Alexis Cruz
Summary
Dynamic and experienced senior marine mammal trainer with a strong background in animal behavior, welfare, and interactive program development. Passionate about improving animal husbandry practices, successfully trained a wide range of marine mammals and birds, focusing on their cognitive abilities and unique personalities. Committed to lifelong learning, actively pursues opportunities to expand knowledge and skills, while also sharing dedication to animal care with both the public and professional community.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Trainer Marine Mammal Specialist
Fakieh Aquarium
12.2023 - Current
- Maximized operational efficiency in animal behavior and animal welfare assessment by creating streamlined processes, animal records, husbandry schedules and animal interactions.
- Developed animal conditioning skills and techniques and maintained current level of criteria through observation, listening and training.
Marine Mammal Senior Trainer
Dolphin Adventure by Vallarta Adventures
11.2021 - 11.2023
- Provide leadership during training sessions, guiding junior trainers on how to interact with marine mammals safely and effectively. Oversee the progression of animals' training plans and ensure trainers are aligned with long-term behavioral goals.
- Maintaining high standards for safety, animal welfare, and operational efficiency across all marine mammal care programs
Assistant Manager
Atlantis the Palm
03.2019 - 02.2020
- Provide comprehensive care and advanced behavioral training for marine mammals, using positive reinforcement to ensure the animals' mental and physical health.
Marine Mammal Senior Trainer
Adaland Dolphin Park
01.2018 - 03.2019
- Facilitate educational shows and dolphin interaction programs for the public, enhancing guest experience while promoting the importance of marine conservation.
- Supervised the development of enrichment activities designed to encourage natural behaviors.
Marine Mammal Specialist
Wildlife in Focus Consultancy
11.2016 - 12.2017
- Maintained overall safe work environment with employee training programs and safety procedures with dolphins and sea lions (Artocephalinae).
- Conduct educational presentations and guest interactions as well as supervise and mentor trainers, providing guidance on best practices and techniques.
Animal Caretaker
Akumal UMA
08.2015 - 10.2016
- Maintained clean and safe living environments for animals by regularly cleaning enclosures and providing proper bedding materials.
- Monitored animal health to quickly recognize signs of illness and injury, seeking necessary medical attention.
Marine Mammal Specialist
Dolphin Adventure by Vallarta Adventure
12.2010 - 07.2015
- Collaborated with veterinarians, animal caretakers and other animal experts on animal training project and how to improve animal welfare
- development and implementation of interactive and husbandry programs for dolphins and sea lions (Otaria Flavescens, Zalophus Californianus)
Education
Certificate of Technical Studies - Aquatic Recreation
CetMar
08-2011
Skills
- Animal Welfare
- Observation
- Adaptability
- Innovative Training
- Teamwork and Compliance
Certification
- Animal Welfare Professional, San Diego Zoo Academy Collabornation 2023
- Advanced Open Water Scuba Certificate - PADI
- Innovation and Technology Recognition - IMATA 2014
- Behavior of the Year & First Time Presenter Awards - IMATA 2014
Languages
English
Spanish
Russian
Timeline
Senior Trainer Marine Mammal Specialist
Fakieh Aquarium
12.2023 - Current
Marine Mammal Senior Trainer
Dolphin Adventure by Vallarta Adventures
11.2021 - 11.2023
Assistant Manager
Atlantis the Palm
03.2019 - 02.2020
Marine Mammal Senior Trainer
Adaland Dolphin Park
01.2018 - 03.2019
Marine Mammal Specialist
Wildlife in Focus Consultancy
11.2016 - 12.2017
Animal Caretaker
Akumal UMA
08.2015 - 10.2016
Marine Mammal Specialist
Dolphin Adventure by Vallarta Adventure
12.2010 - 07.2015
Certificate of Technical Studies - Aquatic Recreation
CetMar
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