In 1987, Mike Maxcy began his career as an animal keeper at the Los Angeles Zoo, driven by a lifelong passion for wildlife conservation and a deep interest in birds—especially birds of prey. His dedication and growing expertise soon led him to a central role in the Zoo’s California Condor Conservation Program. Being part of a team working to breed and reintroduce one of the world’s rarest birds back into the wild was not only exhilarating, but it also became a defining chapter in his career.

Over the course of 33 years at the LA Zoo, Mike worked with a wide variety of species, including Asian elephants, African wild dogs, and Grevy’s zebras. His leadership and commitment to avian conservation eventually earned him the role of Curator of Birds, where he oversaw the breeding and management of numerous endangered bird species such as the Bali mynah, wrinkled hornbill, and, of course, the California condor.

In collaboration with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the World Center for Birds of Prey, and many partner zoos and agencies, Mike played a key role in managing the Zoo’s contributions to this groundbreaking conservation initiative.

Now retired, Mike is eager to continue supporting condor recovery efforts through the California Condor Alliance, bringing with him decades of hands-on experience and a steadfast commitment to protecting one of the planet’s most iconic endangered species.

Chandra David is a highly respected conservationist with over 30 years of experience dedicated to the California condor program at the Los Angeles Zoo. Throughout her distinguished career, she also served as the studbook keeper and program coordinator for the Cape vulture under the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), playing a vital role in the coordinated management of this species.

Although recently retired, Chandra remains deeply engaged in global vulture conservation. She continues to share her extensive knowledge at international meetings across Europe, contributing valuable insights to the advancement of vulture protection efforts worldwide.

Each year, she brings her decades of expertise in vulture egg incubation and chick rearing to support the recovery of the Bearded vulture in South Africa, aiding in the development of a foundational population. Driven by a lifelong passion for wildlife and inspired by fellow conservationists, Chandra continues to contribute meaningfully to a range of initiatives, including her ongoing involvement with the California Condor Alliance.

Debbie Sears holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Avian Sciences from UC Davis. A lifelong bird enthusiast, Debbie's passion was sparked during childhood camping trips, including a memorable encounter with 50 bald eagles perched together in Alaska. From caring for her own pet cockatiel to pursuing a career in avian conservation, Debbie's journey has been guided by her deep love for birds.

After graduating, Debbie joined the Los Angeles Zoo, where she was fortunate to be assigned to the California condor program. She quickly became an integral member of the condor team, dedicating herself to the recovery and care of this critically endangered species. Now, 28 years later, Debbie continues to serve on the front lines of condor conservation, mentoring and training the next generation of condor keepers and helping to carry forward the legacy she helped build.

In addition to her work with condors, Debbie has a strong professional interest in island endemic species and looks forward to contributing to their conservation in the future. Debbie is excited to bring her extensive experience and passion for condor conservation to the California Condor Alliance as the organization pursues its mission and future goals.

Marti Jenkins has over 25 years of conservation experience primarily working with the California condor program in both captive breeding facilities and release sites.

Marti started her career with condors at the Los Angeles Zoo where she learned captive breeding and provided assistance and training at multiple condor release sites in California and Baja, Mexico.

She went on to work for The Peregrine Fund for over a decade doing field work, condor releases in the Grand Canyon region and managing their captive propagation program in Idaho. She then joined the Oregon Zoo's condor breeding program to help with their planned captive production expansion. Marti's varied experiences give her program level expertise and a unique perspective on all aspects, from the most basic needs to the top levels of planning and management.

Her background gives her the skills to communicate and collaborate with multiple stake holders including various layers of government, NGOs, private entities and industry.