Maddy Reedy
4th Year Mechanical Engineering Student minoring in Computer Science and Studio Art at Cal Poly - San Luis Obispo
Interested in animatronic design and fabrication as well as ADA accessibility in themed attractions.
Phone:
+1 (925)-895-1585
Email:
Based in:
San Francisco, CA
A Bit About Me
I’m a fourth-year Mechanical Engineering student at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, concentrating in Mechatronics with minors in Computer Science and Studio Art. My work lives at the intersection of engineering, storytelling, and accessibility, designing animatronics and immersive environments that blend technical precision with emotional impact.
After completing the Disney College Program at Walt Disney World, where I operated high-capacity attractions and studied themed entertainment leadership, I returned to Cal Poly to lead a full-scale animatronic build of DJ R-3X from Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. As Project Lead, I manage a multidisciplinary team through mechanical design, controls integration, fabrication, and testing.
Beyond animatronics, I conduct research with ASTM International studying how high-velocity ride environments and electromagnetic fields may impact individuals with implantable medical devices, bridging ride engineering with safety standards and accessibility advocacy.
I’ve contributed to multiple award-winning Ride Engineering Competition teams, serve as President of Cal Poly Archery, and work as a Theater Technician Student Assistant, gaining hands-on experience in rigging, lighting, sound, and technical production. I’m certified in welding, milling, and lathe operation through the Cal Poly Machine Shop.
At the core of everything I build is one goal: creating safe, inclusive, and meaningful experiences that spark joy.
Education
2022-2026
Mechanical Engineering
Minors: Computer Science and Studio Art
California Polytechnic State Univerity - San Luis Obispo
At Cal Poly, I combine engineering leadership with hands-on fabrication and research. I serve as Project Lead for a full-scale DJ R-3X animatronic build, contribute to ASTM F24 student research on ride safety and implantable medical devices, and compete on award-winning Ride Engineering Competition teams. I am President of Cal Poly Archery and machine shop certified in welding, milling, and lathe operation, with additional experience in theatrical rigging, lighting, and sound systems.
Work Experience
October 2025 - Present
September 2024 - January 2025
August 2021 - May 2022
As an Implantable Medical Devices Research Assistant with ASTM F24 Committee, I conduct research evaluating how high-velocity ride environments and electromagnetic fields (EMF) in themed entertainment settings may impact individuals with implantable medical devices. I analyze baseline EMF exposure from everyday sources such as cell phones, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth to compare against conditions found in amusement park environments. I also categorize user groups, including riders, operators, maintenance staff, and bystanders, to assess varying exposure risks and inform potential safety mitigations. Additionally, I propose qualitative research methods to interview IMD users, gathering real-world insights to better understand safety perceptions and lived experiences.
During the Disney College Program, I completed leadership and heritage training, earning a Mouseter’s in Leadership, and participated in behind-the-scenes tours and networking events with Disney and Imagineering teams. I supported daily park operations by engaging with guests, solving problems, and creating a safe, welcoming environment.
As a Civil Engineering Intern for the City of San Ramon, I converted paper maps into detailed digital versions using GIS, updated construction zones in ArcMap to keep the public informed, and organized documents into an accessible online database to improve workflow efficiency.
