Behind every great espresso, there is much more than a coffee machine. There is expertise, passion, and dedicated professionals working behind the scenes every day to ensure outstanding performance and reliable service.
This is the spirit behind the Nuova Simonelli Technicians Competition—an initiative designed not only to recognize technical excellence, but also to build an international community where professionals can connect, exchange knowledge, and grow together.
Sharing their experiences are Mohammad Yahya, winner of the Nuova Simonelli Technicians Competition Dubai 2026, and Alex Sacco, winner of the UK edition. Their journeys may be different, but they both reflect the same message: when you invest in people, the impact goes far beyond a competition.
A Victory That Builds Confidence
For Mohammad, who has worked with Nuova Simonelli machines for more than 25 years, reaching the top of the podium was first and foremost recognition of his professional journey.
“Being the champion of the Nuova Simonelli Technicians Competition Dubai 2026 made me very happy and proud. This experience increased my confidence both professionally and personally.”
Alex also sees the victory as a starting point rather than a destination:
“Winning the Nuova Simonelli Technicians Competition UK 2026 was a real honour. It strengthened my confidence, reinforced the value of continuous learning, and motivated me to keep developing both personally and professionally.”
Their words reflect one of the Competition’s main goals: helping technicians develop new skills while gaining greater confidence in their own abilities.
The Real Strength? The Community
More than the competition itself, what stayed with both winners was the opportunity to connect with fellow technicians.
Mohammad enthusiastically recalls his conversations with other participants:
“It was very interesting to meet other technicians and discuss the competition with them. Everyone has their own way of thinking and approaching coffee machine repairs. This exchange of ideas was extremely helpful in expanding my experience.”
Alex shares the same feeling:
“What stayed with me the most was everyone’s willingness to share knowledge and learn from one another. Despite our different backgrounds and countries, we all share the same passion: delivering the best possible service to customers.”
This is the true philosophy of the Technicians Competition: transforming a contest into a collective learning experience where knowledge is shared and every interaction becomes an opportunity to grow.
Celebrating the People Behind the Coffee Industry
Beyond the personal achievement, both champions highlighted another important aspect of the competition: the recognition it gives to a profession that often works behind the scenes.
Mohammad expressed his appreciation for the initiative:
“I would like to thank Nuova Simonelli for creating a competition that recognizes and celebrates technicians. Our work often takes place behind the scenes, but technicians play a fundamental role in the success of coffee shops, roasters, chains, and baristas. It is rewarding to see our contribution valued in this way.”
Alex shares the same perspective:
“A huge thank you to Nuova Simonelli for giving visibility to technicians through this competition. We are rarely in the spotlight, yet we are an essential part of the coffee industry. By celebrating technical professionals, Nuova Simonelli is highlighting the people who help ensure quality, consistency, and reliability for everyone involved in the coffee journey.”
Their reflections underline a key message behind the Nuova Simonelli Technicians Competition: great coffee depends not only on equipment and barista skills, but also on the expertise of the technical professionals who ensure everything performs at its best every day.
Never Stop Learning
For Alex, continuous learning remains one of the most important aspects of the profession:
“The competition reinforced the importance of taking a methodical approach, communicating clearly, remaining calm under pressure, and focusing on long-term solutions rather than quick fixes.”
Mohammad’s story perfectly represents the spirit of perseverance that drives the Competition. Before becoming champion in 2026, he had already participated in the previous edition without achieving the result he hoped for.
“I was also a competitor in 2025, but I didn’t win. That’s why I believe it’s important to keep trying and never give up.”
It is a powerful message for technicians facing new challenges every day.
Recognizing Those Who Create Value
Coffee machines continue to evolve, becoming increasingly connected and technologically advanced. Yet one thing remains unchanged: the value of people.
Alex believes the future will require technicians to be increasingly adaptable and curious:
“Alongside strong technical knowledge, adaptability, digital skills, and a commitment to continuous learning will be essential.”
As Mohammad explains:
“Even if machines continue to evolve, human intelligence and expertise will always remain essential.”
To support this professional evolution, Nuova Simonelli continues to invest in training and in the growth of its global network of technicians.
Much More Than a Competition
When asked to describe the mission of a Nuova Simonelli technician, both winners chose words that perfectly summarize the values behind the role.
For Mohammad:
“Confidence, Precision and Spirit.”
For Alex:
“Reliability, Precision and Partnership.”
Different words, united by the same idea: a technician is not simply someone who repairs a machine. A technician plays a direct role in coffee quality, customer success, and the reputation of the entire industry.
Your Next Challenge Awaits
The stories of Mohammad and Alex demonstrate that the Nuova Simonelli Technicians Competition is far more than a technical challenge. It is a project that puts people first, celebrates talent, and creates a global network of professionals eager to share expertise, experience, and passion.
The next event will take place September 12–14 in France, during the Paris Coffee Show, featuring a new edition of the Nuova Simonelli Technicians Competition.
Because behind every great machine, every great coffee, and every great service experience, there is always a great technician. And Nuova Simonelli is proud to stand alongside them every day, supporting their growth and helping them express their full potential.
