Ep 42 - Keeping the Flow: Tori Sipos on the Critical Importance of LSS Reliability

In this episode of Inflow, hosts Joe Arlotto and Dr. Jeff Keaffaber welcome Tori Sipos, the Facilities & Maintenance Manager at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Tori shares her journey through the industry, moving from hands-on technician roles at the Georgia Aquarium to leading the broader facilities team at a premier zoo and garden. We explore the transition from "turning wrenches" on life support systems to managing the high-level logistics of an entire facility's infrastructure. Tori provides a unique look at the day-to-day responsibilities of a manager, from budgeting and administrative planning to ensuring the mechanical integrity of systems that support both animals and guests. Key topics discussed in this episode: The Path to Management: Tori's progression from an entry-level technician at the Georgia Aquarium to a leadership role at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Life at the Zoo: The unique challenges of overseeing facilities and maintenance in a zoo environment and the importance of a dedicated, specialized team. The Evolution of the Role: Shifting focus from daily LSS maintenance to long-term project planning, facility coordination, and departmental leadership. Building a Team Culture: The importance of mentorship, open communication, and fostering a "team-first" mentality in a high-stakes environment. Advice for Aspiring Operators: Why "putting in the work" and being a reliable team player are the best ways to advance in the aquatic life support and facilities world. Whether you are a technician looking to move into management or simply fascinated by the infrastructure required to run a world-class zoo and aquarium, Tori Sipos offers invaluable insights into the "human" side of facilities engineering. (2:38) - Tori's Career Path (4:02) - Dive Ops and Exhibit Work (6:49) - Penguin System Breakdown (8:25) - Otter System and Maintenance (10:40) - Water Quality Challenges (11:34) - Grizzly Pool and Glass Media (16:09) - Sea Lion System Overview (17:16) - RMF Perlite Filter Explained (22:36) - Maintenance and Cost Tradeoffs (25:25) - Sea Lion Clarity Wins (28:29) - Saltwater Wetlands Design (33:38) - After Hours Monitoring (41:17) - Advice and Wrap Up Learn more about our sponsors: Dryden Aqua Integrated Aqua Systems Visit them at  inflowlsspodcast.com/sponsors.