JBSA-Randolph Exchange Starbucks Associate Takes Top Area Prize in Barista Championship

James Farmer’s job has its perks. He’s now an award-winning barista at the Exchange Starbucks on Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph.

Farmer was selected from his store to compete in the Starbucks North American Barista Championship. He took first place in his area competition, where baristas were judged on creating classic Starbucks drinks as well as one made from available products in the store. James’ signature drink for the competition was a Honey Oatmilk Latte with Blonde Espresso.

Farmer had somewhat of a home-field advantage as both the regional and the area competitions were held at Randolph. After winning at area, Farmer finished second in the regional competition, which focused on not only crafting drinks but also creating the full experience for the customer through storytelling and connection. Winning at this level is something Farmer has been working toward for some time.

“I set this as a goal last year” Farmer said. “So it’s amazing to see it come to life and even better that I actually won at the area level and came so close in the regionals.”

James Farmer, a barista at the JBSA-Randolph Exchange Starbucks, took first place in his area competition in the Starbucks North American Barista Championship. Contestants were judged on creating classic Starbucks drinks as well as one made from available products in the store.

For his accomplishments in the contest, James received a medal, a premium reserve bag of Guatemala Antigua coffee beans, a tasting espresso cup and an apron monogrammed with his name and “Store Champion.”

Farmer has worked for Starbucks for eight years, six of those at Randolph. During that time, he put in the hours behind the counter and behind the books, learning and developing his skills and knowledge. That extra time and work led to him earning a black apron, signifying that he is now a Starbucks Coffee Master.

Starbucks awards the black apron to distinguished baristas who have a deeper understanding of the background and origins of the coffee they serve. The apron shows that Farmer not only can make the best cup of coffee but also provide an experience for the customer that is above and beyond.

“I really enjoy the job and the daily experiences,” Farmer said. “What keeps me coming back is the appreciation from the regulars when I’m making their drinks for them. Everyone needs their morning cup of coffee, and being able to create that perfect cup and the entire coffee experience for people every day makes me just as happy as it makes them.”

While the everyday experience is great, Farmer already has his sights on next year’s competition.

“I’ve already started practicing some of the things I fell short on this year,” Farmer said. “I loved the competition, and I’m proud to have done so well this year, but yeah, I already have my sights set on going much further next year and doing even better.”