Associate Director of Marine Mammal Care and Conservation Mark Gonka has worked with marine mammals for over 25 years. Through caring for bottlenose dolphins and pinnipeds at Dolphin Bay, he has extensive experience in animal training, transports, observational research, staff development, and dive operations. He is passionate about connecting guests with the amazing animals he has worked with for decades.

Gonka began his career at Brookfield Zoo Chicago in 1998, starting as an animal care specialist in Seven Seas. After over 15 years of supervising, he stepped into his current role. He also oversees the Zoo’s Life Support systems.

Gonka has a Bachelor of Science in biology from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a Masters of Science in neurobiology from DePaul University. He is also the Animal Training and Advisory Committee chair and Finance co-chair for the International Marine Animal Trainers’ Association (IMATA).