Disney Partners with FC Machine Technology

By EUGENE W. FIELDS, / THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

Jacobo Daguer is getting more than hands-on experience as a machinist trainee at Disneyland, he is getting in-class instruction as part of a pilot training program.

The program is a partnership between Disney and Fullerton College.

Daguer, 36, and three other Disneyland Resort employees (cast members) are entered into a four-year machinist training program. The program consists of two full-credit courses per semester. The classes can also be applied toward obtaining an associate's degree from the community college.

Daguer has worked for Disney for eight years. He broke in as a custodian, but got a transfer to work on attractions about eight months ago. His current duties include working on the submarines at the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage and helping with the refurbishments at the Matterhorn Bobsleds.

"I wanted to get into the company and work my way from there," That's what I like, working on mechanical stuff, like cars and taking things apart."

Applicants to the machinist program had to turn in a written application and pass two interviews and a test.

"They expect you to have a general knowledge," Daguer said. "The program helps refine and educate you on missing pieces you may have."

Once in the program, Daugher said his work schedule has been trimmed to 34 hours a week to accommodate five hours of classes. During the summer, when class was out, he worked a 40-hour week.

Disney spokeswoman Betsy Sanchez said Disney pays the tuition for the members of the program.

"I'm taking Introduction to Machine Tools and Machining," Daguer said. "There's a lot of measuring that's required."

Daguer said the program involves a great deal of upper division mathematics.

"That is a hard part for the students in the class," he said. "I enjoy math, which is rare, and I'm having no trouble."

When he completes the program, Daugher plans on staying at Disney as a full-fledged machinist.

"Machinists do preventaive maintenance or give engineers suggestions on how to give make attractions safer," Daugher said. "It's not just this part's broken, so let's put in a new one."