Peter Weishar, director of the themed experience program, spoke with InPark Magazine for the publication’s guide to Orlando’s themed entertainment academic programs. Weishar contributed to the roundtable and engaged his colleagues from several Orlando-area institutions to share details of their programs.
“We are all passionate about the industry and training the next generation of themed experience designers and managers to benefit its future,” says Weishar. “We collaborate with one another, from guest speaking in each other’s classes to sharing books and curriculum concepts.”
As part of the roundtable, Weishar shared his background, information about the Themed Experience MFA and M.S. programs, the advantages of being located in Central Florida, and the future of graduates in the industry.
“We have seen an impressive rebound in the themed entertainment industry and increased demand for our graduates,” says Weishar. “Since our students are working on the creative side, many are working on future projects, but some are painting scenery, making props, and working on current installations. With Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) moving to Lake Nona, there will be an even greater demand for creative talent in the next few years and we are expanding our programs to accommodate that need.”