We are proud to recognize Bob Myron as our Instructor of the Month! With over 30 years of experience as an ACA Instructor, Bob has dedicated his life to sharing the joy and skills of paddlesports with countless individuals. His journey, rich with learning and growth, exemplifies the passion and commitment that inspire others to connect with the water.
Bob’s relationship with paddlecraft and the outdoors began early in life, fueling a love for the water and a desire to share outdoor skills with others. In 1986, he became a licensed Maine Guide and thought he was a skilled paddler—until a challenging river experience proved otherwise. This humbling moment led him to an ACA Whitewater Canoe Skills Course in Northern Maine, where he encountered a transformative learning experience. Inspired by the patience, encouragement, and passion of his instructors, particularly lead instructor Walter Abbot, Bob left the course with a new perspective and a goal: to become an ACA River Canoe Instructor and share his newfound knowledge and inspiration with others.
Shortly after completing his skills course, Bob pursued an Instructor Certification Workshop in Massachusetts, where his journey as an educator truly began. Over the years, he has expanded his certifications, becoming a Whitewater Kayak Instructor, Coastal Kayak Instructor, Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) Instructor, and Instructor Trainer Educator (ITE) in Canoeing and Coastal Kayaking. Today, Bob actively teaches canoeing, kayaking, and SUP through his organization, Outdoor Leader Trainers of America (OLTOA), specializing in training aspiring leaders to share paddlesports with their communities.
Bob’s teaching career is filled with moments that highlight his dedication and empathy. One of the most pivotal lessons he learned as an Instructor Trainer (IT) is the profound impact an ACA certification course can have on participants. Recognizing the importance of thoughtful and encouraging exit interviews, Bob ensures that each candidate feels supported, understands their strengths, and knows how to achieve their goals—even if they fall short of certification on their first attempt. This approach fosters a positive and inspiring experience, encouraging individuals to continue their paddling journey. Bob’s skill in conducting exit interviews emphasizes the importance of clear communication, constructive feedback, and fostering resilience, leaving participants motivated to grow and succeed.
Although Bob has achieved higher-level certifications, his passion lies in teaching Level 1, 2, and 3 courses in canoeing and kayaking and Level 2 in SUP. His teaching takes him across the lakes, rivers, and coastlines of Maine, as well as other states and countries. Despite decades of experience, Bob remains a student of the sport, continually learning and growing from his mentors and peers within the ACA community.
Bob’s ACA journey began on a river in the late 1980s, and it continues to inspire him decades later. He credits the many mentors and icons of the ACA for shaping his path and is committed to passing on that inspiration to others. For those interested in connecting with Bob or learning more about his work, visit his website at www.oltoa.com or contact him via email at bobmyron@live.com.
Congratulations to Bob Myron on being named ACA’s Instructor of the Month, and thank you for your outstanding contributions to the paddlesports community!
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Read about past ACA Instructor of the Month Recipients: https://americancanoe.org/education/for-aca-instructors/instructor-of-the-month/
Nominate a future ACA Instructor of the Month: https://americancanoe.org/instructor-of-the-month-nomination-form/