The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) has officially announced the appointment of Charlie Harr as the new Chair and Jen Pereira as the Deputy Chair for the National Homebrew Competition (NHC). This pivotal leadership transition comes as preparations for the 2026 NHC are underway, with entries scheduled to open on February 3rd. The NHC stands as the most iconic and competitive global event dedicated to recognizing excellence in beer, mead, and cider crafted by homebrewers. This announcement signifies a strategic move by the AHA, a member-driven organization, to further enhance the competition’s prestige and operational efficiency. The overarching roles and responsibilities of the new leadership team have been further detailed in a supplementary overview, underscoring the AHA’s commitment to transparency and member engagement.
A Legacy of Excellence: The National Homebrew Competition
The National Homebrew Competition boasts a rich history, tracing its origins back to 1979 with an inaugural 34 entries. Over the decades, it has evolved into the world’s largest homebrew competition, attracting and celebrating the finest beer, mead, and cider created by enthusiasts globally. By 2025, the competition was evaluating nearly 170,000 entries annually, a testament to its growth and the burgeoning popularity of homebrewing. The NHC serves as a crucial platform for homebrewers to receive expert feedback, gain recognition for their craft, and connect with a vibrant community of peers, judges, stewards, and organizers. Its influence extends beyond individual accolades, fostering innovation and raising the bar for quality within the homebrewing movement.
Introducing the New Leadership: Charlie Harr, NHC Chair
Charlie Harr steps into the role of NHC Chair with a wealth of experience cultivated over two decades in operations and event management. His deep-seated passion for brewing education and the pursuit of brewing excellence is further evidenced by his extensive involvement in organizing beer competitions. Harr currently serves as the Head Judge for the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild, where he presides over large-scale competitions that are sanctioned by both the AHA and the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP). In this capacity, he is responsible for the intricate logistics, meticulous judge recruitment, efficient entry coordination, and the effective management of volunteer teams. His commitment to professional development within the judging community is further highlighted by his pursuit of BJCP National Judge certification. As a long-standing AHA member and a past participant in the NHC as an entrant, Harr brings a comprehensive understanding of the competition from multiple perspectives.
"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." This sentiment reflects his dedication to the growth and advancement of the homebrewing community.
Julia Herz, AHA Executive Director, expressed her enthusiasm for the new leadership, stating, "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’s statement emphasizes the collaborative spirit and the collective effort that underpins the success of the NHC.
Jen Pereira: A Driving Force as Deputy Chair
Jen Pereira brings an impressive background of over 25 years in beverage education, judging, and competition leadership to her role as Deputy Chair. Her credentials include being a BJCP National Beer Judge, a Certified Cicerone®, and holding a WSET Diploma. Pereira’s extensive experience spans judging and organizing competitions at all levels, solidifying her reputation as a leading figure in the beverage industry. She is the visionary behind the successful Ocean State Home Brew Competition and the Rhode Worthy Cup, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to fostering brewing communities. For over two decades, she has also contributed significantly as an associate professor at Johnson and Wales University, shaping the next generation of beverage professionals. As a past NHC judge and an avid homebrewer herself, Pereira possesses an intimate understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by NHC 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," remarked Jen Pereira. Her words underscore a deep sense of gratitude and a forward-looking vision for the competition.
The NHC Subcommittee: Pillars of Support
Harr and Pereira will not be operating in isolation. They will be bolstered by the dedicated NHC Subcommittee, a crucial operational arm of the AHA. This subcommittee is expertly led by AHA members Sandy Cockerham and Amanda Burkemper, whose collective experience and commitment are vital to the smooth execution of the competition. The subcommittee comprises a network of passionate volunteers who manage various aspects of the NHC, from entry processing to judging coordination and awards ceremonies. Their tireless efforts ensure that the competition adheres to the highest standards of fairness and organization.
Key Dates and How to Participate
The window for homebrewers to submit their entries for the 2026 National Homebrew Competition is set to open on February 3rd and will close on February 25th. This limited timeframe encourages brewers to finalize their creations and submit them for evaluation. Aspiring participants are urged to begin their brewing endeavors promptly to meet the submission deadline. For the most up-to-date information regarding the competition, including registration details, rules, and category breakdowns, participants should regularly monitor HomebrewersAssociation.org. Membership with the AHA is a prerequisite for entering the NHC, underscoring the association’s role in supporting and championing the homebrewing community. Interested individuals can join or renew their AHA membership at HomebrewersAssociation.org/membership/join-or-renew/.
About the American Homebrewers Association (AHA)
Founded in 1978, the American Homebrewers Association operates as a member-driven entity, dedicated to the advancement and celebration of homebrewing. The AHA provides its tens of thousands of members with unparalleled benefits, including access to the esteemed Zymurgy Magazine, a vast repository of NHC-validated recipes, comprehensive resources available on HomebrewersAssociation.org, and exclusive rewards such as AHA Member Deals and prestigious Annual Recognition Awards. The AHA’s vision is to foster a thriving homebrewing culture, aiming for "A homebrewer in every neighborhood and a homebrew club in every community." This ambitious goal reflects the association’s commitment to making homebrewing accessible and enjoyable for everyone, while simultaneously building strong, supportive local communities.
The National Homebrew Competition (NHC) in Context
The National Homebrew Competition, established in 1979, has grown exponentially from its humble beginnings. Today, it stands as a beacon for homebrewers worldwide, recognizing the pinnacle of achievement in beer, mead, and cider creation. The competition’s rigorous judging process, conducted by highly skilled and certified individuals, provides invaluable feedback that helps homebrewers refine their techniques and expand their brewing horizons. The NHC’s expansive reach and the sheer volume of entries underscore its significance as a cornerstone of the global homebrewing landscape. The annual evaluation of nearly 170,000 entries since 2025 highlights the sustained growth and enduring appeal of this premier event. The NHC not only celebrates individual achievements but also plays a vital role in fostering innovation, sharing knowledge, and elevating the craft of homebrewing for all participants.
The appointment of Charlie Harr and Jen Pereira signifies a commitment to maintaining and enhancing the NHC’s esteemed position within the brewing world. Their combined expertise and dedication are poised to guide the competition through its next chapter, ensuring its continued success and its vital role in the homebrewing community. The opening of entries on February 3rd marks the beginning of another exciting journey for homebrewers around the globe, eager to showcase their passion and skill on the most respected stage in the industry.
