Every magical memory at Walt Disney World Resort starts with a Cast Member.
When Dacia began caring for backstage offices as part of the overnight custodial team at Walt Disney World in the early 2000s, she wasn’t imagining a future in leadership. She was focused on learning her role, working hard and building a better future one day at a time.
Twenty-three years later, she is an Area Manager with Holidays Services, helping lead teams that collaborate with Walt Disney Imagineering to bring seasonal magic to life across the resort. Her journey was shaped by her willingness to keep learning, leaders who saw potential she hadn’t yet recognized in herself, and a variety of development opportunities that helped her turn a job into a career.
Over the years, she embraced new opportunities and expanded her expertise across multiple areas of the business. Her career journey included roles such as Craft Support Foreman, Decorator, and Planned Work Specialist, each providing valuable insights and a broader perspective of the operation. Every role helped build the skills and experience that prepared her for the next stage of her career.
It Starts with a Name Tag
Across Walt Disney World Resort, more than 80,000 Cast Members create happiness for millions of guests.
But before Cast Members begin welcoming guests and creating magical experiences, they take part in Traditions, Disney’s onboarding experience. Through an introduction to the company’s history, culture, values and commitment to exceptional guest service, Traditions helps build a strong foundation for future growth and success.
For Dacia, that introduction was only the beginning of a commitment to learning, which became one of the most important parts of her Disney story.
“I never imagined I would get this far,” Dacia said. “Every opportunity helped me learn something new.”
Saying Yes to New Opportunities
Dacia’s path to Holiday Services began with what she believed would be a temporary opportunity. Curious about a different area of business and motivated by a desire to keep learning, she decided to take a chance on something new.
“I’ve always liked challenges,” she said. “That’s where the magic happens.”
What began as a temporary assignment ultimately became a new career path. Along the way, mentors and leaders encouraged her to see new possibilities.
“Sometimes other people see something in you before you see it yourself,” she reflected.
Today, Dacia is paying that lesson forward, and one of the most rewarding parts of her role has become helping other Cast Members see that same potential in themselves. She helps them build new skills, pursue new opportunities and recognize their own career possibilities.
“There’s a lot of talent here,” Dacia said. “I love seeing people grow.”
Learning Every Step of the Way
Like Dacia, approximately three out of five Walt Disney World leaders began their careers in hourly roles. It’s their commitment to growth that can make all the difference. From operational training and safety programs to Disney University for courses and leadership development opportunities, she has continuously expanded her knowledge, preparing herself for the next step along her career journey.
What began as an overnight custodial role became a 23-year journey filled with new experiences, new opportunities and a passion for helping others succeed.
The Magic Starts with Cast Members
When asked what advice she would give someone considering a new opportunity, Dacia’s answer is simple: “Be the best you can be wherever you are today.”
As Walt Disney World continues to grow, one thing remains unchanged: the magic will always begin with the talented Cast Members who bring it to life every day.