Open and Limited Topical Workshops
Open Topical Workshops are available to all conference attendees, no prior attendance reservation is required. Please note, that Open Topical Workshops do run concurrently with other programming, including all Professional Certificate Courses and some Limited Topical Workshops.
Limited Topical Workshops each have a maximum capacity of 60 delegates. If registering for a 2-Part Limited Topical Workshop, you must register for both sections of the workshop. This 2-part workshop would be considered your maximum allowed.
PCC Unplugged Workshops are Open Topical Workshops presented in the main ballroom as an opportunity for all delegates to participate in a snapshot of the content that is presented in each of the 12-hour Professional Certificate Courses.
The individual abstracts for each workshop for the 2025 AAZK National Conference are listed below.
Open Topical Workshops
PCC Unplugged Workshop - Conservation: A Keeper’s Perspective
Monday, October 6th , Palm ABDE, 1:00-3:00pm Kyle Waites, Phoenix Zoo
The role zoos and aquariums play in global conservation initiatives has grown exponentially over the past several decades. As such, zookeepers have become an increasingly important component of successful conservation projects. Through this unplugged workshop, participants will be given an overview of the knowledge, tools and resources necessary to pursue opportunities for hands-on experience with organizations actively working with imperiled species in their home ranges. We will examine the “bigger picture”; the importance of why zoo professionals should get involved with conservation and how zoo-based skills can be an asset in the field. The course will cover how to get the process started, how to work with your organization to facilitate your goals and securing funding to get you there. The impact of the experiences these opportunities create for you, your guests, your organization and the zoo community as a whole will be discussed. Additionally, the workshop will examine methods on how to “think like a researcher” while developing zoo-based skills that can positively contribute to the wider knowledge base of the scientific community.
Feeling the Burn? - An I/O Approach to Burnout and Employee Wellbeing in Animal-Care Passion Professions
Monday, October 6th , Palm ABDE, 3:30-5:30pm Colleen Nissen, Audubon Nature Institute-Audubon Zoo
Caring professions, like zoo keeping, are built on a foundation of passion and dedication. However, the same qualities that drive success in these roles often render professionals uniquely vulnerable to burnout. This workshop bridges Industrial-Organizational (I/O) psychology and the lived experiences of animal care professionals, exploring the dual roles of organizational culture and personal resiliency in addressing burnout and fostering well-being. By identifying key drivers of burnout and examining how workplace structures and individual strategies can influence stress, attendees will gain a comprehensive toolkit for sustaining health and motivation in high-demand roles. Participants will engage with research-backed strategies, case studies, and practical tools designed to promote resilience and mitigate personal psychological strain. Topics such as mindfulness, creativity and self-care practices will empower individuals to take proactive steps toward their own well-being. Concurrently, the session highlights organizational interventions—such as fostering inclusive, supportive cultures that drive high psychological safety— can amplify these efforts, creating an environment where professionals and teams thrive. Real-world examples from animal care settings will demonstrate how personal and organizational efforts can intersect to drive improvements in morale, innovation, and productivity. Animal care professionals inherently understand the power of positive reinforcement and trust in shaping behavior—principles that apply not only to their work with animals but also to themselves and their colleagues. This session equips participants with actionable insights to build resilient individuals and supportive workplace cultures, ensuring their passion for care remains sustainable and impactful.
PCC Unplugged Workshop - Ectotherms of Arizona
Tuesday, October 7th , Palm ABDE, 1:00-3:00pm Bradley Lawrence, Phoenix Zoo
Arizona is home to a vast diversity of geography, climate and habitats. Deep canyons from elevations below sea level, to mountains more than 12,000 feet above. High deserts, low deserts, and pine forests. This diversity is the driving force behind the unique ecosystems and wildlife that call Arizona home. Over this workshop we will investigate the geography, climate and habitats of Arizona and the incredible reptiles and amphibians that live here, as well as how they are able to survive. We will also cover the husbandry requirements and challenges inherent to life in Phoenix, one of the hottest and driest places on the planet.
The Art of Training Animals
Tuesday, October 7th , Palm ABDE, 3:30-5:30pm Steve Martin, Natural Encounters
With no prior knowledge of a specific sport, a person attending their first game might assume that the high school teams they’re watching are the epitome of the sport. They’re unaware that there are college and professional levels where the game is played at an even higher level of artistic expression. Similarly, without a common understanding of the science and application of animal training practices, zoo directors, supervisors, and even veterinarians may believe that animal training at their facility is the best it can be. Even many animal trainers in zoological facilities are unaware of their level of competency compared to others in the field. This presentation will explore the traits and behaviors of artistic or expert animal trainers. Topics covered include the use of control as a primary reinforcer, the misuse of timeouts, two-way communication, building trusting relationships with animals and staff members, giving animals a voice and a vote in how we interact with them, problem-solving, and training for welfare, medical, husbandry, and conservation goals. This presentation is designed for all levels of animal training practitioners who want to learn the most up-to-date and artistic application of scientific behavior change principles.
PCC Unplugged Workshop - Ambassador Animal Academy: Building a Successful Program
Thursday, October 9th , Palm ABDE, 1:00-3:00pm Emily Smith & Kim Richards, Phoenix Zoo
This workshop will review and discuss what is needed to operate an efficient and effective Ambassador program, ideas for developing consistent animal handling practices, effective staff training and communication, and basic behavioral training for animals within the collection, with the goal of developing engaging shows and presentations to reach zoo guests. We will examine how the Phoenix Zoo ambassador animals are utilized for programming. Then we will explore the importance and process of developing animal handling protocols and training staff and volunteers with consistency. Next, the workshop will consider training techniques for ambassador animals presented in shows and programs to large audiences. We will discuss how the Phoenix Zoo develops engaging shows and presentations. As well as reviewing the importance of communication amongst staff, volunteers and guests and the variety of methods in which this can be accomplished.
Safeguarding Species and Self: A Zoo Keeper’s Guide to Disaster Preparedness and Response
Thursday, October 9th , Palm ABDE, 3:30-5:30pm Cari Wittenborn, ZDR3,
ZDR3 plays a vital role in fighting extinction by supporting zoological facilities housing genetically significant nondomestic species during crises. Through disaster preparedness and recovery efforts, ZDR3 aids facilities in protecting critical individuals and populations. This workshop focuses on maintaining animal welfare during disasters, and strategies to mitigate the potential decline in animal welfare during crises. Participants will explore USDA contingency planning requirements, taxa-specific challenges, and tools for understanding USDA-APHIS form 7093 (Contingency Planning Program). Keepers will also learn to mentally prepare for compromised welfare and use practical tools, such as well-prepared go-bags, to improve outcomes. An interactive tabletop exercise simulating a compounding disaster forms the workshop’s core. Keepers will work through worst-case scenarios, identifying vulnerabilities, adapting plans, and making quick, effective decisions to prioritize animal welfare and safety. Attendees can ask questions and participate in polls throughout, ensuring engagement and comfort. Anonymity options will foster a supportive, safe space for sharing thoughts and ideas. The session concludes with a discussion on how keeper safety and well-being are essential for maintaining animal welfare, emphasizing that healthy psyches and supported staff are crucial. Topics will include physical and mental health strategies for keepers, stress management techniques, and fostering a culture of mutual support during crises. By empowering keepers with practical skills and resilience strategies, this workshop demonstrates how disaster preparedness directly contributes to the survival of endangered species, helping institutions rise above extinction.
Limited Topical Workshops
Stronger Together: Using Resources and Strategies to Create Mutually Beneficial Partnerships Between AAZK Chapters and Host Institutions
Monday, October 6th , San Pedro, 1:00-3:00pm AAZK Resource Committee, AAZK Communication Committee, AAZK Diversity Committee, Scott Soldat-Valenzuela, AAZK Executive Director
For AAZK Chapter Leaders, promoting AAZK isn’t always an easy task. AAZK is a complex, multifaceted organization, and effectively explaining everything that AAZK offers to its members and chapter host institutions can be difficult. Building and maintaining strong partnerships between AAZK Chapters, members, and host institutions can present a variety of challenges. Knowledge of resources that are available to chapter leaders and strategies for effectively working with host institutions is key to establishing mutually beneficial relationships and allowing all involved to rise above adversity and accomplish their goals. This workshop will offer a deep dive on resources available to AAZK members, going over what is available and where to find it. With the context of AAZK’s recent rebranding effort, it will also showcase ways to effectively showcase what AAZK does and the benefits it concurs. The workshop will also examine ways to effectively partner with host institutions, utilizing case studies and examples from successful partnerships and also examining common problems and potential solutions. Participants will also have an opportunity to bring forth their own successes and/or challenges in partnering with host institutions through interactive small-group sessions, activities, and Q&A. The best partnerships aren’t dependent on a mere common goal but on a shared path of equality, desire, and no small amount of passion. - Sarah MacLean, American Author
Saving Species Safely! Safety for Field Conservation and Travel
Monday, October 6th, San Pedro, 3:30-5:30pm Kathryn Juliano, Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute & AAZK Safety Committee
Working with international conservation organizations, connecting with peers in foreign countries, and working in wild places in their local areas are just a few examples of the ways that keepers support efforts to rise above extinction. All conservation efforts possess unique risks so safety must be taken into consideration. This workshop will equip keepers with the knowledge to identify potential hazards and with tools and resources to safely plan and participate in domestic and international field conservation. The first half of the workshop will be a panel presentation in which presenters will speak from their own experiences on travelling abroad and working in the field. Topics will include visas, vaccines, medications, planning transportation and accommodations, risk awareness of local flora, fauna, and weather, and general awareness and emergency tips. The second half of the workshop will have breakout sessions in which presenters will speak on the safety considerations for particular projects to increase awareness for delegates wishing to learn more about specific opportunities. At the end of the workshop, participants will be better equipped to plan or take an international or domestic trip to complete field conservation. They will be able to identify potential hazards and know ways to make their trip safer. They will also have contacts of other keepers that have traveled for field conservation.
One Man’s Trash is Another Man’s Treasure: Developing Enrichment out of Discarded Materials- Parts 1 and 2
Tuesday, October 7th , San Pedro, 1:00-3:00pm & 3:30-5:30 Josiah House, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Enrichment is a constantly evolving component of daily zookeeping. New standards push for enrichment to elicit greater natural behavior, engage guest, and promote a natural activity budget. Through an often-unsupported environment of low budgets, lack of time, and limited educational opportunities, keepers must rise above to advance the enrichment we offer. This workshop centers on creating enrichment for a variety of taxa through lecture, discussion of tool usage and assembly of low cost, discarded or easily accessible materials. The lecture aims to inspire creativity and empower success when creating enrichment. We will discuss topics of sourcing materials, safe tool usage, design, approval, and implementation. These techniques have led to five years worth of award-winning enrichment design and usage. Lecture will include the importance that natural history plays in designing novel enrichment. The research gathered from a 2024 Bowling for Rhinos resource grant funded project “Enhancing Rhino Welfare: Integrating wild rhino behavior into captive rhino enrichment” will further this point. The second half of the workshop will give hands on opportunities for delegates to build five enrichment designs. The class will break into groups and move through dynamic stations leaning how to assemble each item. Sixty items will be created. By incorporating the diverse and engaging activities learned during this workshop, zookeepers can feel empowered to enhance the physical and mental health of the animals they care for. This mindset shift of independence helps move the industry forward with keepers being able to create enrichment tailored to their resources and institutions.
Keeper Crossroads: The intersection of holistic animal care programs
Thursday, October 9th, San Pedro, 8:00-10:00am
Kimberly Leser, Oklahoma City Zoo, Kaitlyn Wiktor, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, & Katie Hall
Animal keepers are the cornerstone of any successful animal husbandry program, yet today they are facing increasingly overwhelming workloads with expanding responsibilities each year. The development and implementation of animal welfare standards have led to a growing need for more data collection, documentation, and additional tasks, creating a seemingly never-ending list of duties. This rising workload can strain time management and, over time, contribute to a decline in keeper wellbeing. At the same time, every keeper remains deeply committed to providing the best possible life and opportunities for the animals in their care, leading to exhaustion, frustration, and burnout. This workshop will focus on how to balance animal care needs with available resources by adopting a multi-perspective, behavior-based husbandry approach. By looking at all aspects of daily care, a holistic strategy can be developed that improves both keeper and animal wellbeing while simultaneously reducing the overall workload. The panel will emphasize how keepers are central to this cohesive, whole-life welfare program, offering practical guidance on integrating training, enrichment, veterinary care, data collection, and technology. By combining tasks and collaborating across departments, these elements can create more time for high-quality animal care while alleviating keeper stress and enhancing job satisfaction.
Bowling for Rhinos 101
Thursday, October 9th , Xavier, 8:00-10:00am Frank Verney & AAZK BFR Program
The Bowling for Rhinos workshop’s main objective is to educate and provide resources for AAZK chapters on hosting a successful BFR event. This workshop focuses on innovative strategies for leveraging the BFR toolkit and explores complementary methods for organizing a successful BFR event. The toolkit provides a structured framework with essential resources, including promotional materials, educational content, and fundraising guides. Effective use of the toolkit involves tailoring its resources to engage the local community, secure sponsorships, and generate lasting interest in conservation efforts. In addition to using the toolkit, the workshop discusses best practices for expanding outreach and enhancing participation. Key strategies include hosting pre-event educational sessions about rhino conservation, creating engaging social media campaigns, and involving local businesses for in-kind support. Engaging storytelling, raffles, themed merchandise, and personalized thank-you notes for participants are also recommended to elevate the event experience. Special emphasis is placed on fostering relationships with volunteers, donors, and media to maximize visibility and impact. Ultimately, the workshop aims to empower participants to creatively organize their BFR events, emphasizing adaptability, community involvement, and effective communication. By sharing case studies of successful past events and lessons learned, attendees will gain actionable insights into creating a memorable and financially successful BFR fundraiser. The collective effort of BFR organizers worldwide ensures vital support for rhino populations and helps raise awareness about critical conservation challenges.
“Driving Change”
Thursday, October 9th , San Pedro, 1:00-3:00pm
Tiffany Love, Copper Aitken-Palmer, Sathya Chinnadurai-Brookfield Zoo & Brittany Rizzo - Wild Ride Transport
AZA’s Species Survival Plans are the core of zoos “Rising Above Extinction.” However, these plans frequently require animals to move between institutions. Good stewardship for optimized animal transport is a shared responsibility, however the logistics of completing animal transfers are complex. While an exact figure is elusive, we can extrapolate from the published breeding recommendations from 2023. Among those recommendations, transport was proposed for 131 different species for 1341 separate moves representing 2030 individuals. The process is complicated with multiple communication points within each zoo. Additional steps can be taken in the planning process before, during, and after a shipment to create a more positive welfare situation for the animals in our care. Ensuring fitness for travel prior to transport, ensuring fitness for purpose at destination, and optimized species-specific welfare during travel are the new benchmarks. Key elements to consider during early transport planning include, 1) understanding the animal’s purpose at destination, 2) ensuring fitness for this purpose prior to planning transfer, 3) understanding unique risks of travel type and ensuring the animal is fit for planned type of travel, and 4) making plans prior to travel that will allow for optimal acclimation for the animal at arrival. By committing to understanding these questions we can provide better welfare for animal transport, which helps promote healthy breeding populations and helps zoos rise above extinction.
Saving the Mexican Wolf: A Keepers Guide to Recovery Species Husbandry
Thursday, October 9th , San Pedro, 3:30-5:30pm Rachel Crosby, the Endangered Wolf Center
Preparing large carnivores within zoological facilities to become successful release candidates can be challenging. Mexican wolves (Canis lupus baileyi) are a critically endangered recovery species that face these challenges. They are managed by AZA’s Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) Mexican Wolf Program and owned by the USFWS. Currently, there is only one reintroduction site in the United States for Mexican wolves, but hopefully in the future, a second or third site will be identified. Success requires cohesive collaboration between many zoological institutions, national and local government agencies, and SAFEs. The US Fish & Wildlife Service has been fostering Mexican wolf pups since 2016. This means that wolves from zoos and conservation centers are actively participating in breeding release candidates. This reiterates why the unique husbandry protocols that have been implemented for this species are so vital to saving these critically endangered canids. The Endangered Wolf Center, along with the SAFE Mexican Wolf Program, is offering a workshop at the 2025 AAZK Conference that will go over vital information that will help keepers raise successful release candidates—giving them the tools that will ultimately help save this species from extinction. Part 1 topics will include: SAFE overview, historic and current population status, coexistence, enrichment, and general biology and behavior. Part 2 topics will include: A breakout session discussing issues in the wild, SAFE population management, coexistence, and keeper husbandry. Then talking about capture and restraint methods used by the Endangered Wolf Center and ending with a mock capture.