Introducing: Emily at the Sandpoint cafe
Emily is the Production Roaster at Evans Brothers Coffee in Sandpoint, and she is one of those people who somehow does a little bit of everything. She keeps the roasting side of the operation moving with focus, consistency, and a good sense of humor. Her work happens mostly behind the scenes, but it plays a huge role in every cup.
When she is not roasting, Emily is usually riding her mountain bike, deep into a game of DND or Magic the Gathering, or hanging out with friends. During long roast days, she keeps things interesting with metal, rock, or musical soundtracks, mixed with finance podcasts and fantasy or romance audiobooks. That mix of curiosity and creativity shows up in her roasting and makes her an essential part of the team.
The craft: What part of the roasting process do you enjoy most, and why?
“I like how every day is different. The challenge of roasting a new specialty coffee for the first time is so much fun,” Emily says. “Especially tasting it beside the sample roasts and the first batch or two that our lead roaster Daniel does and seeing how it compares.”
For Emily, roasting is a balance of curiosity and precision. Comparing early batches, dialing in profiles, and paying close attention to how each coffee responds keeps the work engaging. Depending on the coffee, the process can get very scientific, and that challenge is part of what makes roasting so rewarding for her.
The reality: What is one thing most people don’t realize about being a coffee roaster?
While roasting often happens away from the café floor, the passion is just as front and center.
“Most of us really love to talk and nerd out about coffee, some of us a bit too much,” Emily laughs. “We love answering questions, but most people are too afraid to ask them. We might be more behind the scenes, but we know just as much, if not more, than the baristas. Please nerd out with us.”
Roasters spend their days thinking deeply about flavor, process, and how small changes can make a big difference in the cup. For Emily, the best part is sharing that knowledge and inviting people into the conversation.
The journey: How did you get into coffee roasting in the first place?
“I started my coffee journey at Starbucks as a barista. That’s where I learned the basics,” Emily says. “After about three and a half years, I wanted to change things up. I took a break from coffee but realized I missed it too much.”
That pull brought her back to coffee through Evans Brothers, where she started as a production worker. When the opportunity to move into roasting opened up, she stepped into the role and never looked back. Three years at Evans Brothers and two years roasting later, Emily has fully found her place behind the roaster.
The taste: How do you like to enjoy coffee when you are off the clock?
When she is on the clock or stops in on a day off, Emily usually reaches for a maple cappuccino made with our single origin espresso or a cold brew.
“Honestly, I think I drink too much coffee while I’m at work, so I don’t really want to brew it when I’m home,” Emily laughs. “I didn’t grow up with my parents drinking coffee, so my go to is tea.”
Even off the clock, her choices are simple, thoughtful, and rooted in flavor.
The heart: How would you describe the culture or community behind the scenes at Evans Brothers?
Behind the scenes, the team is close, supportive, and genuinely enjoys spending time together.
“Honestly, it reminds me of when I first started my coffee journey,” Emily says. “I actually see a lot of the same regulars I served at Starbucks back in the day. We are homies and tight knit.”
While coffee is a big part of the job, it is far from the only thing they talk about. From music to games to shared interests, the production team brings a nerdy, creative energy that makes Evans Brothers feel like a place where people truly belong.
Brewing connection, one cup at a time
Emily’s work may happen out of sight, but it shapes every cup that leaves Evans Brothers Coffee. Her attention to detail, curiosity, and steady presence ensure that each roast reflects the care and craft the company is known for. From early mornings at the roaster to the music and stories that keep her company along the way, Emily brings heart to the process and helps turn great green coffee into something worth sharing.
Written by Allie Drinkward