JaVon Mifflin
Hospitality Manager / INstructor
JaVon Mifflin’s passion for hospitality runs deep, rooted in the example set by his grandmother, who raised him in New Britain, Connecticut. Born on Saint Patrick's Day, JaVon never had the chance to fully know his biological parents. However, being raised by his grandmother, a compassionate and hardworking nurse, gave him a unique perspective on life and community care. "My grandmother was a superwoman," JaVon often recalls. "She spent her days taking care of others, and I had the privilege to witness that up close." Watching her dedication to serving people sparked the values that would later drive JaVon’s career in hospitality.
JaVon’s first step into the industry came when he was just 17, starting as a bar back. It was a humble position, but he embraced it wholeheartedly, absorbing everything he could about service, efficiency, and customer care. By the time he turned 21, JaVon had honed his craft and become a skilled bartender, known for his creative specialty drinks and his ability to connect with customers from all walks of life. "I loved crafting drinks, not just because of the ingredients, but because of the way you could bring joy to someone’s day, even if they were a stranger," JaVon says.
As JaVon’s passion for hospitality grew, so did his aspirations. Seeking new challenges and experiences, he moved to New York City when he turned 33. There, he took a position at Max Brenner Chocolate Shop, an iconic spot that allowed him to immerse himself in the fast-paced, diverse environment of the city. "New York was a game-changer for me. The energy, the people, the pace—it taught me how to manage high volumes while still giving each guest a personal experience." This period was one of immense growth for JaVon, as he sharpened his skills and learned to thrive in a dynamic, often unpredictable setting.
It was during this time that JaVon met someone who invited him to take his talents to the seas, working as a bartender and server on cruise ships. This experience took him from the Columbia and Snake Rivers of the Pacific Northwest, all the way to the San Juan Islands in Vancouver and even Alaska. "Working on a cruise ship was like nothing else. You’re constantly meeting new people, traveling to new places, but the core of the job—making people feel welcomed and cared for—never changes."
After his travels, JaVon returned to New York City and took a position with Great Performances Catering as a Captain. Here, he was responsible for leading teams and ensuring that high-profile events ran smoothly, further solidifying his leadership skills and attention to detail.
In 2020, JaVon faced one of the most difficult moments of his life when he lost his grandmother, his greatest role model. Her passing devastated him, but it also deepened his commitment to honoring her legacy. In 2023, feeling a pull to return to his roots, JaVon moved back to New Britain and soon after joined Fire by Forge. "I didn’t know what to expect when I came back, but when I learned about Fire by Forge and what they were doing for the community, it clicked. This is where I’m supposed to be."
Today, as Hospitality Manager at Fire by Forge, JaVon brings his extensive experience and deep sense of purpose to his role. For him, hospitality is not just about great service—it’s about meeting people where they are, fostering community, and giving others the chance to thrive in the food and hospitality industry. Through his work, JaVon continues to honor his grandmother’s legacy, striving to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued.