The inaugural Nuova Simonelli Technicians Competition took place in Dubai on April 29. This event was established to recognise the skills and strategic importance of the technicians who ensure the quality and excellent performance of espresso machines and grinders every day.

It was an intense day filled with real-world challenges on the Nuova Aurelia Volumetrica XT, rigorous evaluations by the judges, and considerable enthusiasm from the participants. Ultimately, John Paul Alcantara emerged victorious, distinguishing himself through his speed, precision and problem-solving abilities.

“I decided to participate to test myself,” stated John Paul Alcantara. “Our work is often solitary, but competitions like this allow us to feel part of a community. It was stimulating to come face-to-face with other professionals, push my boundaries, and share my passion for this trade.”

With over 10 years of experience in the industry, it was a chance for him to send a message to younger colleagues: “Be curious and keep up to date. Coffee machines are constantly evolving, and to deliver quality in the cup, we must evolve too.”

He further added how much he appreciates working with Nuova Simonelli machines: “They are intuitive and straightforward to maintain. This makes a real difference in our daily work.” Finally, he offered an invitation: “I encourage all my colleagues around the world to participate in this type of competition. It’s a tangible way to recognise the value of our role.”