Dolphin Trainer: Following a Childhood Dream Beneath the Waves

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April 2026

by Shannon Doyle Bell

Photos courtesy of the Georgia Aquarium and Stephanie Mairiono

For Stephanie Maiorano, the dream began in the stands of a dolphin show. Growing up in Ohio, family trips to the Indianapolis Zoo left a lasting impression. While many children were captivated by dolphins leaping through the water, Stephanie found herself watching the trainers.

“I remember thinking that would be the coolest job ever,” she says. Years later, that childhood fascination became a reality. Today, Stephanie is a dolphin trainer at the Georgia Aquarium, where she has spent nearly eight years working with one of the aquarium’s most beloved marine mammals. But reaching that goal required determination and patience.

Becoming a dolphin trainer is a competitive path that requires both education and hands-on experience. Trainers at the Georgia Aquarium must hold a four-year bachelor’s degree, often in biology, animal science, marine science, or psychology. Strong swimming skills are also essential, with applicants required to pass an intense swim test before they can even interview. Most facilities also require SCUBA certification.

Just as important as academics is experience. Many aspiring dolphin trainers volunteer or complete internships at zoos and aquariums while in college. Stephanie interned at marine facilities in Hawaii and Florida, often working additional jobs during the summer to support herself while gaining experience.

“It’s definitely a passion job,” she says. “You’re not doing it for the money. A lot of people intern or volunteer just because they care so much about working with the animals.” After finishing a season at SeaWorld San Diego, Stephanie began applying for positions across the country. When the Georgia Aquarium called, she was surprised but excited for the opportunity.

Like many trainers, Stephanie started as an apprentice. Early responsibilities included preparing fish diets, cleaning habitats, and supporting more experienced trainers. Over time, she moved into an assistant role and eventually became a full trainer, working directly with dolphins in the water and helping develop new behaviors through positive reinforcement.

“Each dolphin has its own personality and learning style,” she explains. “Part of our job is figuring out how each individual learns best.”

At the Georgia Aquarium, thirteen bottlenose dolphins live in the Dolphin Coast habitat. The group includes seven females and six males, each with unique personalities. Some of the largest males—Kenobi, Pacino, Sydney, and Polka—are responsible for the impressive splashes seen during presentations.

One of Stephanie’s favorites is Salvador, a playful dolphin she describes as having a goofy personality. Training him to swim quickly along the surface while spinning took patience and repetition, but the breakthrough moment made it worthwhile. “When he finally figured it out, he got so excited,” she says. “He gets excited for his friends when they do well too!”

Daily dolphin presentations at the Georgia Aquarium blend impressive behaviors with conservation education. Seasonal shows highlight issues such as coral reef protection and sustainable seafood, while dolphin encounter programs help visitors learn about marine mammals and conservation laws like the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Stephanie hopes those experiences inspire visitors to care for the oceans. “Small actions like reducing plastic use or bringing reusable bags can make a big difference,” she says. For students who dream of working with marine animals, Stephanie encourages persistence. “It’s a competitive field and rejection is normal,” she says. “But if you’re passionate about it, keep going. Before you know it, you might find yourself living the dream you imagined as a kid.