226. Bob Holland on Constructing EPCOT Center, the Grand Floridian, and Disney Cruise Line

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An unappreciated reason for the success of Disney’s theme parks and resorts is the brilliant architecture. It creates that feeling of reassurance and immersion that keeps us coming back every year. Imagineer Bob Holland worked closely on a wide range of projects as an architect, project manager, and executive during a period of rapid growth. He joins me on this episode of the Tomorrow Society Podcast to talk about his 26-year career at Disney and beyond.

Bob originally joined WED Enterprises in July 1979 when EPCOT Center was ramping up at Disney. He worked as a Field Architect for that massive construction project with a focus on Future World. Bob and I talk about some of the challenges of EPCOT Center including ride systems for Spaceship Earth and Journey Into Imagination. He also describes the experience working on World Showcase projects like the Morocco pavilion after the park opened.

After working on EPCOT Center, Bob joined Walt Disney World Design & Engineering, which ultimately became the Disney Development Corporation. He talks about that new entity and what it was like to work on the Grand Floridian and other resorts. Next up was Disney Cruise Line, where Bob worked closely first on the Disney Magic. We chat about that different experience for Bob as Disney Cruise Line began. Bob also talks about becoming a teacher after retiring from Disney. I really enjoyed talking with Bob about this career and so many cool Disney projects.