IT students have discovered how their skills and knowledge could take them into careers that make the magic behind theme park rides and entertainment.

Cathrin Winsor, project director from Derby-based Katapult Ltd, showcased the complexities of IT hardware and software used at some of the biggest attractions, such as Warner Bros Discovery, Legoland Parks, The Eden Project, Alton Towers, and Drayton Manor Resort.

The company designs themed attractions and experiences for visitors across the world, which includes a fully-themed guest experience in CBeebies Land at Alton Towers and a new Ferrari Experience dining concept.

Cathrin worked with the Advanced Diploma in IT Level 3 group at West Nottinghamshire College to look at how important project management is when creating immersive entertainment concepts, including audio, visual and special effects.

The class watched a video of The Secret Live Of Pets Off The Leash ride, based at Universal Studios in Hollywood, which features 64 animatronics. The learners then worked in groups to concentrate on how a company might project manage the concept and building of such a ride.

At a question and answer session students asked Cathrin more about how IT is embedded into themed rides and attractions, such as in lighting, wiring, grouping control systems, and high-quality audio.

Information Technology Level 3 student Marley Garton said: “The session with Cathrin was great because we are currently working on project management. Getting real world examples from the sector and a company like Katapult means we’re getting lots of information about how they work with such hardware and software.”

Cathrin added: “We’ve done a range of project work with Cartoon Network, Warner Bros, Ferrari, and Eden Project amongst others.

“My advice for today’s students would be to make sure that you find something enjoyable as we spend a lot of time at work. So getting into project management and IT work that is fulfilling will have a measurable impact on your life.”