course of your career?
The coffee is so alive; it’s always changing. It’s challenging to really pinpoint any one aspect, but I think our role as stewards must most evolve and grow as a community in the face of climate, political and socio-economic challenges around the world, so that we can take care of each other along the chain.
What else surprises you about coffee today or makes you content?
I love education and training! There is always more to learn and I love helping people have that “aha” moment and helping them feel empowered. There are also endless opportunities to be original in the world of coffee, and I welcome almost all of them! It’s always invigorating.
What is the thing about the coffee industry that you would most like to see change?
I think we can always improve accessibility and strengthen community.
What is your fondest memory related to coffee?
Meeting with women ASMUCAFE my first year at Cafe Imports.
Do you make coffee at home? If so, tell us how you brew!
Me + my lime green Origami drip = 4 ever.
What is your favorite song/music for making coffee?
Throw some Jessica Pratt please and thank you.
What is your idea of coffee happiness?
Being present with the people I love, in a pretty space, and with something special in my hand. I can’t beat this.
If you could have coffee with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
If only I could, I would love to have coffee and cake with my Nana again and hear all her balmy gossip.
What one piece of advice would you give to people starting a career in the coffee industry today?
If you feel it calling to you, don’t give up. Sometimes it’s not straightforward, sometimes you have to stick your elbows out and create your own space, but you can’t give up.
