Certified BBQ Judge (CBJ)

Get ready to turn your love of BBQ into something official — and thrilling! This KCBS Certified BBQ Judge class gives you the keys to judge on the biggest BBQ stages across the country and around the world.

When: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Cost: $125

Must be a KCBS member to attend class. You can sign up here

What you’ll experience:

• High-energy, hands-on training led by KCBS instructors.

• Learn to evaluate world-class chicken, ribs, pork and brisket using the same standards pro contests use.

• Taste authentic competition entries as you learn — sharpen your palate while you score.

• Practical, half-day format gets you ready fast: by the end of the class you’ll be prepared to sign up and judge at local competitions.

Why take it:

• Join the community of official BBQ judges and gain credentials recognized nationwide.

• Deepen your BBQ knowledge, improve your tasting skills, and be part of the action behind the tents.

• Fun, social, and delicious — this is the fastest route from fan to official judge.

Space is limited — sign up and step into the heart of competitive BBQ!

KCBS CERTIFIED TABLE CAPTAIN (CTC)

When: 2:30 – 4 P
Cost: $125

Must be a KCBS member to attend class. You can sign up here

A Certified Table Captain (CTC) does not judge the food. Instead, they manage the judging table and ensure the process runs smoothly and fairly.

Responsibilities

• Present turn‑in boxes to judges in the correct order.

• Verify box numbers, check for rule compliance, and report issues (e.g., foreign objects).

• Manage the flow of entries so judges receive them properly.

• Record and organize paperwork for the KCBS Contest Reps.

• May assist with other volunteer duties such as turn‑in or leftovers.

Certification allows you to serve as a Table Captain at KCBS contests.