Nguyen Le 

Barista Trainer

In 2015, I co-founded a training program driven by my passion for exceptional coffee and my frustration with the industry’s many shortcomings.

EXPERIENCE

I Train, Compete, Coach & Repeat

My journey in coffee began in 2014 when I started working at specialty cafés. Over time, these spaces became more than just workplaces—they were where I developed my craft, built connections, and explored the endless depths of coffee.

In 2015, I began collaborating with Simon Gautherin after he completed his SCA, Q-Grading and trainining with the 2009 Baarista World Champion Gwilym , and we delved deeply into barista skills, brewing techniques, tasting profiles, and water science. Our partnership was more than just practice; it was about conducting research, sharing knowledge, and pushing the boundaries of what we could achieve in the coffee world.

By 2017, I had the opportunity to train and compete alongside Jibbi Little, a prominent figure in latte art and barista competitions. As one of her first students, I honed my latte art and technical skills under her guidance and gained invaluable experience competing at a high level, further shaping my approach to coffee as both an art and a science.
Beyond competing, I discovered a passion for teaching and mentoring. Since 2015, Simon and I have trained and consulted with over 30 cafés and roasters across Sydney. We’ve worked with diverse business models, helping optimise operations and hiring baristas for events and conferences.

This experience gave me unique insights into the coffee industry and job market, which I’ve used to support others in their careers. For the past 4.5 years, I’ve been working full-time as a digital marketing specialist, working alongside and training different marketing agencies in Australia. Despite this shift, my passion for coffee has remained constant. I love teaching people about coffee, sharing my knowledge, and helping others find joy in the craft that has brought so much meaning to my life.

MY BIGGEST STRENTH

Innovative Training
Methodology

Little do people realise that I have been training people not only in the coffee industry but also in marketing for various agencies and markets. I believe that while there are many skilled baristas with excellent techniques, there is a significant lack of proper teaching methodology. Being a great barista doesn’t necessarily mean being a great barista trainer. My background in communication and technology has been instrumental in creating what I believe to be the most effective training programme in Australia. I am also developing a unique portal and infrastructure for barista students—something that hasn’t been done before in this field. From being meticulous about every word and image I include in the training materials, to reorganising modules, creating an interactive game for students to learn, and building a platform to connect talented graduates with job opportunities, my approach is focused on innovation and impact.

Awards & Honours

VN Barista Smackdown Sydney 2018 Host

#4 2018 ONA Latte Art Madness

#2 2018 South Coast NSW Smackdown

#2 2018 Beat The Barista

#10 NSW Latte Art Championship 2018

#8 The LMINATOR 2018

VISION

Bridging the Gap Between  Aspirations & Reality

My co-founder, Simon, and I witnessed a concerning trend: countless students were misled by established coffee training schools, leaving them ill-equipped and jobless. Conversely, cafe owners struggled to find competent baristas, particularly from those who are new to the industry. There was a clear disconnect between expectations and reality – we and set out to change that!

COMMITMENT

We Offer Efficient, Affordable & Professional Barista Course

First Shot Barista Training was born from this desire to bridge this gap. We’re not interested in churning out baristas who prioritise latte art flourishes over fundamental skills. Our barista courses in Sydney , delivered in high-quality facilities, cut through the noise and get down to what matters most. When 
Simon and I create an offer, we also carefully consider your financial situation to provide the best value possible, ensuring our training is both accessible and impactful.

MISSION

Structure The Way Coffee Making Is Being Taught & Convey Knowledge More Efficiently

Practical Experience

Our hands-on training ensures you’re ready to excel behind the coffee machine from day one.

Coffee Fundamentals

Learn everything from bean selection to milk texturization, with a focus on the “why” behind every technique.

Industry Connections

Our network of cafés actively hires our graduates, giving you a direct path to your dream coffee job.

Job Placement Technology

We’re the first in Australia to offer a job platform connecting top students with café owners.

Study Portal

The only centre in Australia with a portal supporting you before, during, and after your course until you land a job.

INTEGRITY IS EVERYTHING TO ME

What we do behind the scenes matters most, and we take great pride in every single effort we make to improve our training. This includes the support we provide during and after the training to ensure your success. We don’t make false promises, nor do we rely on flashy photos or overhyped marketing. Everything we do at First Shot stems from a sense of responsibility and a genuine desire to help you succeed. We prioritise integrity over hype, equipping our students with the knowledge, hands-on experience, and industry connections they need to excel in an increasingly competitive industry where genuine talent is in short supply.