The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) has announced the appointment of Charlie Harr as the new Chair and Jen Pereira as Deputy Chair for the National Homebrew Competition (NHC), the most prestigious and expansive global contest for beer, mead, and cider. This transition in leadership arrives as the NHC prepares to open entries for its 2026 iteration on February 3. The NHC, a cornerstone event in the craft fermentation community, has a storied history of identifying and celebrating the finest homebrewed creations from around the world. Its evolution mirrors the broader growth and increasing sophistication of the craft beer and homebrewing movements. The incoming leadership team brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of competition dynamics and the passion that drives homebrewers.
A Legacy of Excellence: The National Homebrew Competition
Founded in 1979 with a modest 34 entries, the National Homebrew Competition has grown exponentially to become a benchmark for quality and innovation in home fermentation. Today, the NHC routinely evaluates nearly 170,000 entries annually, a testament to its enduring appeal and the burgeoning global interest in crafting artisanal beverages. The competition serves as a vital platform for homebrewers to receive expert feedback, hone their skills, and gain recognition for their dedication and artistry. It is not merely a contest but a significant educational and community-building event, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and shared knowledge among participants and judges alike. The NHC’s influence extends beyond the individual brewer, contributing to the overall advancement of brewing techniques and appreciation for diverse flavor profiles within the broader craft beverage landscape. The selection process for NHC chairs is rigorous, seeking individuals with proven leadership, a deep understanding of brewing principles, and a commitment to the AHA’s member-driven ethos.
Introducing the New Leadership Team
Charlie Harr: Charting the Course as NHC Chair
Charlie Harr steps into the role of NHC Chair with over two decades of operational and event management expertise, underpinned by a profound commitment to brewing education and the pursuit of excellence in 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, AHA/Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) sanctioned competitions. In this capacity, Harr has managed the intricate logistics of these events, including judge recruitment, entry coordination, and the effective mobilization of volunteer teams. His dedication to the craft is further evidenced by his ongoing pursuit of BJCP National Judge certification and his long-standing membership in the AHA. Harr is no stranger to the NHC as an entrant himself, having successfully competed in the past, giving him a unique perspective from both sides of the judging table.
"My experience managing large-scale competitions and passion for advancing homebrewing education make this an ideal opportunity to support both the AHA and homebrewing," Harr stated. "I am honored to chair the NHC." This sentiment highlights his personal investment in the growth and development of the homebrewing community and his vision for the NHC’s continued success.
Jen Pereira: A Pillar of Experience as Deputy Chair
Jen Pereira brings an impressive legacy of over 25 years in beverage education, judging, and competition leadership to her role as Deputy Chair. Her credentials are exceptionally strong, including being a BJCP National Beer Judge, a Certified Cicerone®, and a WSET Diploma holder. Pereira’s expertise spans judging and organizing competitions at all levels, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the evaluation process and the operational demands of such events. She is the visionary behind both the Ocean State Home Brew Competition and the Rhode Worthy Cup, showcasing her initiative and dedication to fostering local brewing talent. For more than two decades, Pereira has also contributed her knowledge as an associate professor at Johnson and Wales University, shaping the next generation of beverage professionals. Her past experience as an NHC judge further solidifies her deep connection to the competition and its participants.
"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," Pereira commented. Her commitment reflects a desire to leverage her extensive experience for the benefit of the broader homebrewing community and to amplify the NHC’s reach and influence.
A Strengthened Support System
The leadership of Harr and Pereira will be bolstered by the dedicated NHC Subcommittee, an integral component of the AHA’s operational framework. This subcommittee is comprised of passionate AHA members who contribute significantly to the planning and execution of the competition. Notably, Sandy Cockerham and Amanda Burkemper are at the helm of this crucial volunteer group, ensuring the smooth functioning of various aspects of the NHC.
Julia Herz, AHA Executive Director, expressed her enthusiasm for the new leadership duo. "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," Herz remarked. Her statement underscores the collaborative spirit that defines the NHC and the AHA, emphasizing the vital contributions of all involved parties.
Key Dates and Opportunities for Homebrewers
The window for aspiring homebrewers to submit their creations for the 2026 National Homebrew Competition is set to open on February 3 and will close on February 25. This period represents a critical opportunity for brewers to showcase their skills and have their beers, meads, and ciders evaluated by a panel of highly qualified judges. The AHA strongly encourages brewers to begin their preparations and to stay informed by visiting HomebrewersAssociation.org for the latest updates and information regarding the competition. Membership in the AHA is a prerequisite for entry into the NHC, reinforcing the association’s mission to support and advocate for homebrewers. Those interested in participating are urged to join or renew their AHA membership to ensure they are eligible to enter.
The American Homebrewers Association: A Foundation for Homebrewing
Founded in 1978, the American Homebrewers Association operates as a member-driven organization dedicated to advancing the homebrewing hobby. Its core mission is to deliver exceptional value to its members through a range of benefits, including the esteemed Zymurgy Magazine, access to a repository of NHC-validated recipes, comprehensive resources available on HomebrewersAssociation.org, and exclusive member perks such as AHA Member Deals and the opportunity to receive annual recognition awards. The AHA also proudly recognizes excellence through the National Homebrew Competition Awards. Serving a vast community of tens of thousands of members, the AHA acts as a central hub for homebrewers worldwide, fostering connection and celebrating the collective passion for brewing. The association’s guiding vision is ambitious yet fundamental: "A homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community." This vision underscores the AHA’s commitment to grassroots growth and the democratization of brewing knowledge and practice.
The Enduring Impact of the NHC
The National Homebrew Competition, since its inception, has played an instrumental role in shaping the trajectory of homebrewing and, by extension, the craft beer industry. The competition has consistently identified emerging trends, showcased innovative techniques, and provided a vital training ground for both brewers and judges. The sheer volume of entries processed annually underscores the global reach and profound impact of the NHC. By providing a standardized and rigorous evaluation framework, the competition empowers homebrewers to refine their craft, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in home fermentation. The feedback received from NHC judges is invaluable, offering constructive criticism that helps brewers elevate their creations to new heights. Furthermore, the NHC serves as a powerful networking opportunity, connecting brewers with peers, mentors, and industry professionals. The success of many professional craft breweries can be traced back to the formative experiences and recognition gained through participation in the NHC. The event’s continued growth and influence are indicative of the enduring appeal of the homebrewing hobby and its significant contribution to the vibrant landscape of artisanal beverages. The new leadership’s focus on maintaining the NHC’s high standards while exploring avenues for further growth and accessibility will be crucial in shaping its future.
