In the Industry Since: 2007
Drinking Coffee Since: 2007
Favorite Coffee Origin: Ethiopia, Kenya
Favorite Tools: Fluke T5-600, Ullman picks(great for rock hard group gaskets), Bahco wrenches
Hometown: New York City
How did you start working in espresso machine service:
After roasting coffee in Oklahoma for several years, I packed my life into my car and moved to New York City. While trying to get a job roasting coffee, I made the mistake of admitting I know how to repair espresso machines. Everyone wanted to hire me as a technician, not a roaster. So, I became a technician!
Random fact:
I used to travel a lot to play in Disc Golf tournaments. I would win about $10,000 every year from it.
What field were you in before coffee:
I’ve been working in coffee since I graduated from college.
What is gratifying to you about working in coffee:
The reach of coffee. It impacts so much; from morning routines to international politics.
What’s are the favorite aspects of the job:
The people, the variety, and getting to visit every part of New York City.
What drives you to do great work:
It takes a lot of effort to make good coffee. The farmer, importer, roaster, and barista have to do their jobs well. I make sure the equipment is worthy of the effort everyone else is putting in.
Favorite repair trick:
Whacking on a solenoid valve that is stuck because the Cafiza wasn’t rinsed out of it.