Adam Jackson, the Lead Aquarist at Cayman Turtle Conservation and Education Centre (CTCEC), recently attended the annual Aquatic Animal Life Support Operators (AALSO) symposium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The event was hosted by the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium and brought together leaders, curators, animal husbandry specialists, life support operators/technicians, and water quality specialists/technicians dedicated to creating and maintaining natural habitats for aquatic life in zoos and aquariums globally.
Funded by the US Government, AALSO provides a platform for industry professionals to collaborate, network, and advance their knowledge through educational courses, lectures, and certification examinations. The organization offers certifications in two categories: Life Support System (LSS) Technician and Water Quality (WQ) Technician, with three levels of certification in each category.
Adam Jackson first attended the AALSO Symposium in 2017, where he successfully passed the Level 1 LSS Technician and Level 1 WQ Technician exams. This experience significantly broadened his perspective and deepened his expertise in aquatic life support systems.
This year, Adam aimed to further his professional development by pursuing the Level 2 LSS Technician certification. He is proud to announce that he has successfully achieved this certification, marking a significant milestone in his career. Adam expressed his excitement about the opportunities and knowledge gained through the symposium, which will enhance his contributions to CTCEC’s mission of promoting environmental conservation and sustainability.
“I am so proud to have been able to represent Cayman Turtle Conservation and Education Centre at the annual AALSO Symposium. Being able to network and collaborate with leaders, specialists, and technicians from around the USA and Europe was an amazing experience. I was introduced to new and innovative technology that has evolved the aquarium and zoo industry.
I am pleased with my success in passing the Level 2 Life Support Operator Certification. This certification has enabled me to have a more in-depth understanding of systems and operations used to maintain our aquatic ecosystems. Having this certification will add benefits to my role here at CTCEC, by helping to enhance the conservation, education, and tourism products we provide.
Animal life support systems have always fascinated me. It is amazing to see how intricate it is to replicate Mother Nature. My passion for the marine environment and its inhabitants has given me the drive to excel in my career. I have been able to fuse my love for the ocean with my occupation—what’s more to love?”
For more information about CTCEC and its initiatives, please visit turtle.ky or contact info@turtle.ky
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