FULLERTON, Calif. (July 27, 2011) - Fullerton College and the Disneyland Resort have joined together to create a unique machinist training program that prepares adults for successful careers as machinists. A total of six students were selected earlier this year for the program, four of whom are Disneyland Resort cast members and two who were recommended by the machinist union.

The four-year program, which is supported by the International Association of Machinists District Lodge 947, consists of full-credit courses on the campus in subjects ranging from blueprint reading to automotive fundamentals. The units attained through taking those courses can be applied toward an associate’s degree. Program participants not only receive a classroom education, but also paid hands-on training three days a week in various departments of the Disneyland Resort including overhaul and manufacturing facilities, attraction maintenance and transportation services.

“This collaboration helps to develop the talents and potential of our cast members,” said Rich Langhorst, vice president of facilities and operations services at the Disneyland Resort. “The hands-on learning environment supported by the Disneyland Resort and Fullerton College is a great way to further develop the skills of the craft workers in our local-communities."

Upon completion of the program, all participants are eligible to be hired into permanent positions available at the Disneyland Resort. In addition, each candidate who successfully completes the program is awarded the Journeyman card, which certifies that the candidate performs technical work at an advanced level and is trained to use power tools.

“One of the primary missions of the California community college system is to advance the state’s economic growth and global competitiveness through education, training, and services that contribute to continuous work force improvement,” said Dr. Rajen Vurdien, Fullerton College president. “Our partnership with Disney allows us to provide real world experience and training that will benefit Orange County.”

“Community colleges are uniquely designed to respond to the needs of our local work force through practical-based coursework,” said Dan O’Brien, Fullerton College machining instructor. “The students are dedicated to improving their skills and gaining real-world experience, which is a huge advantage in this competitive job market.”

About Fullerton College
Fullerton College offers its students a comprehensive academic experience, in a real college setting. Founded in 1913, Fullerton College is the oldest community college in continuous operation in California. The college enrolls in excess of 19,000 students. There are 315 full-time faculty and approximately 480 adjunct faculty, who are supported by 285 classified employees and 43 managers. Dr. Rajen Vurdien is the president. As one of five institutions of higher learning in the city of Fullerton, the college is an integral part of a complex higher education system. Fullerton College is committed to quality education in all areas of study, ranging from transfer-level courses to career certificate programs. These programs, coupled with our full complement of student support services and excellent faculty, virtually ensure student success. Fullerton College – Elevating Excellence. For detailed information about Fullerton College, please visit www.fullcoll.edu.

About Disneyland Resort
Located on approximately 500 acres in Anaheim, Calif., the Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and Disney California Adventure park – plus the Downtown Disney District composed of unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort’s three hotels are the 948-room Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the 969-room Disneyland Hotel and the 481-room Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel. With 21,000 Cast Members, the Disneyland Resort is Orange County’s largest employer and generates $4.7 billion for the Southern California economy. The Resort has welcomed more than 600 million guests since opening on July 17, 1955. For detailed information about the Disneyland Resort, please visit www.disneyland.com.