Kathryn Woodcock, PhD CCPE ICAE PEng
Professor
It’s literally the last minute before the TSSA Amusement Ride Safety Training Forum for this year. I’m delighted to contribute content for this NAARSO-accredited safety education event right at home in Ontario, with on-site sessions at Canada’s Wonderland. (Yes, the forecast low is -3C that day.)
This month, I had the magical opportunity to visit Universal Epic Universe, opening for guests in May. No photos were permitted, except for official photographers, so enjoy me casting an unknown spell using my Wand 2.0 in front of the Wizarding World: Ministry of Magic portal.
Do not even try to ask me my “favourite” land – they are all stunningly immersive! Please visit the official websites to see preview videos and photos.
Excited to be back to IAAPA again, and delighted to join another speaker panel. Looking forward to inaugural women’s lunch and the academic symposium on Friday, among many other plans.
My first conference in over a year and a half has successfully concluded! IAAPA met in Barcelona for the first conference since November 2019, after converting all 2020 and summer 2021 to virtual events. It was wonderful to see three-dimensional, live people (!) discussing design, management and recovery, and accessibility topics, among others.
Continue reading “3D People!”
One of the best benefits in the themed entertainment industry is the professional development opportunities. The highlight of the summer was a behind-the-scenes event with the Themed Entertainment Association hosted by Universal Creative at the new VelociCoaster in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, at Universal Orlando Resort.
The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) hosts a series of valuable international conferences and expos. The IAAPA Asian Attractions Expo 2016 was held in Shanghai at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC) in mid-June, including a reception on the evening of opening day of Disneyland Shanghai, and a day visit to the park on Day 2.
Continue reading “Disneyland Shanghai”
During the IAAPA Europe, Middle East and Africa Spring Forum at Gardaland Park in Peschiera del Garda, Italy, THRILL Lab Director Dr. Kathryn Woodcock was honoured with a Career Special Award for Professional Merit. This award recognized her leadership in the attractions industry project promoting expanded accessibility and risk-informed rider eligibility for rides.
Continue reading “Parksmania recognizes ride accessibility initiative”
Meetings at the IAAPA Asian Attractions Expo allowed time for a visit to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, including the terrific new attraction “Mystic Manor”.