ROB FREY

NAME: ROB FREY
ROLES: LEAD ARCHAEOLOGIST | EXPLORER | FIELD EXPERT
CONTACT: R.FREY@AREASGREY.COM
BASE OF OPERATIONS: GERMANY & GLOBAL EXPEDITIONS
EXPERTISE:

  • ARCHAEOLOGICAL FIELD RESEARCH & EXCAVATION

  • ARTEFACT AUTHENTICATION & PROVENANCE

  • EXPEDITION PLANNING & LOGISTICS

  • DRONE PILOTING & AERIAL SURVEYING

  • WILDERNESS NAVIGATION & GPS MAPPING

  • PHOTOGRAPHY & DOCUMENTATION

BIO:

Rob Frey is an operations specialist, field researcher, and strategist with expertise in logistics, historical investigations, and expedition planning. With a background in archaeology and extensive fieldwork, he has been instrumental in organizing and executing complex exploration missions worldwide.​

Based in Germany, Rob excels at combining thorough research with practical application, ensuring each expedition operates smoothly and effectively. His proficiency in coordinating resources, navigating administrative processes, and evaluating operational feasibility is vital to Areas Grey's fieldwork.​

From in-depth historical analysis to on-site excavation and preservation, Rob plays a crucial role in uncovering and documenting history. His methodical yet flexible approach balances precision with the dynamic nature of field exploration.

SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES:

    • Archaeological field research and excavation across various time periods

    • Artefact authentication, cleaning, and provenance studies

    • Cartography and geospatial analysis

    • Historical document analysis and archival research​

    • Satellite and LiDAR imaging for site identification

    • Investigative research and historical verification​

    • Excavation reports and documentation​

    • Site, feature, and artefact security and interpretation​

    • Structure from Motion (SfM) and 3D model creation for artefacts and sites​

    • Photography and documentation for research and media​

    • Investigative journalism, travel writing, research, and cultural analysis​

    • Historical research and travel journalism with in-depth cultural analysis

    • Expedition planning, logistics, and risk assessment​

    • Remote site setup and safety management

    • Wilderness navigation and GPS mapping

    • Subterranean and cave exploration​

    • River and coastal surveys​

    • Extensive global travel experience across Europe, Asia, Nepal, the Caribbean, North Africa, and Mexico…

    • Certified drone pilot with expertise in aerial surveying and reconnaissance

    • Specialized equipment operation, including ground-penetrating radar (GPR), magnetometers, LiDAR, and excavators

    • Licensed drone operator specializing in aerial imaging and surveying​

    • Vehicle operation proficiency with 4x4s, ATVs, watercraft, and heavy machinery

    • Excavation and recovery techniques, including operation of heavy machinery

    • Kayaking, climbing, and high-altitude survival training​

    • Certified medical training in first aid, field medicine, and medication administration​

    • Certified Fire Protection Officer with expertise in on-site and office safety

    • Military training focusing on survival, endurance, and tactical adaptability​

    • Combat skills in Muay Thai, close-quarters combat (CQC), knife combat (Level 2), and small firearms proficiency

    • Mission and team coordination for international and high-profile expeditions​

    • Entrepreneurial experience in photography, videography, and journalism​

    • Collaboration with historians, treasure hunters, and specialists​

    • Navigating legal and ethical considerations in fieldwork​

    • Adaptive decision-making in high-stakes environments

    • German (Native)​

    • English (Fluent)​

    • Ancient Latin (Proficient)​

    • Nepali (Basic)​

    • Spanish (In Training)​

    • Chinese (In Training)

Philosophy & Approach

Rob operates with a mindset that precision and preparation are the cornerstones of successful exploration. While the thrill of discovery is undeniable, he believes that true success lies in thorough research, well-planned logistics, and the ability to adapt when the unexpected arises. His role in Areas Grey ensures that every operation runs smoothly, efficiently, and with the highest degree of professional execution.

Person climbing inside a stone structure with a rope, wearing casual clothes and boots.

EXPERIENCE