TACOMA, WA — September 13, 2026 — Nearly 300 animal care professionals from across the United States and beyond are gathering in Tacoma, Washington, this week for the 51st Annual National Conference of the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK). Hosted by the Point Defiance AAZK Chapter, the five-day conference runs September 13–17 and brings together zoo keepers, aquarists, educators, animal care professionals, conservationists, students and industry partners to share knowledge, strengthen professional connections and advance the field of animal care.
The annual AAZK conference is one of the premier professional gatherings for animal care professionals, providing attendees with opportunities to learn from peers and subject-matter experts, explore new approaches to animal husbandry and welfare, and build relationships with colleagues from across the profession.
This year’s conference features keynote speaker Ken Ramirez, an internationally recognized animal trainer, biologist and behaviorist with more than 50 years of experience in animal care and training. Ramirez has worked extensively with marine mammals, primates and other species and has contributed to the development of animal training practices used in zoological settings.
Conference programming includes professional certificate courses, workshops, paper and poster presentations, networking opportunities and special events. The AAZK Professional Certificate Courses provide 12 hours of specialized instruction taught by subject-matter experts, giving participants the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and earn professional certification.
A highlight of the Tacoma conference is Dual Zoo Day, taking place Wednesday, September 16. Attendees will visit both Northwest Trek Wildlife Park and Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, providing a unique opportunity to experience animal care and conservation programs across two sister facilities in the Pacific Northwest.
“AAZK conferences are about much more than education—they are about community,” said Joe Nappi, President of AAZK. “Bringing nearly 300 animal care professionals together creates an incredible opportunity to share ideas, learn from one another and strengthen the connections that help our profession and the animals in our care.”
The conference also highlights AAZK’s commitment to conservation, professional development and collaboration throughout the animal care community. By bringing professionals together from institutions of all sizes and from across the country, AAZK helps foster the exchange of practical knowledge and ideas that can be applied in animal care facilities every day.
The Point Defiance AAZK Chapter has welcomed attendees to Tacoma with a conference designed to showcase both the profession and the region’s commitment to wildlife, conservation and education.
About the American Association of Zoo Keepers
The American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) is a professional organization dedicated to supporting animal care professionals through education, professional development, networking, resources and conservation programs. AAZK provides a national network for animal care professionals—including keepers, aquarists, veterinarians, educators, curators and students—to connect, learn and advance the profession while supporting wildlife conservation.