(Bentonville, Ark.) The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA), in partnership with NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC), is proud to announce the launch of the new NBDA Certified Bicycle Service Technician microcredential program — a first-of-its-kind certification pathway designed to elevate professional bicycle technician education, improve service department performance, and strengthen the future of Specialty Bicycle Retail.
Enrollment for the program opens June 1, 2026, with some classes beginning July 1, 2026.
Developed for working bicycle technicians and service professionals, the program combines flexible online learning with hands-on technical assessments completed at NWACC’s nationally recognized bicycle technician training facility in Bentonville, Arkansas. The self-paced format allows technicians from across North America and beyond to participate while continuing to work in their shops.
The microcredential consists of five online courses totaling 125 hours of instruction, paired with four in-person technical assessments completed during a scheduled two-day evaluation session at NWACC.
Participants will learn modern bicycle service techniques applicable across all bicycle brands and categories, along with operational and business practices designed to improve efficiency, consistency, and profitability within service departments.
“This program represents a major milestone for our industry,” said Heather Mason, Executive Director of the NBDA. “For years, bicycle retailers have needed a recognized, standardized certification pathway that helps elevate the role of professional bicycle technicians while creating greater consistency in service quality and technical standards across the industry.
“We’re incredibly excited to partner with NWACC to help bring this important program to life. Together, we’re helping professionalize and strengthen the future of bicycle retail and service while giving technicians accessible, high-level education that supports long-term career growth.”
NWACC Executive Director of Trails Trade Schools and Construction Technology Megan Bolinder said the partnership expands access to high-quality technician education while maintaining rigorous industry standards.
“NWACC’s Bicycle Assembly and Repair Technician degree program already sets the benchmark for training new bicycle technicians,” said Bolinder. “Now, through this partnership with NBDA, we can credential practitioners already working in the field anywhere in the country, online and on their schedule. Partnering with NBDA means this microcredential carries weight across the entire bicycle industry.”
The program builds on NWACC’s leadership in workforce education and its growing portfolio of microcredentials, which are designed to help students quickly upskill, pivot careers, and earn stackable credentials in less than a year.
Students earn a digital badge after completing each course, and upon successful completion of all five courses and assessments, participants receive the official NBDA Certified Bicycle Service Technician microcredential.
Graduates will gain advanced technical knowledge, improved operational understanding, and increased marketability within the bicycle industry.
To learn more about the program and enrollment opportunities, visit the NWACC NBDA Certified Bicycle Service Technician program webpage.
About NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC)
NWACC is an accredited, public two-year institution that serves and strengthens its surrounding communities by helping students maximize their potential and exceed expectations. With state-of-the-art facilities, NWACC provides excellent academic instruction, workforce training, and personalized attention from highly respected faculty, staff, and administrators. For more information about NWACC, visit here.
About the National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA)
The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA) is the bicycle industry’s longest-standing retail association, serving Specialty Bicycle Retailers since 1946. As a non-profit organization, the NBDA is dedicated to strengthening Specialty Bicycle Retailers through education, research, communication, advocacy, and community support. Representing retailers across North America, the NBDA works to enhance retailer profitability, promote excellence in bicycle retail, and support the growth of cycling communities. Through industry partnerships, professional development programs, and retailer-focused resources, the NBDA helps build a stronger, more sustainable bicycle industry for the future. Learn more here.
