The Maui News

KAHULUI–The statewide Hawaii Coffee Association (HCA) is perking with an action-packed conference offering a wealth of educational opportunities and competitions headlined by keynote speaker Dr. Nora Lapitan, deputy administrator of the USDA Agricultural Research Service. Lapitan, who leads the agency’s research on crop production and protection, will discuss “USDA Coffee Breeding and Climate Change Programs.”

The July 18-20 gathering is open to association members and the broader community at the Ala Moana Hotel in Honolulu.

“This year we’re looking forward to an exciting lineup of presenters and workshops,” says HCA President Tom Greenwell. “As more challenges arise in our industry, leaders from across our university systems, private sectors and non-profits–both locally and internationally–will be coming together for a weekend of collaboration and conversations about the future of Hawaii coffee.”

Conference offerings include multiple breakout sessions providing interactive workshops on coffee fermentation, green coffee grading and how to make caffeinated cocktails.

In addition, HCA hosts its 15h annual Statewide Coffee Cupping Competition with winners announced July 19 at the conference. A sample tasting of the top scoring coffee will be available during the Friday Awards Dinner.

Competition coffees will be blindly cupped using the Specialty Coffee Association’s scoring system and protocol. Qualifying entries will be accepted through May 31 and Pacific Coffee Research in Kona is overseeing the competition.

Attendees will also enjoy a trade show, silent auction, tours and plenty of networking opportunities.

The conference opens Thursday, July 18 with registration followed by a cocktail reception. Register for the conference at https://hawaiicoffeeassoc.org/event-5652011. Sponsorship and trade show exhibitor opportunities are available and silent auction donations are welcome.

Find the official rules and required entry form for the Cupping Competition at https://hawaiicoffeeassoc.org/event-5693662.

Mahalo to the 2024 Conference sponsors: Simplot, Gowan USA, Gearmore, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii, Satake, Savor Brands, American AgCredi and Young Brothers.

“I am grateful to the conference planning committee and their hard work to make this possible,” adds Greenwell. “Be sure to check our schedule of activities at Hawaiicoffeeassoc.org and register as soon as possible.”

The Hawaii Coffee Association’s mission is to represent all sectors of the Hawaii coffee industry, including growers, millers, wholesalers, roasters and retailers. The HCA’s primary objective is to increase awareness and consumption of Hawaiian coffees. A major component of HCA’s work is the continuing education of members and consumers. Learn more about the HCA at http://www.hawaiicoffeeassoc.org/.