In the world of Pokémon, professors are central figures—guiding players through their adventures, whether in the virtual realm of video games or the real-world competitive scene. While gamers may be familiar with Professor Oak from Pokémon Red and Blue, the real-life counterparts are volunteers who help organize and manage Pokémon events globally. These professors, often found in red Pikachu-themed shirts and black pants, are not scientists in labs but passionate fans who dedicate their time to ensuring the smooth running of tournaments and community events. They serve as referees, teachers, and event managers, playing a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the games. At the 2026 Pokémon World Championships in San Francisco, over 300 professors were on hand, each with unique responsibilities depending on the game or event they were assigned to. Some focused on technical support in games like Pokémon Unite, while others provided guidance to new players in trading card game tournaments. Gemma Byard, a head judge at the event, explained that her role involves making final decisions on disputes and ensuring that tournament results are accurately recorded. “We need to make sure match slips are correctly signed and that the venue is safe for everyone,” she said, highlighting the many duties beyond just making rulings. The work of a Pokémon professor often involves travel and multitasking. Evelyne de Groot, who traveled from the Netherlands to San Francisco, described her role as similar to customer service, where she helps players enjoy the game while ensuring rules are followed. She worked at a tournament aimed at women and non-binary players, emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming environment. While some professors enjoy a more relaxed experience, others, like Byard, must handle difficult situations, such as dealing with upset players who challenge rulings. “Sometimes people get frustrated, but we’re there to help resolve the issue,” she said. Despite the challenges, professors remain committed to their roles. While the exact compensation for professors varies—some receive merchandise, others are paid—many emphasize the passion behind their work. As Byard noted, their role is often misunderstood, with players seeing them as the “bad guys” when decisions are made. But for professors, the goal is to ensure fairness and restore order when things go wrong. “We’re there to fix what’s broken,” she said, underscoring the vital, though often unseen, role they play in the Pokémon community.