In a recent message addressed to the global CQI community, Michael Sheridan, CEO of the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI), outlined critical updates regarding the ongoing transition of the Q Grader program to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), along with CQI’s broader plans for the remainder of 2025.

Sheridan opened his message with a note of solidarity to all coffee professionals:

“Wherever you are and whatever you do in coffee, I hope that this finds you well.”

Q Program Transition Timeline

Sheridan reminded the community that the transition of the Q program’s leadership from CQI to SCA is scheduled to be completed on October 1, 2025, and encouraged those interested in earning or renewing their Q Grader certification through CQI to act swiftly.

“Since my last email, our team has been working hard to help learners and educators take advantage of the ‘fast-track’ opportunity that SCA has offered to members of our community to transition to the next phase of the Q.”

The message includes a clear warning: those who wish to complete their certification under CQI must refer to the CQI database for available courses before the October deadline.

SCA Fast-Track Certification Offer

Sheridan emphasized the six-month window remaining for the SCA’s fast-track offer, which allows current and lapsed Q Graders to transition by completing just the two-day CVA for Cuppers class. This opportunity will expire on December 31, 2025.

Starting January 1, 2026, obtaining Q Grader certification from SCA will require completion of the more intensive and costly six-day Q course based on the CVA.

He provided a step-by-step call to action for interested professionals:

1. Consult the SCA course listings to find an upcoming CVA for Cuppers class near them.

2. Register with SCA so that current Q status can be validated and certification processed promptly.

Sheridan added,

“For more information on the Q program transition, consult our FAQs here. If you still have questions after reviewing them, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.”

Second-Half 2025 Initiatives

The second half of the message turned to CQI’s ongoing and upcoming efforts in other areas of its work, beginning with its Post-Harvest Processing (PHP) program.

“We are currently overhauling the three courses that comprise our core PHP progression — Intro to Post-Harvest Processing, Quality Processing 1 Generalist, and Quality Processing 2 Professional — and we are looking for your help.”

Sheridan explained that in the coming weeks, CQI will gather feedback from PHP educators regarding updates and rearrangements to the course structure. A group of senior instructors will be selected to conduct a field test of the new QP2 course before its official release in 2026.

Projects in Coffee-Producing Countries

CQI is also working on new project concepts focused on improving both coffee quality and producer livelihoods in coffee-growing regions. Sheridan expressed appreciation for those already involved and hinted at forthcoming announcements during the second half of the year.

“We are grateful for your collaboration and look forward to announcing new initiatives in coffee-producing countries during the second half of the year.”

Global Listening Tour and Community Engagement

Lastly, Sheridan highlighted CQI’s efforts to engage with the community through a “study tour” approach. During events like World of Coffee Jakarta, CQI sat down with Indonesian coffee producers to better understand how to support quality-driven development.

The organization will also be launching a short survey and conducting phone interviews with stakeholders including producers, traders, roasters, educators, nonprofits, and other coffee organizations.

“The results of these conversations will shape the future of CQI. We will let you know about future opportunities to participate and thank you in advance for your guidance.”

Closing Note

Sheridan concluded his message with gratitude and a forward-looking sentiment” “Thank you for everything you do to help advance CQI’s mission. I look forward to working with you to write the next chapter in CQI’s story.

 For full details, course listings, and updates, stakeholders are encouraged to visit the CQI website.