Member Spotlight


Amanda Price

Recreation Guest Experience Manager
The Walt Disney Company
Orlando, Florida - USA

Featured in "World Waterpark Magazine," December 2018

WHAT IS YOUR EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE? 

I graduated in May 2017, from the Metropolitan State University of Denver, where I received my B.A. in hospitality, tourism and events. Through college, I worked in the Front Office for Omni Hotels. When I graduated, I received an internship opportunity with The Walt Disney Company as a Recreation Guest Experience Manager. 

WHAT CERTIFICATION OR LICENSING DO YOU HAVE? 
I have the Ellis Deep Water Lifeguard Certification, an Aquatic Rescue Professional license and an Aquatic Facility Operator license. 

WHAT MADE YOU GO INTO THIS FIELD? 
I fell into it by chance. (Lucky me!) I applied for an internship with lodging for The Walt Disney Company. When I received my offer, I found out I would be in recreation. 

WHAT ASPECT OF THE WATERPARK INDUSTRY DO YOU LIKE BEST? 
At a resort in recreation, I like the variety that we offer, which I think goes with the waterpark industry as well. I love seeing the innovations and remodels that are completed to keep our guests happy. 

WHO HAS MOST INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR? 
My parents are the main influences that I have had in my career so far. They have pushed me to do well my entire life and challenge myself to grow and develop into a successful person. Without their help, I would not have had the support to pick up and move my whole life from Colorado to Florida. They have always been my number one supporters and I am grateful for their unconditional love and support. 

WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST CHALLENGE IN YOUR WATERPARK CAREER SO FAR? 
The learning curve has been the greatest challenge. Since I did not have any aquatics experience, learning the big and small aspects inside out has taken some time. I learn something new each day! 

HOW DO YOU KEEP FOCUSED AND MOTIVATED? 
I keep focused and motivated because of the people I work with and the guests we provide unforgettable experiences for every day! I love my peers and I truly enjoy developing the Cast to be their very best. 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A FELLOW YOUNG LEADER WHO IS INTERESTED IN WORKING IN THE WATERPARK INDUSTRY? 
I think that anyone who has the passion can work in the waterpark industry—even if you have no experience! Never stop pushing yourself and find a role model to help you develop. Don’t stop trying to challenge yourself and learn more information. 

WHAT BOOKS OR PUBLICATIONS DO YOU RELY ON MOST FOR INSPIRATION OR MOTIVATION? 
I have not used books or publications for inspiration or motivation as of yet. I do heavily credit my peers for keeping me inspired and motivated at work. When you love what you’re doing, it’s hard not to feel inspired and motivated! 

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB? 
I love working with my Cast and seeing them grow and develop their careers. It is one thing to be a great leader and another to provide opportunity for others to succeed rather than just yourself. 

WHAT GOALS HAVE YOU SET FOR YOURSELF AND WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE IN A FEW YEARS? 
The goals I have set are to always be learning and always feel challenged. It is hard to say what I will be doing in a few years, but I would like to gain experience working at another resort or waterpark. It would be great to see how a waterpark functions vs. the operation of resort aquatics. 

HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED WITH THE WWA? 
The reason I know of the WWA is through Kristie Moses, who serves on the WWA’s Board of Directors and also works for The Walt Disney World Company. She encouraged me to apply for the Chris Stuart Emerging Leaders Scholarship program. I am extremely grateful that I was chosen for the scholarship and can pass along information about how wonderful the WWA is! 

WHAT IS SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT YOU THAT FEW KNOW OR WOULD GUESS? 
I absolutely love dancing! Through high school and college, I danced competitively. My favorite style is jazz!