4 minute read
Who's Who at the Zoo
Will Taylor
IT Administrator
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What does a day in your shoes look like?
The start of my day always involves checking in with the team and making sure our critical systems are operational and ready for opening. We provide support for a broad and diverse technology base, so we are always looking for ways to improve our own abilities as well as keeping apprised of the latest in technology advancements. In an industry that changes by the second, there are always new and improved ways that we can pivot and provide a better Member, guest and staff experience.
Will Taylor
What were your previous jobs/career paths and how did they lead you here?
As a child, I received my first computer in the mid-to late-80s and ever since, I have had a passion for technology. Around the early 2000s, I started my professional career as a graphic and web designer. During this time, I started performing repairs to the company’s desktops and servers in addition to my normal duties. I eventually transitioned to this as a full-time job which earmarked my professional shift to the world of Information Technology. Over the next 19 years, I continued to increase my knowledge set, took every opportunity to learn and develop my ability to support various technologies, and eventually brought that skillset to Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Since then, we have worked diligently over the last 10 years to evolve our technology so that we can support a greater range of opportunities for our Members, guests and Zoo teams.
What is your favorite animal?
Red pandas—our whole family hopes that we will one day feature them here.
What is your favorite exhibit?
Land of the Tiger
When or how did you first develop an interest in animals/the zoo world/ education?
As a teenager, my family spent a lot of time in and on the St. John’s River. Over the years, we participated in many conservation and cleanup efforts focused on the river which has further developed my interest in conservation.
Are you native to Florida? If so, where? If not, where did you grow up?
I was born in Montgomery, Alabama but spent the first seven years of my life in Birmingham, Alabama. We moved down to Jacksonville when I was seven and have been here ever since.
What is your favorite part of your career or what is your most memorable experience at the Zoo?
My family has a great memory with one of our penguins, CJ, during a behind-the-scenes penguin feeding tour. We were in the back area and CJ was very interested in my mom’s sandals as he followed her around. When he lost interest, we had a very cute interaction with my son who was wearing a baseball cap during the tour. CJ went over to investigate him which spooked my son causing him to run behind me. My son and CJ circled around me for a couple minutes trying to get to and away from each other. We all got a good laugh (including my son) and a great memory.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I spend most of my free time with friends and family. Whether it is playing video games with my son, softball practice/games with my daughter or just spending time together, we are always on the lookout for new experiences and things to do.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Over the years we have had a running joke that everyone in my department has seen our elephants in the pool at their exhibit except for me.
