Spent three years at Western Carolina. After serving as an assistant coach in 2008, he was promoted to assistant head coach before the start of the 2009 season.
During his tenure at WCU, Achilles helped the Catamounts to two winning seasons, including a 35-22 mark in 2009. Along with his work on the field, Achilles also coordinated and oversaw team travel.
He left for Wake Forest after the 2009 season.