As an EMT in Ohio for over 20 years, I know, first-hand, the dedication of first responders…one that lasts for a lifetime, often after their official “retirement”. Emergency Medical Services (EMS), firefighters, law enforcement officers, and 9-1-1 dispatchers alike will tell you that their job is more of a calling.
At the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, we host on-site security and EMS teams to help keep our guests safe and healthy. They drive our mission - “Empowering People. Saving Wildlife.” – by lending their extensive public safety experience and customizing it to the needs of the state’s largest zoo and water park, seven days a week. And, with over 2,400,000 guests visiting the Zoo, Zoombezi Bay, and Safari Golf Club every year, that’s no small feat.
In honor of National Police Week and National EMS Week, both celebrated every year in May, we sat down with two team members who represent the hard-working divisions of Security and EMS at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
Meet Jennifer
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Safety and Security
How long have you worked at the Zoo?
I started here as a seasonal employee in 2012 and began my full-time career here in the following year.
How did you become interested in this profession?
It started at a young age! I enjoy watching old western movies, shows about the military, and law enforcement-themed TV shows and movies. In 1988, I told my grandmother my plans to enter this field. My mother was not too thrilled about it, but my grandmother told me to follow my dreams…she didn’t have that opportunity when she was young. When I graduated high school, I joined the Army, and the rest is history.
What is something you’ve learned by working at the Zoo that you didn’t expect?
This isn’t just a “job”…it’s more. There is no other security job in the world where you get to walk around a zoo, see amazing animals, and watch families make memories.
Tell us about an accomplishment that you’re proud of!
I’m proud of all of my accomplishments! Anything I have set my mind to, I have accomplished. I don’t give up. Here are three, though:
- Joining the Army and surviving boot camp
- Joining the TSA
- Completing my basic Police Officer training
In every role I’ve had in my career, I worked my way into a supervisor or manager’s position. I make it a point to learn everything I can about the role and how I can help other team members in different divisions. I feel it helps me to be a better leader.
What makes the Zoo’s team culture unique?
It’s exactly that: A team. Regardless of what department we work in, we work together to accomplish goals. Everyone is friendly, helpful, and supportive. That is something you don’t see everywhere.
How does your job tie to the Zoo’s mission of “Empowering People. Saving Wildlife.”?
Our team provides safety and security around the Zoo, Zoombezi Bay, and Safari Golf Course. Our rangers provide support to staff and guests as issues arise. Our responsibilities go more in-depth than what you may think we do…We strive to be a part of that great guest experience without losing sight of the security side of things.
What is advice you would give to someone interested in working in your field?
Be passionate about what you do. Find your passion and go after it! Learn as much as you can, step up, and show that you have the heart and the drive to go far.
We have to ask…Favorite animal at the Zoo, and why!
The wolf…to me, they symbolize courage, strength, loyalty, instinct, intelligence, and ingenuity.
Meet Steve
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Emergency Medical Services
How long have you worked at the Zoo?
I believe this is the start of my eighth year here as a seasonal employee.
How did you become interested in this profession?
Since I was very young, I wanted to become a firefighter. When I turned 18, I called the Columbus Division of Fire (CFD) and asked them how I could join the department. They required a civil service test, and, at that time, none were being offered. Later in life at age 24, a friend of mine at a local community college asked if I was still interested in joining CFD. I was! He said they just started their EMS program and that’d be a great licensure to have when applying to the fire department. I took the class and loved it, and the rest is history.
Tell us about an accomplishment that you’re proud of!
Serving the citizens of Columbus for over 30 years as a Firefighter/Paramedic. I’m also proud to serve guests and staff here at the Zoo as an EMT. It’s very rewarding to help people that are in need.
What do you think makes the Zoo’s team culture unique?
There is such a diversity of people and departments that work so well together!
What’s one thing people don’t know about you that they’d be surprised to find out?
I received my SCUBA diving certification in 1974. After working as a Dive Master in the Bahamas for a couple of years, I became a dive instructor and worked my way up to becoming a Public Safety Diver Instructor.
What advice would you give someone interested in working in EMS?
Always treat patients like you would want one of your own family members to be treated in a medical emergency. Always be compassionate.
We have to ask…Favorite animal at the Zoo, and why!
The polar bears…They’re an awesome, beautiful, and powerful animal.
Public safety personnel deserve our gratitude year-round, and, here at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, we are eternally grateful for the service they provide to ensure our guests remain safe and healthy during their visit.
