Every rider remembers the person who first believed in them.
At Appalachian Rider Education Program, our RiderCoaches do more than teach motorcycle skills—they build confidence, change perspectives, and help save lives.
If you enjoy helping others succeed and want to give back to the riding community, we'd love to meet you.
More Than a Job. A Chance to Make a Difference.
Every weekend, people arrive at AREP with excitement, a few nerves, and a genuine desire to succeed.
By the end of the weekend, they've worked hard to accomplish something they may have once thought was out of reach.
They leave more confident.
More knowledgeable.
Better prepared for the road ahead.
Many discover they're capable of far more than they ever imagined.
As a RiderCoach, you'll have the opportunity to help shape that journey—and make a lasting impact on every student who comes through your class.
Why Teach With AREP?
At Appalachian Rider Education Program, we believe great RiderCoaches aren't simply certified—they're developed.
When you join AREP, you become part of a team committed to professionalism, mentorship, and continuous growth. From your first class to your hundredth, you'll be supported by experienced coaches who are invested in your success.
Whether you're answering a student's question, celebrating their first successful turn, or helping them overcome a challenge, you'll never be doing it alone.
Because when our RiderCoaches grow, our students benefit—and that's what our mission is all about.
What You Can Expect
🛡️ Supportive Team Environment
Work alongside RiderCoaches who encourage, mentor, and support one another.
🎓 Professional Development
Continue learning through mentoring, feedback, and ongoing education.
🤝 A Culture of Respect
We value professionalism, teamwork, and treating every student with patience and respect.
❤️ Meaningful Work
Help people gain skills, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for safe riding.
🏍️ Expand Your Skills
As AREP grows, you'll have opportunities to become certified to teach additional motorcycle safety courses and continue developing as an instructor.
Your RiderCoach Journey
💬 1. Let's Get to Know Each Other
Every great RiderCoach starts with a conversation.
We'll get to know you, learn about your riding experience, answer your questions, and determine whether becoming a RiderCoach is the right fit—for both you and AREP.
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👀 2. Mentor with Our Team
Before attending RiderCoach training, you'll spend time alongside our instructors, observing classes and learning how we teach.
This mentorship gives you a firsthand look at the role while allowing us to help prepare you for success.
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🎓 3. Complete the MSF RiderCoach Certification Course
Once you're ready, you'll attend the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) RiderCoach Certification Course and earn your RiderCoach certification.
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🤝 4. Join the Teaching Team
After certification, you'll begin teaching alongside experienced RiderCoaches while continuing to build confidence and refine your instructional skills.
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🌟 5. Continue Growing
As new courses and instructor certifications become available, you'll have opportunities to expand your knowledge, broaden your teaching skills, and continue growing as a RiderCoach.
"When I signed up for the Basic RiderCourse, I never imagined I'd one day become a RiderCoach—let alone own the school.
At the time, I had zero riding experience and zero teaching experience. After completing the course, I was hooked and immediately began mentoring to become a RiderCoach.
Only through the guidance and mentorship of our late founder, Jim Cook, did I develop the skills and confidence to become the RiderCoach I am today. That's one of the reasons I believe so strongly in mentorship—I've been exactly where many of our future coaches start.
We believe great RiderCoaches aren't simply certified—they're developed."
Heather Dunn
Owner • RiderCoach
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous teaching experience?
No. Many outstanding RiderCoaches start as riders with little or no teaching experience. We're looking for people who are passionate about motorcycle safety, enjoy helping others, and are willing to learn.
Through our mentorship process and the MSF RiderCoach Certification Course, we'll help prepare you for success every step of the way.
Do I have enough riding experience?
Every RiderCoach starts somewhere, and every coach brings a different level of riding experience.
We care more about who you are than your odometer.
Dedication to safe riding, a willingness to continue learning, and a genuine desire to help others are far more important to us than the number of miles you've ridden. If you're passionate about motorcycle safety and serious about helping others become safer, more confident riders, we'd love to have a conversation with you.
The miles will come—and so will the experience.
How often do RiderCoaches teach?
RiderCoaches are required to teach a minimum of five classes per year to remain active.
Beyond that, we do our best to provide RiderCoaches with as many teaching opportunities as they'd like, based on their availability and our class schedule.
Whether you prefer teaching just a few weekends each year or becoming one of our more active instructors, we'll work with you to find a schedule that fits your lifestyle.
Is this a paid position?
Yes. Certified RiderCoaches are compensated for every class they teach.
While this isn't a full-time position, it offers a unique opportunity to earn additional income while doing something meaningful. Many of our RiderCoaches teach alongside a full-time career, during retirement, while raising a family, or simply because they enjoy giving back to the riding community.
It's an opportunity to earn extra income while making a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Will AREP help me become a successful RiderCoach?
Absolutely. Before attending the MSF RiderCoach Certification Course, you'll spend time mentoring with our team to learn our teaching philosophy, observe classes, and prepare for success.
Our support doesn't end after certification. We'll continue investing in your growth through mentoring, feedback, and opportunities to expand your instructor certifications as new courses become available.
How do I get started?
It all starts with a conversation.
If you're interested in becoming a RiderCoach, we'd love to learn more about you, answer your questions, and help you determine whether becoming part of the AREP team is the right fit.
We look forward to hearing from you!