Dedicated to the zoological community with a solid history at close to 20 years of personal growth and continued education in the understanding of welfare and behavior of animals and how it relates to guests that visit them in facilities worldwide. Organizational problem-solver that focuses on providing teams with systems that set individuals up for success. Excels in communication and leads with empathy, kindness and a charismatic personality that helps other reach their full potential. Decisive, persistent and flexible in all areas and able to easily adapt to roles and responsibilities. Proven track record at enforcing best practices in fast-paced environments while maintaining a positive attitude that increases team morale. Takes pride in creating high functioning teams who work well together to reach common goals. Over the last 15 years at Natural Encounters, inc. (NEI) has participated in many aspects of the company on a global scale. Key player in the development of large scale projects, creating show content, scripts, and storyline of the Winged Encounters and Feathered Friends in Flight shows produced by NEI at Disney's Animal Kingdom as well as many other shows at other zoological institutions around the country. Collaborates with the leadership team at NEI and communicates with WDW partners to evolve and execute both shows while meeting contractual obligations. Sits on the DACWC welfare committee at Disney's Animal Kingdom, preforms site inspections, attends quarterly meetings and included in special welfare working groups to provide insight into welfare concerns. Responsible for managing a team of over 50 trainers at various locations and a collection of over 250 animals. Key NEI TEC Faculty member creating regular web based and in person content as well as the co-host of the NEI TEC Talk Podcast released weekly with over 230 episodes to date. Executive Committee member for NEI as a key player in companywide decision making, such as finances and budgets, reviewing new contracts, providing input on contract content, and new content development for NEI Global. Past President of IAATE (International Association of Avian Trainers and Educators) and served on the board for 10 years, contributed to position statements that provide the zoological facility with best practices and welfare standards for avians in the zoological field on an international scale. Founding board member of IATCB (International Animal Trainer Certification Board) key player in development and execution of the internationally recognized certification test for animal trainers.