Director of Engineering Technology and Analysis, a segment within Disney Parks, Experiences and Products’ Global Engineering and Technology department. Michael leads a multidiscipline team which develops detailed mathematical and physics models for transportation, ride and animatronic systems, custom software and network applications, and robotics. The responsibilities for this team also include the development of robotics, optimization algorithms, servo controllers, interactive/immersive experiences, data analytics, and material process solutions. Michael’s rich and diverse background includes designs of numerous attractions at various Disney theme parks including: Test Track® Attraction; Mission: SPACE® Attraction; Toy Story Mania!® Attraction and the Expedition Everest® Attraction. Michael also designed all the velocity profiles at the worldwide locations of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™.
Prior to joining the Disney team, Michael developed precision guidance algorithms and aerospace sensor simulations for Texas Instruments. Michael has received numerous awards including the Texas Instruments Quality Award, Disney’s Partners in Excellence Lifetime Achievement Award, Walt Disney Imagineering Innovation awards, election into the National Center for Simulation Hall of Fame, and is a holder of multiple patents. He is also a professional musician and music director at Peace United Methodist Church along with being a freelance accompanist and orchestral pianist.
Michael earned his BSEE from Ohio Northern University and a MSEE from the University of Texas Arlington. Further studies included a preparatory scholarship at the Cleveland Institute of Music in classical piano performance. Michael also studied both classical and jazz piano at the University of North Texas.