From passion to profession: Growing a career through continuous learning at Disney
If you’ve ever wondered who takes care of Andy's room and all the classic games in Toy Story Land, let’s start with Zarrail.
As a skilled Computer Ride & Show Technician (CRST), Zarrail and others like him start their workday at 6:30 a.m. to make sure the equipment that powers our favorite attractions runs smoothly and to the highest standards of safety and reliability. This includes computers, audio systems, sensors, video displays, and safety mechanisms at Toy Story Mania!
Originally from Ponce, Puerto Rico, Zarrail takes pride in his 26-year career with Disney, where he has held various roles. He says his success is primarily attributed to the company's continuous support, which has encouraged him to step out of his comfort zone, think creatively, and adapt to unexpected challenges. This career journey has allowed him to transition from a position in housekeeping in his early days at Disney to becoming a maintenance engineer technician.
Zarrail wanted to continue growing in his career, which led him to the Electrical Apprenticeship Program. The apprenticeship is a four-year program where technicians attend school while gaining practical work experience, helping them develop valuable, transferable skills.
"As an apprentice at Disney, I learned to work with different types of equipment that aren't found anywhere else in the world,” he said.
After graduating as an electrician, Zarrail passed a proficiency exam, which allowed him to transition from an Apprentice Electrician to Ride & Show Technician (RST). He’s also trained in areas such as animatronics, networking, audio/video systems, programmable logic controllers, and projectors.”
Zarrail’s advice for others looking to grow their careers at Disney? Embrace the challenges and invest in yourself – this can open doors to new opportunities. “And most importantly, never stop learning and making a difference!” he says.
Do you know anyone interested in exploring a career at Disney? Candidates can visit WaltDisneyWorld.jobs to view all open positions and start their journey.
