Hunter Wortmann in a wetsuit standing on a stage at SeaWorld San Diego's Orca Encounter Presentation, with a large orca whale jumping out of the water in front of her.

When You See Through the Eyes of a Whale, Conservation becomes instinct

Killer whale trainer to MBA executive

Hi, I’m Hunter — a marine scientist, former killer whale trainer, and passionate advocate for the ocean.

For the past few years, I’ve worked at SeaWorld San Diego as a Senior Behavior Specialist, training and caring for killer whales, dolphins, pilot whales, otters, and sloths. I lead VIP guest programs, bilingual presentations, and live shows for audiences of over 5,000 people, sharing the magic of marine life while inspiring others to care for our planet.

I’ve also interned with the U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program, gaining hands-on experience with mine hunting dolphins and enemy swimmer-seeking sea lions, and deepening my understanding of animal behavior and training psychology.

I hold a B.S. in Marine Science with a minor in Entrepreneurship from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and a Digital Marketing Certificate from the Kellogg School of Management. I’m also a certified PADI Divemaster, freediver, videographer, and fluent Spanish speaker.

Now based on the Gold Coast of Australia, I’m pursuing my MBA at Bond University, where I’m expanding my expertise in business strategy, leadership, and sustainable growth. My goal is to combine my background in marine science and marketing with a strong business foundation to create meaningful impact in conservation and communication.

Whether underwater, on stage, or behind a camera, I’m driven by one goal: to connect people with the ocean and its incredible inhabitants through storytelling, science, and purpose-driven communication.

Learn more
Hunter Wortmann at SeaWorld San Diego with killer whale, Keet on stage.
Hunter Wortmann in SeaWorld San Diego dolphin show lying on the edge of a pool, reaching out to dolphin, Sandy in the water.
Instagram

Contact me.