Frankie grew up in Ohio and began backpacking the Appalachian region in high school. This passion for the outdoors led to a role as the Trips Program Manager for the Ohio State University’s Outdoor Adventure Center, leading backpacking, rock climbing, and kayaking trips throughout the US. After graduating with a degree in Engineering Physics, he travelled the country surfing and rock climbing before landing in Santa Cruz, California working as an R&D Engineer for UC Santa Cruz and playing music in several touring bands.
The flexibility of work led to increased international travel through Central and South America, and expanded the desire to explore a meaningful life connected with nature. Having taken a leave from the 9-5, he spent the winter in Costa Rica volunteering at a permaculture farm, a month in India earning a 200 Hr Yoga Teacher Training, trekked the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal, and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Data Science and Engineering Management, where he intends to focus his attention on Environmental Sustainability and Conservation.
Frankie is excited to return to the guide role this summer with ARCC and share his love for nature and a connected world community. In his free time you will find him with friends surfing, bike riding, trail running, cooking, and sharing in the joy of a beautiful song!