Michael Tschanz

Michael Tschanz, Director, Technology and Analysis, Disney Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products Director of Technology and Analysis, a department within Design and Engineering at Walt Disney World®, Michael leads a 100+ member multidiscipline team who develops detailed mathematical and physics models for transportation, ride, and animatronic systems. The responsibilities for this team also include the development of optimization algorithms, servo controllers, interactive/immersive experiences, and material process solutions. Michael’s rich and diverse background includes designs of numerous attractions at various Disney theme parks including Test Track® Attraction; Mission: SPACE® Attraction; Toy Story Mania!® Attraction and Expedition Everest® Attraction. Michael also designed all the velocity profiles at our worldwide locations of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™. Prior to joining the Disney team, Michael developed precision guidance algorithms and aerospace sensor simulations for Texas Instruments. He is also a professional musician and a music director at Peace United Methodist Church along with being a freelance accompanist.

Michael earned his BSEE from Ohio Northern University and an MSEE from the University of Texas Arlington. Further studies included a preparatory scholarship for the Cleveland Institute of Music. Michael also studied both classical and jazz piano at the University of North Texas.