The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) has announced the appointment of Charlie Harr as the new Chair and Jen Pereira as the Deputy Chair for the National Homebrew Competition (NHC), the preeminent global contest for homebrewed beer, mead, and cider. This leadership transition ushers in a new era for an event that has been a cornerstone of the homebrewing community for decades, with the submission window for the 2026 NHC set to open on February 3. The NHC’s enduring legacy is built on fostering excellence and innovation among home fermentation enthusiasts worldwide, drawing thousands of entries each year.
A Legacy of Competition and Community
The National Homebrew Competition boasts a rich history, dating back to its inception in 1979 with a modest 34 entries. Over the ensuing decades, it has evolved into the world’s largest and most prestigious event of its kind. By 2025, the competition was evaluating nearly 170,000 entries annually, a testament to its expansive reach and the burgeoning global interest in home fermentation. This significant growth reflects not only the increasing popularity of homebrewing but also the dedication of countless volunteers, including top beer judges, stewards, and organizational leaders, who contribute to its success. The NHC serves as a vital platform for homebrewers to receive expert feedback, benchmark their creations against international standards, and gain recognition within a passionate and discerning community. Its impact extends beyond individual accolades, fostering a culture of shared learning and continuous improvement that benefits the entire homebrewing ecosystem.
New Leadership Brings Extensive Expertise
Charlie Harr steps into the role of NHC Chair with over two decades of experience in operations and event management, coupled with a profound commitment to brewing education and the meticulous organization of beer competitions. His extensive background includes serving as head judge for the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild, where he has been instrumental in overseeing large-scale competitions sanctioned by both the AHA and the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP). In this capacity, Harr has honed his skills in managing complex logistics, recruiting qualified judges, coordinating entries, and leading volunteer teams – all critical elements for the smooth operation of a competition of the NHC’s magnitude. He is currently on a path to achieve BJCP National Judge certification, demonstrating his deep engagement with the technical aspects of beer evaluation. As a long-standing AHA member and a past NHC entrant, Harr brings a unique perspective informed by both competitive participation and organizational leadership.
"My experience managing large-scale competitions and passion for advancing homebrewing education make this an ideal opportunity to support both the AHA and homebrewing," stated Charlie Harr. "I am honored to chair the NHC."
Complementing Harr’s operational prowess, Jen Pereira assumes the position of Deputy Chair, bringing over 25 years of distinguished experience in beverage education, judging, and competition leadership. Pereira’s credentials are exceptionally strong: she is a BJCP National Beer Judge, a Certified Cicerone®, and holds a WSET Diploma, underscoring her comprehensive understanding of beverage quality and assessment. Her involvement in the competition circuit spans all levels, from local events to national championships. Pereira is also the visionary founder of both the Ocean State Home Brew Competition and the Rhode Worthy Cup, initiatives that have demonstrably enriched the homebrewing landscape in her region. Her academic background as an associate professor at Johnson & Wales University for over two decades has further solidified her expertise in beverage studies and education. As a past NHC judge and an active homebrewer herself, Pereira offers a well-rounded perspective that bridges the gap between the judges’ bench and the brewer’s kettle.
"This role is a meaningful way to give back to a community that has given me so much, and I’m proud to help lead the AHA and help grow the NHC’s impact," remarked Jen Pereira.
A Collaborative Vision for the Future
The appointment of Harr and Pereira signifies a strategic move by the AHA, a member-driven organization deeply committed to empowering its community. Julia Herz, AHA Executive Director, expressed her enthusiasm for the new leadership team: "The AHA and National Homebrew Competition are extremely fortunate to have Charlie and Jen stepping up to lead along with the collective volunteer judges, competition organizers, subcommittee and AHA member entrants." This sentiment highlights the collaborative spirit that underpins the NHC’s success, emphasizing the vital contributions of a broad network of dedicated individuals.
Harr and Pereira will be further supported by the NHC Subcommittee, comprised of dedicated AHA members, with Sandy Cockerham and Amanda Burkemper leading this crucial operational arm. This layered leadership structure ensures that the NHC can continue to operate efficiently and effectively, managing the vast number of entries and maintaining the high standards for which it is renowned. The AHA’s commitment to a member-driven approach means that the direction of the NHC will continue to be informed by the needs and aspirations of its dedicated homebrewing membership.
Key Dates and Opportunities for Homebrewers
Entries for the 2026 National Homebrew Competition are slated to open on February 3 and will close on February 25. This limited window underscores the importance of meticulous preparation for potential entrants. Homebrewers are encouraged to begin formulating their brewing plans and to stay informed by monitoring HomebrewersAssociation.org for the latest updates and guidelines. Membership in the AHA is a prerequisite for entering the NHC, reinforcing the association’s mission to support and grow the homebrewing community through direct engagement and benefits. The AHA offers a suite of resources, including access to award-winning recipes, educational materials, and member-exclusive deals, all designed to enhance the homebrewing experience.
The American Homebrewers Association: A Pillar of the Community
Founded in 1978, the American Homebrewers Association operates on a foundation of member-driven leadership and a commitment to delivering exceptional value. Its core offerings include Zymurgy magazine, a leading publication for homebrewers, and a repository of NHC-validated recipes that serve as benchmarks for quality and innovation. The organization’s comprehensive online resources at HomebrewersAssociation.org provide a wealth of information, from brewing techniques to competition insights. Furthermore, the AHA actively fosters community through member deals, annual recognition awards, and the prestigious National Homebrew Competition Awards. With tens of thousands of members worldwide, the AHA champions a vision of "A homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community," actively working to expand the reach and accessibility of homebrewing.
The National Homebrew Competition: A Global Benchmark
The National Homebrew Competition, established with a pioneering spirit in 1979, has grown exponentially to become the definitive global benchmark for homebrewed beer, mead, and cider. Its rigorous judging process, administered by highly qualified BJCP-certified judges, ensures that every entry receives thorough evaluation based on established style guidelines and overall quality. The competition not only celebrates the artistry and dedication of homebrewers but also plays a crucial role in advancing the craft by identifying emerging trends and techniques. The vast number of entries evaluated annually provides invaluable data on the state of homebrewing globally, informing brewing practices and inspiring future generations of fermenters. The NHC’s continued success is a testament to the enduring passion and skill of the homebrewing community and the AHA’s unwavering commitment to supporting its growth and evolution. The competition’s stringent standards and broad appeal solidify its position as an indispensable event for anyone passionate about the art and science of fermentation.
