“I am currently assistant director of Engineering and Safety for Universal Creative…. I oversee the design, fabrication, installation and testing of new ride systems. I have worked on quite a few rides, including Bluto’s Barges at Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Jurassic Park and Journey to Madagascar in Singapore, Transformers at Universal Studios Florida, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and the Flight of the Hippogriff at Universal Studios Hollywood, Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan and Universal Studios Hollywood. I am currently working on finishing up rides at Universal Epic Universe, our newest park in Orlando.”

Where Are They Now? – A Q&A with Kevin Kellenberger

Kevin Kellenberger began his career at NASA and later started with Red Cross as a disaster volunteer with the Bay Area Chapter (ARCBA) in San Francisco. He was next hired to be the manager of disaster response for San Francisco, then promoted to director of disaster services for ARCBA. After that he moved to Red Cross National Headquarters (NHQ) as the director of Partner Services.

Kevin now builds rollercoasters!

What was your favorite job or project that you worked on at Red Cross, and why?

Responding to the influx of evacuees from Hurricane Katrina was a real test for me. Fortunately, I had some very experienced volunteers and staff to help make it happen.  While I had done some volunteer work prior to the Red Cross, this was my first opportunity to work with and manage a volunteer workforce. It was so rewarding being able to help them serve their community.

Moving to NHQ gave me insight into how things work at a national level. Under the leadership of Juliet Choi we were able to build on our partnering foundation and truly expand our ability to serve those most in need.

What is one of your most memorable Red Cross experiences, and what made it memorable?

I had so many good experiences that it is difficult to single out one, so I’ll list a few. Working with people, both paid staff and volunteer, that were so dedicated and passionate about helping people in need. Going on my first national assignment and working with hundreds of people coming from across the country to give their time and expertise. The truly collaborative teamwork that we had with our local governments and community partners. All of that, and I had a chance to make a difference in people’s lives.

Where do you work now, and what do you do?

I am currently assistant director of Engineering and Safety for Universal Creative.  Universal Creative is the organization that designs and builds new parks, rides, shows and dining/retail experiences for Universal Studios parks around the world.

My focus is on ride engineering, so I oversee the design, fabrication, installation and testing of new ride systems. I have worked on quite a few rides, including:  Bluto’s Barges at Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Jurassic Park and Journey to Madagascar in Singapore, Transformers at Universal Studios Florida, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and the Flight of the Hippogriff at Universal Studios Hollywood, Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan and Universal Studios Hollywood.

I am currently working on finishing up rides at Universal Epic Universe, our newest park in Orlando.

What do you do for fun now?

I love road trips, exploring in the mountains and generally being out in nature. I am working hard to transition to the next phase of my life where I can do more of what I like, and hopefully spend more time volunteering again.

What makes you laugh?

Dogs, babies people in general. People aren’t always trying to be funny, but I love to sit back and watch people. We really are an odd species sometimes. Finding the absurdity and humor in our daily lives and struggles is one of my coping mechanisms.

What are you looking forward to next?

Working less! I am planning on my current project being my last. I would love work only part time so that I can get outside and do more exploring.  

While I am single, I have some wonderful close friends, a brother and sisters, and tons of nieces and nephews. Just having more time to be present with them would be so nice.

Why did you join the American Red Cross Alumni network, and what do you enjoy most about your ARCAN membership?

During my time with the Red Cross I met so many smart, dedicated and inspiring people. Who would want to separate from that? Learning what others are doing, seeing how they stay engaged, and maybe even offering advice or mentoring are all things that can be facilitated by ARCAN.

Where do you live?

Folsom, California. After four years being a nomad living in Los Angeles, Utah, Germany and Orlando, I decided to settle down in Folsom last year so that I can be close to everything that I love about northern California.