Cast Member Reflects on 44 Years with The Walt Disney Company
Rob Morton is a Disney Institute Engagement Manager, set to retire next month. A Cast Member for over four decades, he reflects on 44 years with The Walt Disney Company.
44 Years with The Walt Disney Company
Disney Parks Blog shares that Rob began working for Disney in 1979 at Magic Kingdom Park attractions. He started at the Pirates of the Caribbean and then moved to the Jungle Cruise.
For the past 27 years, he’s been part of the Disney Institute family. His position has helped individuals and organizations learn about Disney’s approach to Guest experience.
Recently, Morton participated in an interview where he shared highlights from his career. In addition to some fun facts, he offers advice he learned along the way, in hopes of helping fellow Cast Members.
Cast Member Reflection
He listed four lessons he’s learned during the course of his career. Included are, number one, safety first!
Number two, cultural awareness matters. Morton encourages others to, “Never stop learning or being curious about the world and those around you.”
For number three, he talks about the importance of caring about people. Lastly, in number four, he advises Cast Members to always be open about learning new things.
He adds, “If you really want your dream job, you need to treat every job you have like it is your dream job. In my early years, I had a leader tell me, ‘Whatever you’re asked to do, be the best there ever was’.”
Rob shares that when he first started working for Disney, he got the inside scoop on what was important to Walt. Some of the leaders he worked with had worked directly with Walt Disney!
Although he has a vast array of treasured memories over his 44-year career, there is a standout moment. When receiving a special award for 25 years of service, his toddler’s presence made all the difference!
Another favorite memory was representing the Disney Institute in Singapore. He and his family lived there for four years.
Upon reminiscing, he shares, “We talk about Walt almost like he’s still in the room. I can honestly say that what was important to Walt is still important to our organization and company a century later.”
He adds, “That really sets us apart… what we do every day is magic.” I think we can all agree on that!
What a heartwarming story, as a Cast Member reflects on his 44 incredible years with The Walt Disney Company!