Gerry Hughes
Gerry has worked in the coffee industry in both Ireland and the UK for the past 20 years (18 with Java Republic). An in-depth understanding of business and a wealth of coffee knowledge has solidified Gerry as one of the best in his field. Being an Authorised trainer (AST) for the SCA has been a pleasure for him, while also acquiring a Diploma in the coffee business. “Being involved as a judge with the Irish in Barista and Latte Art Competitions, as well as facilitating the Irish Barista and Latte Art semi-finals has been a highlight in my career”.
Aisling Alexander
Aisling Alexander has been enjoying the art of coffee for over 10 years, and loves the fact that there is always something new to learn. Based in Galway, Aisling is part of our team in the west of Ireland, working with customers from Limerick all the way up to Donegal. What Aisling loves about the coffee industry is how diverse it is, and has a particular interest in learning about coffee farms as well as sustainability within the industry. Most of all however “my passion is coffee training…showing people new ways to enjoy the art of coffee and seeing the passion grow in them. Working along the Wild Atlantic Way is also a bonus!”.
Maya Rozwadowska
Since 2017, Maya has been immersing herself entirely in the world of coffee, excelling as a barista team leader whilst also sharing her expertise through mentoring and training others in the industry. Her passion continually drives her to innovate and her goal is “to spread happiness through beautifully crafted coffee”. Beyond her professional achievements, Maya’s involvement in national championships, along with her warm and sociable nature, have made her a beloved figure in the coffee community.
SCA Courses
At Java Republic, education is at the heart of everything we do. Our world-class training programmes ensure that every cup of speciality coffee is served right.
We offer a range of Speciality Coffee Association of Europe (SCA) accredited courses, including a pathway to their prestigious Coffee Diploma. This means our training is measured against the highest possible industry standards for coffee education.
Our SCA Authorised Trainers (AST) deliver a range of courses to suit everyone. We can help staff approaching the coffee machine for the first time, or more experienced baristas looking to further their skill base. We can even help head baristas take their career to the recognised professional standards.
Premier Training Campus
Our on-site training facility is one of the best equipped you will ever see. Aside from a training campus, we also use this facility as our tasting room, where our Quality Team ensures that each and every blend of Java Republic coffee meets the exact and high standards.
We have proudly been awarded the title of Premier Training Campus by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). We are delighted to be the first Irish roasting company to receive this certification.
The SCA promotes excellence in quality coffee and only awards Premier Training Campus status to facilities that consistently meet all requirements set out by the programme and demonstrate a calibrated teaching environment to teach within specified standards.
