Our digital series, Pride In Our People, features the incredible staff at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium through written first-person narratives and/or podcast interviews.

Today, we are featuring Calvin from the security team!
This is his story…

I was a Pennsylvania State Trooper for 28 years, retiring in 2010 as the Commander of the State Police Western Regional Training Center in Greensburg, PA. I started my career at the Zoo two days after retiring from the State Police. As a young boy, my two desires were to be a police officer and work with animals. I have enjoyed an amazing second career at the Pittsburgh Zoo, working with various department including; Special Events, Animal Diet Kitchen, Catering, Grounds, and my current position in Security.​​

The main responsibility of my position is to supervise the 24 hour security service of the Zoo. Security is to provide a safe, healthy and enjoyable work environment for Zoo employees and staff, guests, and the Zoo’s animal collection. We assist guests with everyday questions such as directions, locating loved ones, injuries, etc. It’s our job to enforce the rules and regulations set forth by the Zoo’s Management Staff. This also includes keeping a vigilant eye on areas including the parking lot for the security of our guests’ private property.

During hours when the Zoo is closed, the security staff must be attentive about keeping unauthorized guests off grounds. We listen, observe, and respond to fire and burglary alerts and are observant to any power or equipment failures, notifying the proper staff and emergency personnel.

Above all, I enjoy helping our guests feel welcome, safe, and secure during their visit to the Zoo.​

Glowing Reviews

We asked Allan, the Vice President of Internal Affairs, and Chelsey, Manager of Visitor Services, about their experiences working with Calvin:

“Calvin has worked at the Zoo in just about every department here. He loves the Zoo and everyone he comes into contact with. With his constant smile and positive attitude, I challenge anyone to have a bad day after they have spoken to Calvin for five minutes. When I had the opportunity to hire someone for the position of Chief of Security, I knew exactly who I wanted to fill the new role. As expected, Calvin has been the perfect fit.”
– Allan

“In my short time at Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, Calvin, head of security, has been one of the most supportive individuals I met. He consistently offers his guidance and expertise. He greets me every time, no matter how long his day was with a giant smile. He truly is one of the most kind, gentle, and fair person I have ever met.”
– Chelsey

Thank you for all you do, Calvin!