Meet Gillian and Cullen Chase: two siblings whose love for Disney began as kids and continues today as Walt Disney World cast members.
The Start of Their Disney Journey
Like many, Gillian and Cullen’s Disney journey began on a family vacation. They often visited Disney World growing up.
“I remember that we were always coming to Walt Disney World. Our family was here usually two to three times a year,” said Gillian, a Scheduling Specialist in Workforce Management. “EPCOT was always our favorite stop. It was the place we would go to the most and the most memorable park for us.”
During one of those early trips to EPCOT, their parents snapped this adorable photo of the sibling duo in the France Pavilion. They recently had the chance to recreate the image, reminiscing on how far they’ve come since those childhood trips.
“We loved the rides, the food and the shows, but the best part about visiting as a family so often was seeing many of the same cast members again,” said Cullen, an Apprentice Electrician in Engineering Services. “It’s cool that I now get to help others enjoy their family vacations like we did.”
Discovering A New Home with Disney
Carrying that special adoration of Disney into their adulthood, both Gillian and Cullen decided to join the Disney College Program. Quickly, they both knew they wanted to stay in Central Florida and pursue a career at Disney beyond their programs.
“I came down first, doing a College Program in Merchandise. It didn’t take long before I knew I wanted to stay,” Cullen explained. “I joined the Watercraft team next, and that’s where I found out about the apprenticeship programs that Disney offers. I thought it was so interesting.”
Gillian followed her brother, and admittedly, had a hunch that she would also want to stay beyond her College Program because of the opportunities Disney offers.
“I knew before I moved down here that I wanted to stay,” she said. “It became evident very quickly that whatever career interests you, Disney will help you get to where you want to go. No matter your role or level, there’s just so many opportunities to grow and people who will help you get to where you want to be.”
That’s exactly how Gillian went from a Food & Beverage cast member on her College Program, to joining her brother on the Watercraft team and then eventually to Workforce Management, where she’s been able to level up her skills and grow a successful career.
Chasing Their Career Dreams at Disney
Looking back at their journeys, both Gillian and Cullen are so proud of how far they’ve come.
“On my team, we’re always doing something different every day, which makes my role so exciting and fulfilling,” Gillian said. “Life has really come full circle for Cullen and I, working at Disney. We’ve always wanted to be here and now we both have our own careers that are very different but both so fun.”
While Gillian is doing work behind the scenes, Cullen can usually be spotted at Magic Kingdom doing maintenance on animatronics and attractions all over the park.
“It’s awesome that I get to say I work on that at Disney,” Cullen said. “Every day, I put 100% in and do my best, and it’s always so rewarding.” Interested in starting a career at Disney like the Chase siblings? Head to DisneyCareers.com to take your first steps into your next great adventure.