National AAZK Conference 2025

The Phoenix Chapter of AAZK was the proud host of the 50th Annual AAZK National Conference in Phoenix, AZ. After more then 4 years of planning, our chapter was able to welcome over 200 animal care professionals to Phoenix to enjoy a week of professional development, networking, and fun! Our conference committe worked tirelessly to ensure that attendees experienced an amazing conference program, with presentations on conservation, animal training, enrichment and more! The week was full of surprises, including a carnival auction!

The week kicked off with an evening at OdySea Aquarium, followed by two full days of programming including the world premiere of the the documentary My Grandfather: The Zookeeper, which follows the story of AAZK’s origins and evolution of the profession. Mid-week, we spent an AMAZING day at the Phoenix Zoo, where delegates received an inside-look at the facility and interactions with keeper staff and animals.

We ended the week with an Eras themed Banquet, celebrating the eras of AAZK National Conferences!