Jim Henry is a pizza educator, content creator, and co-founder of Virtual Pizza Academy, recognized for blending real-world pizza operations, modern media, and high-level technique into accessible education for home pizza makers and professionals alike.
After building a strong foundation in dough and fermentation, Jim focused on refining pizza processes in commercial environments, honing systems that emphasize efficiency, consistency, and streamlined workflows. This operational mindset continues to influence both his cooking style and his teaching approach.
As his skills developed, Jim strategically grew a social media presence by analyzing market trends, audience behavior, and emerging formats—helping his content stand out in a crowded space while educating and inspiring a global pizza community. His distinctive Detroit-style pizzas, known for dramatic frico edges, earned him the nickname “The Frico King,” with creations that look as striking as they are technical.
Jim’s growing influence led to his role as an Ooni Ambassador, where he helps promote and raise awareness for the full lineup of Ooni products through education-driven content and demonstrations. He has also collaborated with respected industry leaders including Stanislaus Tomatoes, Corto Olive Oil, LloydPans, Hormel Foods, and others—further solidifying his credibility within the professional pizza space.
Building on this momentum, Jim co-founded Virtual Pizza Academy alongside Jim Mirabelli, growing it into a trusted voice in online pizza education. VPA is known for its professionally produced, interactive classes that bridge the gap between home kitchens and commercial pizza operations.
Jim has competed at the International Pizza Expo, placing 19th out of 92 competitors in the Non-Traditional category, and has been invited to exclusive industry experiences including the Stanislaus Tomatoes and Corto Olive Oil Summer Harvest in California and advanced hands-on training in traditional Neapolitan techniques.
In 2026, Jim will take the Pizza Expo stage as an invited presenter, demonstrating Detroit-style pizza alongside Tony Gemignani and Eddie Stalewski—a milestone that reflects his evolution from passionate pizza maker to respected industry educator.
Jim was selected to serve as an official judge for the International Pizza Challenge at the 2026 International Pizza Expo in Las Vegas — one of the most prestigious pizza competitions in the world. After completing certification through the Competition Committee, he is now a Certified IPC Judge, recognized for his technical knowledge, attention to detail, and deep understanding of dough development, fermentation, baking techniques, and overall pizza execution.
This distinction reflects his commitment not only to teaching pizza at the highest level, but also to upholding and evaluating world-class standards alongside some of the most respected professionals in the global pizza community.
Based in Harleysville, Pennsylvania, Jim continues to cook for friends, family, and live audiences, including regular pop-ups at Branch Creek Taphouse in Souderton, PA. He documents his ongoing work on Instagram at @Jimmyhank_Pizza and continues expanding the reach and impact of Virtual Pizza Academy worldwide.