Celebrating Our Own: Military Veterans

Steven Langton

• Director of Zoo Safety and Security
• United States Army Veteran

"Born and raised in Central Ohio, I always wanted to come back to this area after my military service was complete. My time in the military extended into working for the federal government for several years before finally finding a great opportunity to come back to Ohio. Having a son that my wife and I wanted to raise close to family certainly helped!

I was initially hired on as the Security Operations Supervisor at the Zoo in 2018 and promoted to Security Manager shortly thereafter. I did take a brief hiatus from the Zoo in 2021, but I am very happy to have found my way back and into my current role as Director of Safety and Security where I can help shape the direction of this department moving into the future.

My time in the military taught me the value of a strong team. Having the right people in place and taking the time to train and develop the individuals that make up our team is what helps to ensure our success here at the Zoo."

Dave Lemkau

• Zookeeper in the Columbus Zoo's Pachyderm Building
• Illinois Army National Guard, 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team

"When I came to Ohio, I attended the University of Dayton and made many connections here. I served in the Guard to help pay for my education. My career led me to joining the Columbus Zoo's pachyderm keeper team after gaining experience at other zoos. 

I was honorably discharged as a Corporal. Serving in my unit helped me to learn that planning every course of action is essential, but being able to communicate and change direction when needed is even more important!"

Bob Mayes

• Vice President of Technology Services for the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
• United States Air Force Veteran

"I served as an Air Traffic Control Radar Tech during my time in the U.S. Air Force. My concentration was in electronics which eventually led to an interest in computers.  Following my four years in the USAF, my first job was as a Field Engineer, and I repaired computers.  I have been working in the Information Technology world ever since, and that led to my role at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. 

I learned an important lesson that applied to both my military career and my time here at the Zoo: Take care of your team."

Cole Sinden

• Security Ranger at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
• United States Navy Veteran

"I proudly served in the U.S. Navy for 11 years as an MA2 (2nd Class Petty Officer, Master-at-Arms), which handled security and law enforcement across Navy vessels, installations, and bases. Transitioning to the work I do now at the Zoo was very natural.  I've always enjoyed visiting the Zoo as a guest and was thrilled to join the team.  Things just worked out. 

I learned and developed many different skill sets during my time in the military. The skills that stand out to me, however, are communication and teamwork. 

I work with team members from so many different cultures, backgrounds, and generations. We've learned to communicate effectively and succeed because we operate as a team."

Josh Young

• Security Ranger 2 for the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
• United States Marine Veteran

"I retired from the United States Marine Corp in 2014 as a Lance Corporal. My time in the USMC taught me how to adapt to situations as they happen, and that is a helpful skill to have when working in Security at the Zoo. 

My experience in the military lends well to my profession at the Columbus Zoo.  While I began as a seasonal employee, I realized I really enjoy working here and have been here ever since."