Ari Bailey has been working in the animal field for almost 20 years. She got her start working with a large collection of reptiles, mostly crocodilians, and this is where she found her love for behavior. She sought out a job with Natural Encounters, Inc. in 2009 and has worked alongside many talented trainers during her tenure. She is currently the Director of Staff Development, Training, and Shows for NEI, leading and developing teams that foster an incredible environment for learning and growth while producing free-flight bird shows.
Ari is a seasoned public speaker and performer with experience in live media appearances, professional presentations, teaching engagements, and educational shows that deliver strong conservation messages to audiences of up to 5,000. Ari additionally acts as a consultant with NEI, working with zoological facilities and animal professionals. Certified as a professional bird trainer and professional animal trainer (CPBT-KA, CPAT-KA), she is a key faculty member for NEI TEC, providing online content as a resource to the professional zoological and training community. She is also an instructor for NEI’s Professional Workshops and online courses, and co-host of the NEI TEC Talk Podcast with 280 episodes to date.
In addition to her work at NEI, Ari has been an IAATE member for 15 years, serving on various committees and the Board of Directors, most recently as President of the organization. She is currently the co-chair of the Professional Development Committee. Ari is also an instructor for the Crocodilian Biology and Management Course, responsible for coursework and practical sessions on training and applied behavior.
She strives to be a leader who is always learning and someone others want to follow in pursuit of common goals that move our industry forward.