At Virtual Pizza Academy, our mission has always been clear: deliver real-world pizza education grounded in current industry experience. That’s why we’re proud to share that Jim Mirabelli, Co-Founder of Virtual Pizza Academy, has been named to the PMQ Cover Stars Council—a select group of professionals recognized for their leadership and insight within the pizza industry.
The council, formed by PMQ Pizza Magazine, brings together operators and educators who actively shape the future of pizza. Members are chosen specifically for their ability to stay connected to evolving trends, operational challenges, and the real needs of independent pizzerias. You can read more about the PMQ Cover Stars Council and its mission in PMQ’s original article here:https://www.pmq.com/finger-on-the-pulse-introducing-the-pmq-cover-stars-council/.
Recognizing Leadership in the Pizza Industry
The PMQ Cover Stars Council exists to ensure industry conversations are led by people who are actively involved in pizza—those running kitchens, teaching professionals, and working directly with operators. Council members meet regularly to discuss the state of the industry, from production techniques and ingredient sourcing to business strategy and consumer expectations.
Being named to the council is a recognition of industry leadership, practical experience, and a demonstrated commitment to helping pizza makers succeed.
Pizza Education Built on Real-World Experience
Jim’s selection reflects the same approach that defines Virtual Pizza Academy’s curriculum. As an educator and consultant, Jim works closely with pizza professionals at every stage—from home pizza makers refining technique to independent operators focused on community outreach and improving consistency.
This hands-on experience ensures that VPA’s pizza education is not theoretical—it’s practical, tested, and immediately applicable in real kitchens.
Why Industry Insight Matters in Pizza Training
The pizza industry continues to evolve rapidly. New equipment, changing ingredient costs, shifting consumer expectations, and increased competition mean that ongoing education is essential for long-term success.
Jim’s role on the PMQ Cover Stars Council helps ensure that Virtual Pizza Academy stays aligned with where the industry is heading. That insight directly informs VPA’s live classes, on-demand courses, and professional pizza calculators—giving students tools that reflect today’s realities, not outdated methods.
What This Means for Virtual Pizza Academy Students
For VPA students, this recognition reinforces a core promise:
you’re learning from leaders who are actively shaping the pizza industry.
Every class, handbook, and resource offered by Virtual Pizza Academy is influenced by real conversations with pizza makers, operators, and industry partners. Jim’s participation on the PMQ Cover Stars Council strengthens that connection and ensures our education remains relevant, forward-thinking, and rooted in industry leadership.
We’re honored to see Jim recognized among respected voices in the pizza community—and excited to continue delivering professional pizza education informed by real-world experience and industry insight.
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