Former Air Force member, Rob Anderson is not just a scuba instructor; he is a mentor who uses the therapeutic qualities of water to heal and empower. With an intimate relationship with water since childhood—engaging in fishing, water skiing, and snorkeling—Rob found his calling in the world beneath the waves. Since 1998, he has guided divers through the transformative experience of scuba diving, focusing not just on the skills but on the healing potential of the underwater environment.
His passion for diving grew out of a SCUBA program while stationed in New Jersey exploring WWII Shipwrecks, now a NAUI and SEI instructor who values flexibility in teaching. Rob holds certifications across multiple organizations including NAUI, SEI, PADI, NASDS, IANTD, and SSI. His philosophy is clear: the value of a dive certification lies not in the agency’s name, but in the instructor’s ability to tailor learning to the diver’s needs.
Rob’s commitment extends beyond diving. As the founder and Director of Neptune Warrior, a 501C3 organization, he has crafted a supportive community for veterans and first responders struggling with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. His work was recognized when he was named a NAUI Top 25 Contributor in 2017 and 2018 for his significant contributions to the veteran community and the expansion of a robust dive community in Idaho.
His academic credentials, including a Master of Organizational Behavior and postgraduate work in Survival Psychology, underpin his approach to coaching and trauma-informed care. Rob is also a Certified Trauma Specialist and Life Coach, integrating techniques from yoga, mindfulness, and tactical training into his scuba programs. This unique blend helps participants find both adventure and emotional solace in diving.
Rob’s presentations at scuba industry shows and medical conferences further highlight his expertise in merging psychological resilience with physical activity. Through his podcast “One Dive at a Time” and his roles as a guest speaker, Rob continues to inspire and educate on the transformative power of diving, making profound impacts on individuals’ lives by addressing their adventure goals and emotional healing.
The Neptune Warrior 