In this episode of Inflow, hosts Joe Arlotto and Dr. Jeff Keaffaber welcome Tori Sipos, the Facilities & Maintenance Manager at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Tori shares her journey through the industry, moving from hands-on technician roles at the Georgia Aquarium to leading the broader facilities team at a premier zoo and garden.
We explore the transition from "turning wrenches" on life support systems to managing the high-level logistics of an entire facility's infrastructure. Tori provides a unique look at the day-to-day responsibilities of a manager, from budgeting and administrative planning to ensuring the mechanical integrity of systems that support both animals and guests.
Key topics discussed in this episode:
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The Path to Management: Tori's progression from an entry-level technician at the Georgia Aquarium to a leadership role at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.
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Life at the Zoo: The unique challenges of overseeing facilities and maintenance in a zoo environment and the importance of a dedicated, specialized team.
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The Evolution of the Role: Shifting focus from daily LSS maintenance to long-term project planning, facility coordination, and departmental leadership.
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Building a Team Culture: The importance of mentorship, open communication, and fostering a "team-first" mentality in a high-stakes environment.
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Advice for Aspiring Operators: Why "putting in the work" and being a reliable team player are the best ways to advance in the aquatic life support and facilities world.
Whether you are a technician looking to move into management or simply fascinated by the infrastructure required to run a world-class zoo and aquarium, Tori Sipos offers invaluable insights into the "human" side of facilities engineering.
(2:38) - Tori's Career Path
(4:02) - Dive Ops and Exhibit Work
(6:49) - Penguin System Breakdown
(8:25) - Otter System and Maintenance
(10:40) - Water Quality Challenges
(11:34) - Grizzly Pool and Glass Media
(16:09) - Sea Lion System Overview
(17:16) - RMF Perlite Filter Explained
(22:36) - Maintenance and Cost Tradeoffs
(25:25) - Sea Lion Clarity Wins
(28:29) - Saltwater Wetlands Design
(33:38) - After Hours Monitoring
(41:17) - Advice and Wrap Up
Learn more about our sponsors:
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Dryden Aqua
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Integrated Aqua Systems
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Visit them at inflowlsspodcast.com/sponsors.