Juan Carlos is a marine biologist, marine ecologist, expedition leader, and environmental educator whose work bridges scientific research, ethical wildlife tourism, and experiential field learning. His academic training is grounded in hands-on research and extensive fieldwork, providing a strong foundation for leading educational expeditions in marine and coastal environments. Over the past nine years, Juan Carlos has worked as a marine wildlife guide and expedition leader, leading trips focused on gray and humpback whales, ocean safaris, hiking, scuba diving, birdwatching, and snorkeling with sea lions. He is a certified Divemaster through FMAS/CMAS and has contributed to research projects, including underwater community characterization, coral restoration initiatives, environmental impact assessments, and marine mammal censusing. Across all his work, he strives to make each expedition an opportunity for learning, fostering environmental awareness alongside cultural respect. His approach to wildlife encounters places animal well-being at the forefront, prioritizing safety, respect for natural behavior, and ethical interaction. He is equally committed to honoring the cultural traditions and local communities that shape each landscape and outdoor experience. Juan Carlos has previously led Putney’s Service Costa Rica program, where he especially valued the cultural exchange between students and local communities and the opportunity to support experiential, place-based learning. Fluent in both Spanish and English, he brings a calm, attentive leadership style and a genuine enthusiasm for working with students in the field. Outside of guiding, he is a photography enthusiast and is currently focused on strengthening Nova Expeditions, an ecotourism company he founded to promote ethical, meaningful, and responsible encounters in nature.