How a Disney UNCF Scholar Grew into a Full-Time Disney Imagineer
Meet Jordan, a former Disney UNCF Scholars Program intern whose journey has led her to making magic in Walt Disney Imagineering. Grab your popcorn and read along to see how she transformed her dreams into reality!
When Jordan was a child, the dream and aspiration to make magic at Disney began to blossom within her. "It's been my dream to work with Imagineering as a mechanical engineer since I was a kid! Growing up, I had the opportunity to visit Walt Disney World ® Resort various times. During those trips, I fell in love with theme parks and the technology behind them," she said. Jordan was fascinated by how Disney used technology to immerse guests into new worlds. She knew early on that her passion was rooted in making magic from a technical perspective.
She says she loves how "Disney uses engineering to engage your senses and create experiences that stick with you long after you've left the park." Jordan carried that passion for engineering and Disney with her into college.
As you can imagine, Jordan knew that the Disney UNCF Scholars Program was her chance to join her dream company. "In the fall of my junior year, I came across the application for the program and freaked out! I applied instantly," she said. After rounds of interviews, she became part of the second cohort of the program and landed an internship with the ride development engineering team!
When Jordan first started with Walt Disney Imagineering as an intern, she was eager to make her impact felt right away. She gained a variety of new skills and brought a fresh perspective to her team, allowing her passion to shine bright through various projects. Jordan not only met expectations but exceeded them. This enthusiasm and work ethic helped her transition to a full-time role as an Associate Show Mechanical Engineer!
In her new role, no two days are the same. "The responsibilities of my role vary greatly, from completing design and analysis on parts and assemblies to supporting production, testing, and installation of animated figures and show action equipment," she says. The work Jordan does significantly contributes to Disney's success as a company. Whether it's bringing beloved Disney characters to life or designing dynamic show action equipment that builds engaging shows and rides, her work ensures that every visit to a Disney park is a memorable one.
Jordan's love of storytelling and immersive experiences inspires her work. "The themed entertainment experiences I enjoyed as a kid have stayed with me over the years, and I am thrilled to be able to bring those same magical experiences to life for a new generation," she said. "It's exciting to witness the transformation from a digital model to something tangible. Although I've yet to experience this fully because I am still new to the team, I am excited for the day I can go into the parks and say, 'Hey, I helped design that' and witness the joy it brings to guests."
Jordan's journey from intern to full-time Disney Imagineer is nothing short of inspiring. It speaks to the power of Disney's early career programs being the building blocks of creating a career with the company. She now can live out her Disney passion through storytelling and technology. This is just the beginning of a magical career here at the most magical place on earth. Congratulations, Jordan!
The Disney UNCF Scholars Program is part of Disney Future Storytellers, our commitment to inspiring the next generation of storytellers and innovators. To learn more about how Disney is inspiring the next generation, visit UNCF.org.