VOLUNTEERING AT THE SCA
The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) was built by people who showed up and contributed their time to grow the specialty coffee community. Volunteers still play a central role at SCA events around the world, supporting everything from competitions to the attendee experience.
Why volunteer with the SCA?
Volunteering with the Specialty Coffee Association is more than helping at an event. It’s a chance to learn through real experience, meet people across the industry, and contribute to work that makes a meaningful impact. Whether you're new to coffee or already working in the industry, volunteering gives you a practical way to get involved, learn, and meet people across the global coffee community.
As a volunteer, you’ll have opportunities to:
Build real
experience
Gain practical skills through hands-on involvement at global coffee events and competitions.
Learn how the
industry works
Get behind-the-scenes insight into how international coffee events and competitions operate.
Connect with
industry professionals
Engage with a global community of coffee professionals representing different areas of the specialty coffee industry.
Discover career
opportunities
Build relationships, gain industry exposure, and explore pathways into specialty coffee that can support your long-term growth in the industry.
Upcoming volunteering opportunities
There will be multiple opportunities to volunteer at SCA events across the world in 2026. Registrations open on a rolling basis, so availability may change depending on demand. You can use the links below to view current openings and apply.
General volunteer positions available for World Barista Championship 2026 in Panama
The 26th World Barista Championship is taking place this October 22-25 in Panama City, Panama! Click the link below to explore volunteer opportunities and see the best baristas in the world up-close.
Additional volunteer perks
As a volunteer, you’ll have:
Access to a dedicated Volunteer Lounge
An invitation to the Volunteer Reception
A custom volunteer t-shirt
Complimentary full-event access when you complete at least three shifts as a member, or four shifts if you are a non-member.
Please note that the SCA does not provide support for travel or accommodation. Additional volunteer guidance will be shared ahead of the event.
Inside the volunteer experience
“Everything was excellent. From the staff to the organization.. it all felt cheerful and upliftings.”
Volunteer
2025 Expo
“It was an overall great experience. All my shifts were great connecting with instructors and volunteers. Learned a lot about the industry.”
Volunteer
2025 Expo
“It was my first time volunteering and the Volunteer Team made me feel at ease and helped me find the best shifts for me which gave me confidence to continue volunteering in specialty coffee. Volunteers can be themselves and the experience felt inclusive.”
Volunteer
2025 Expo
Ways to
volunteer locally
Beyond global events, many volunteer opportunities happen through SCA Chapters and local coffee communities around the world. Whether you’re interested in supporting global coffee events, contributing to educational programs, or help shape the future of the specialty coffee community through volunteer leadership, local involvement is a great way to grow within the specialty coffee industry.
Partner with the volunteer program
SCA volunteer programs are supported by sponsors, with opportunities for companies of all sizes to get involved. If your organization wants to support the community and be part of SCA events, you can contact our team.
