With topics ranging from the evolution of the coffee industry to his go-to coffee order, special guest speaker Jerry Baldwin, co-founder of Starbucks and former president of Peet's Coffee, shared unique insights during Conversations on Coffee at the University of California, Davis, on November 13.

William Ristenpart, professor of chemical engineering and director of the UC Davis Coffee Center, moderated the discussion, which touched on Baldwin's experience as an English major at the University of San Francisco and the growth of coffee-loving culture in the U.S. up to the present day, where he stands as an icon committed to ethical practices within the coffee industry.

A self-described "coffee man" (in contrast with a "businessman"), Baldwin also identified several challenges and opportunities facing the coffee industry. Weather, climate change, drought, pests, sustainable practices and worker health will impact the future of coffee.

"I have another project for you," Baldwin said to Ristenpart, referring to the multidisciplinary coffee science research and education being conducted at UC Davis. "The length of time between the end of the roast to when the package is sealed is important to tasting. Add that to the list!"

A lively Q&A session concluded the event, with attendees inquiring about how Starbucks got its name, the rise of alternative milk in coffee shops, mentorship from Alfred H. Peet and Baldwin's most memorable cup of coffee (a homebrew he made to power him while he changed a car tire).

Ristenpart thanked Baldwin for his insights and reminded student attendees about the unique opportunities available at UC Davis to dive deeper into the world of coffee through courses like "Design of Coffee."

Conversations on Coffee was not just an exploration of the past, but a forward-thinking discussion about how future generations can continue to innovate, lead and create a more sustainable coffee industry.