We recently hosted our 2nd Teen Career Conference on Sunday, January 22nd, which happened to be another huge success! We had over 200 participants register for the event which was great for only our 2nd year.
A carnivore keeper training our male African lion
It turns out that teens all over the Houston area are getting a jump start on their future. Along with Houston Zoo speakers from various departments (Carnivore staff, Vet Staff, Primate Staff, Conservation staff, etc.) we had exhibitors from all over Texas! Some of these exhibitors included University of Houston, University of Texas, Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge, Texas A & M and the Art Institute. The wide array of speakers and exhibitors allowed teens to really focus on their interests, and ask questions to the people who could offer the most help! We also hosted several resume workshops, and an introduction to Zoo Crew by the program coordinator, Patrick Cadriel.
While most teens who visit the Houston Zoo for the conference come here to explore animal-related careers, it is always fascinating to me to explore the variety of careers offered at a zoo or aquarium that don’t necessarily have direct contact with animals everyday.
Education staff presenting our assembly program, "VERSUS: A Wild Challenge!"
Like what? Well, what about education? There are teachers at the Zoo (just like me!) and I even get to handle a variety of animals in programs (like porcupines, macaws, alligators and chinchillas!). Or, maybe you really like to garden-we have an entire horticulture team here that takes care of all of the plants. Maybe it’s art that you’re interested in….well, we have a staff photographer and graphic designers that work here as well.
The possibilities really are endless, and whether you work directly with animals every day or not, if you’re working at a Zoo, you are making an impact on wild animals. So, if you missed our last teen event, look out for our next conference in January!
