These amazing people have some pretty interesting jobs, so we’re bringing you a fun peek into their work world along with some of their personal facets. This series will be ongoing, so if you have anyone you’d like to nominate as a potential Spotlight feature, send us an email at [email protected]. Enjoy!
Spotlight on Jay Walker
Jay has been the executive director of Great Lakes Aquarium for six years. However, he has been with the company for 26 years, first as curator of animal care and next as director of operations. The BBER recently worked with Jay on an economic impact analysis of Great Lakes Aquarium.
What does a typical day look like in your job?
One of the things I appreciate about my job is how the work naturally evolves throughout the year. Each quarter brings new challenges and priorities that move us toward our goals. Right now, much of my time is focused on planning for next year’s programs and projects, everything from educational initiatives and budgets to funding strategies and project development. Soon, we’ll shift into the implementation phase, and the cycle will begin again.
What do you like best about your current job?
My favorite part of my job is working with an incredibly talented team. Their creativity and passion for conservation, animal care, and education shines through daily. I am always inspired by their work, and I love to reflect on our achievements and the steps that we took to get there.
What about your current job do you find most challenging?
The most challenging part of my job is managing competing priorities in a way that allows me to stay fully present and accessible to my team when they need support.
If you could snap your fingers and solve any problem facing our community, what would it be?
Our region has been labeled a climate refuge, and while we may be more resilient than other areas to the drastic changes unfolding around the world, we are not immune. Lake Superior is one of the fastest-warming lakes on the planet, and the effects of this change will have profound ecological and economic consequences. While I don’t have the power to fix things with the snap of a finger, we do have the power to educate and advocate for the protection of this incredible resource.
What is the most recent thing you’ve read (besides email)?
I just finished Revelations: Visions, Prophecy, and Politics in the Book of Revelation by Elaine Pagels. I’ve always been fascinated by religions. If I hadn’t found my way into the world of fish, I might have pursued a degree in religious studies. And, true to brand, I also read The Book of Eels by Patrik Svensson, an amazing exploration of one of the most enigmatic fish species on Earth.
What is something (knowledge or a skill) you would like to learn?
I would love to be able to do a back flip.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received that has helped you in your career?
It’s not just what you know, it’s who you know. I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to build a strong network and meaningful relationships. Reaching out to others with diverse skill sets can be incredibly helpful when facing challenges. Another piece of advice I’d offer is simple but powerful: listen.
Photo: Director Jay Walker leading behind-the-scenes tours at Great Lakes Aquarium, past and present.