The lecture schedule has just been announced for the SCAA Expo in Seattle in April 2014. Two programs jumped out as being of special interest to readers of this forum, both on Friday, April 25. There are usually Q&A sessions at the end and always opportunities to speak to the speakers one-on-one.

Evolution and Innovation of Espresso Machines.

An in-depth look at both the advancements in espresso machine technology over the last century, as well as, taking a glimpse into what's in store for the future. Hear from the professionals that helped shape the way we know espresso to be today and get inspired by what they are dreaming up for tomorrow.

Features Kent Bakke of La Marzocco, Greg Scace, David Schomer and others who may be familiar to you.

Capitalizing on Coffee at Home: Building your business by supporting the growing interest in specialty coffee at home.
Features Nick Cho, Colby Barr of Verve and others.

Details here: http://www.scaaevent.org/?p=lectures&fd=Friday.

These are not part of the low-ticket barista competition program. But, if you do not want to spring for a full one-day pass, as always, volunteers earn credit toward admission (in addition to having a great time behind the scenes, as many H-B regulars will attest). The best assignments usually go to the earliest volunteers. Volunteering details here: http://www.scaaevent.org/?p=howitworks.