Some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site.
How this Disney Engineer Accomplished a Lifelong Dream
A childhood visit to Walt Disney World, sparked by the swirling magic of the Mad Tea Party, ignited a lifelong dream for Stephanie Petty. At just five years old, she wondered, “How does this ride work? Who created this?” Little did she know, those questions would set her on a path to becoming a Disney engineer.
Stephanie’s fascination with Disney’s attractions began during a family trip, where she marveled at the magic and wondered about the behind-the-scenes work that brought them to life. Her grandfather, an engineer, explained the role of cast members in designing, building, and maintaining these iconic rides. “I thought it was so cool that there were people whose whole job was to make rides for other people to go on and make them happy,” Stephanie recalled. “That trip is what made me want to become a Disney engineer.”
Related – Disney Cast Members Say Bug Bye to “It’s a Bugs Life”
Her journey began in 2009 with the Disney College Program. After a period of focusing on family, she returned to her studies, earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2020. “All the years, the hard work, the late nights studying, waking up early for my children… it was tough, but the one goal that fueled me through it all was getting back to Disney and becoming an engineer,” Stephanie said. “It’s all I ever wanted.”
In 2024, Stephanie’s dream became a reality when she was hired as a Disney engineer. “For me, becoming a Disney engineer was the equivalent of how some people feel about getting into the NFL,” she shared. “There were some days that it felt like a long shot, but I knew it was going to work out.”
Stephanie’s current focus is on Disney’s free modes of transportation, including the Skyliner, monorails, and watercraft. “My kids think it’s so cool that I work with the monorails and Disney Skyliner,” she said. “I remember riding the monorails when I was a kid, and my daughter’s favorite ride when she was little was the parking lot trams. It is surreal to me that now I get to work on those and help make magic for other guests.”
Beyond fulfilling her personal dream, Stephanie is inspiring the next generation. Her children are fascinated by her work, with her son aspiring to become an engineer himself. “I’m thankful every day that I get to live out my dream and show my kids that anything is possible,” she said. “I want them to know that there are few things that can stop you if you put your mind to it.”
Stephanie’s story serves as a powerful example for aspiring engineers, especially young girls, demonstrating that dreams can indeed become reality. “It makes me so happy to know that there are other little girls out there who want to be a Disney engineer,” she said. “It’s unbelievable that I’ve accomplished that after all these years and can be a source of inspiration for children and other women in STEM.”
Get all the best Disney News
and more, straight to your inbox!
We don't spam. Read our privacy policy for more info.
For the BEST in Disney, Universal, Dollywood, and SeaWorld Theme Park News, Entertainment, Merchandise & More follow us on, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube. Don't forget to check out the Chip and Company Radio Network too!
Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.
Click Here for your FREE No Obligation Quote.
