Charlie Jacobsma
Director, Animal Behavior and Training
Education
M.S., Biology, Western Illinois University
P.B.C., Zoo and Aquarium Studies, Western Illinois University
Cert., Secondary Education and Teaching, Western Illinois University
B.S., Biology, Western Illinois University
Expertise
Marine mammals, animal training and care, animal ambassadors
As Shedd’s director of animal behavior and training, Charlie Jacobsma brings together scientific expertise, empathy and creativity in his leadership. He oversees a dedicated team of leaders and marine mammal caretakers in the Abbott Oceanarium and, guided by an animals-first philosophy, provides strategic oversight of Shedd’s current and future animal behavior and training needs.
With more than 15 years of experience working in zoos and aquariums, Jacobsma is deeply committed to building trusting, positive relationships with animals. He also oversees Shedd’s animal engagement program, which allows select animals to go beyond traditional exhibits and connect directly with guests both onsite and throughout the Chicago community.
Beyond his work at Shedd, Jacobsma serves on the Marine Mammal Steering Committee within the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Taxon Advisory Groups. Passionate about inspiring wonder for the natural world and empowering guests of all ages to care about and protect wildlife, he is a certified interpretive guide (CIG) and holds a professional education license in science/biology.