Joanna Sokolowski
Orland Park
Summary
Dynamic individual with hands-on experience in the caring for a wide range of animal taxa. Brings strong problem-solving skills and proactive approach to new tasks. Known for adaptability, creativity, and desire to continue learning. Committed to making meaningful contributions and advancing organizational goals.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Penguin/Encounters Keeper
Indianapolis Zoo
Indianapolis, Indiana
05.2023 - 05.2026
- Represented Penguin area on Behavioral Enrichment Committee.
- Acted as Enrichment Project Liaison to assist Collections departments in planning and sourcing materials for enrichment projects.
- Coordinated with multiple departments to facilitate behind-the-scenes tours and encounter programs.
- Trained and supervised seasonal keepers, interns, and volunteers.
- Member of the dive team that maintains aquatic habitats throughout the zoo.
- Trained as a safety second to work in free-contact with American alligators.
Biologist II – Penguins and Seals
Moody Gardens
Galveston, Texas
01.2023 - 04.2023
- Provided daily care, enrichment, and training for a mixed colony of harbor seals and California sea lions.
- Also cared for a breeding colony of king, gentoo, macaroni, chinstrap, and rockhopper penguins, as well as a non-breeding colony of Humboldt penguins.
Trainer / Enrichment Coach
Dogz n’ Harmony
LaGrange, Illinois
09.2017 - 01.2023
- Instructed clients in operant conditioning theory and demonstrated proper application of training techniques.
- Developed training and enrichment plans to suit each dog/owner team, with a focus on constructional methods.
Seasonal Penguin Keeper
Indianapolis Zoo
Indianapolis, Indiana
05.2022 - 10.2022
- Fulfilled all aspects of caring for a colony of king, gentoo, and rockhopper penguins.
- Ran behind-the-scenes tours and Art Adventure encounter programs.
Marine Mammal Husbandry Volunteer
John G. Shedd Aquarium
Chicago, Illinois
07.2006 - 08.2022
- Assisted in the daily operations of the Marine Mammal Department, including cleaning animal habitats and support areas and preparing diets.
Seasonal Keeper – Marine Mammals
Chicago Zoological Society/Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield, Illinois
05.2021 - 12.2021
- Provided daily care for bottlenose dolphins, California sea lions, and gray seals.
- Designed enrichment items for cetaceans and pinnipeds.
- Provided narration, crowd control, and guest engagement during Dolphins in Action presentations.
Mammals & Birds Intern
Georgia Aquarium
Atlanta, Georgia
08.2015 - 01.2016
- Provided daily care for beluga whales, harbor seals, and Asian small-clawed otters, and assisted as needed with the penguin and sea otter teams.
- Created enrichment devices, participated in training sessions, and contributed to daily session records.
- Worked with the animals in protected, semi-protected, and free contact scenarios.
Marine Mammal Husbandry Intern
John G. Shedd Aquarium
Chicago, Illinois
09.2011 - 05.2012
- Contributed to the daily care of cetaceans, California sea lions, sea otters, penguins, and birds of prey.
Education
B.A. - Interdisciplinary Studies, Minor in Biology
Governors State University
Skills
- Positive reinforcement training
- Enrichment design and construction
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Public education
- Organizational skills
- Adaptability and flexibility
Certification
Certified Open Water Diver - Professional Association or Dive Instructors
First Aid / CPR / AED - American Heart Association
Timeline
Penguin/Encounters Keeper
Indianapolis Zoo
05.2023 - 05.2026
Biologist II – Penguins and Seals
Moody Gardens
01.2023 - 04.2023
Seasonal Penguin Keeper
Indianapolis Zoo
05.2022 - 10.2022
Seasonal Keeper – Marine Mammals
Chicago Zoological Society/Brookfield Zoo
05.2021 - 12.2021
Trainer / Enrichment Coach
Dogz n’ Harmony
09.2017 - 01.2023
Mammals & Birds Intern
Georgia Aquarium
08.2015 - 01.2016
Marine Mammal Husbandry Intern
John G. Shedd Aquarium
09.2011 - 05.2012
Marine Mammal Husbandry Volunteer
John G. Shedd Aquarium
07.2006 - 08.2022
B.A. - Interdisciplinary Studies, Minor in Biology
Governors State University
Additional Credentials
- PADI Open Water Diver Certification
- CPR/AED Certified
- IMATA Active Member
- ABMA Member
- Experience with large freshwater aquarium systems
- Experience with geriatric and medically compromised penguins and pinnipeds.
Professional Memberships
International Marine Animal Trainers Association - Active Member
Animal Behavior Management Alliance - Professional Member