Chuck Tompkins

Chuck Tompkins is currently vice president of animal training at SeaWorld Orlando, having held this position since January 1990. Tompkins initially joined SeaWorld Orlando in February 1978 as an apprentice trainer, progressing through various roles across different locations. He served as a senior trainer at SeaWorld Ohio from 1985, became supervisor the same year, and then transferred to SeaWorld San Diego in 1986. Tompkins returned to SeaWorld Orlando in 1987 as the director of animal training before advancing to his current role.

Throughout his career, Tompkins has gained experience with over 100 different animal species, including killer whales, dolphins, pinnipeds, primates, psittacines, raptors, hoofstock, and canines. He is responsible for overseeing all aspects of animal husbandry, show production, behavioral modification techniques, and enrichment programs for the Animal Training Department. His expertise extends to the physical and behavioral health management of the animals under his care.

Tompkins is a Florida-State-certified and federally-permitted Master Falconer and has received numerous training awards from the International Marine Animal Association. He has significantly contributed to the field through his authorship and coauthorship of 14 peer-reviewed scientific papers on training and behavior. His literary contributions include coauthoring the national best-seller "Whale Done!" along with Thad Lacinak and Ken Blanchard. Additionally, Tompkins serves as the training advisor for Canine Companions for Independence Florida Region and is an executive board member for the Central Florida Blood Bank. His past roles include being a board member of the American Cancer Society.

Tompkins is actively involved in several professional associations such as the International Marine Animal Training Association and the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums. He resides in Windermere, Florida, with his wife, Cathy, and their two sons, Cody and Jared.