Disney VoluntEARS Inspire Future Storytellers at Otronicon

Originally published at Disney Parks News

For over a decade, Walt Disney World cast members have been inspiring our STEM storytellers of the future at Otronicon. An event aimed at shining a spotlight on industry achievements and future career opportunities in fields related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

This event brings many children, families, and technology enthusiasts across Central Florida to the Orlando Science Center each year. More than 90 Disney VoluntEARS hosted six innovative exhibits at this year’s multi-day event. Highlighting everything from motion tracking magic to innovative Environmentality efforts and more. My personal favorite? The 3-D Printed Show Coaster! Showcasing an important piece of the design and engineering process. While also highlighting the evolution of coaster technology over time – how awesome is that?

Here’s a quick look at some of the other fun:

“I participated in STEM outreach programs throughout high school and college. And it was a natural extension to get involved in Otronicon once I joined Disney,” Systems Engineer, Gregory said. “The fact that we go to this event at the Science Center and connect so directly with the local community is amazing to see – it can fuel a whole passion for a career in the field for someone.”

Otronicon isn’t the only STEM-focused event our VoluntEARS get involved with. In fact, our cast members with a background in these fields are currently meeting with students participating in ELEVATE Orlando – a youth mentoring program. To help them learn about exciting career paths in the STEM industry at Disney and beyond. ELEVATE Orlando recently received a $500,000 grant donation from Disney as part of the 50th Anniversary celebration. And it means the world to continue to invest in these students – after all, they are our storytellers of the future!

“It makes me so happy to see our cast combine their passion for their craft. With their desire to give back to the community,” Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Walt Disney World Resort, said. “I think that’s what makes working at Disney so special. We’re able to develop our leaders of tomorrow in the Central Florida community and beyond.”