Eric Anderson
President
Quassy Amusement and Waterpark
Middlebury, Connecticut - U.S.A.
Featured in
World Waterpark Magazine, March 2021
WHAT IS YOUR EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE?
I like to say that I went to the school of “hard knocks.” I started working at the park when I was 11 years old. Since then, I have worked in all capacities from arcade attendant to managing complex projects.
WHAT CERTIFICATION OR LICENSING DO YOU HAVE?
I have a Certified Pool Operator license.
WHAT HONORS, AWARDS OR SPECIAL RECOGNITION HAVE YOU ACHIEVED?
The park has been recognized by our local Chamber for our more than 110 years of supporting the community through philanthropy and creating jobs. The park was also honored with the Golden Ticket Turnstile Award in 2015. Our “Wooden Warrior Roller Coaster” has also received a lot of industry recognition.
WHAT MADE YOU GO INTO THIS FIELD?
The field found me and I have never looked back. Through the years, the industry has provided many opportunities to grow.
WHAT ASPECT OF THE WATERPARK INDUSTRY DO YOU LIKE BEST?
Personally, I like the planning, developing and installation of new attractions. It is very satisfying to see a project come to fruition.
WHO HAS MOST INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR CAREER?
Coming from a small family park, I get inspiration from the amazing things small parks have done. Paul Nelson from Waldameer Park, Will Koch from Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari and Paul Borchardt from Wonderland Amusement Park are just few examples who I would credit for inspiration.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST CHALLENGE IN YOUR WATERPARK CAREER?
Early on, we were challenged with funding for our first endeavor. Now, with our relatively small footprint, we are tested with creatively adding new attractions.
HOW DO YOU KEEP FOCUSED AND MOTIVATED?
I spend a lot of time reading and talking to people in our industry and am motivated by the constant innovation. I love the opportunity to visit parks and learn from others.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS INTERESTED IN WORKING IN THE WATERPARK INDUSTRY?
I think it is important to understand all aspects of the business to be successful. I would recommend exposing yourself to everything from food service to water safety.
WHAT BOOKS OR PUBLICATIONS DO YOU RELY ON MOST FOR INSPIRATION OR MOTIVATION?
I regularly read
Amusement Today and
World Waterpark Magazine. I also love a good business book. One of my favorites is
Walt’s Revolution!: By The Numbers by Harrison “Buzz” Price.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
There is nothing better than a sunny summer weekend with a full park and families enjoying themselves.
WHAT CAREER OR BUSINESS WOULD YOU CONSIDER IF YOU WERE STARTING ALL OVER AGAIN?
I wouldn’t change a thing. I have had a wonderful career caring for and expanding a wonderful family park. I do spend a lot of time studying the financial markets so maybe that would have been an interesting alternative for me.
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED WITH THE WWA?
My wife and I attended a WWA Show years ago in San Antonio where we developed relationships with operators and vendors. We were embraced by all.
WHAT IS SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT YOU THAT FEW KNOW OR WOULD GUESS?
I am an avid skier and enjoy our winter vacations to explore and spend time with my family.