Lauren Thompson is taking her love of engineering and design to Disneyland after she walks the stage at graduation this month.
May 1, 2025
By Chloe Arrington
For Lauren Thompson, a fifth-year honors student at the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Tech has provided the perfect place to explore her passion for mechanical engineering and design. As Thompson prepares for her next chapter, she is taking a moment to look back—not just at the classes and projects but also the friendships, challenges, and defining experiences that shaped her time at the Institute.
Thompson's interest in Georgia Tech started with a passion for STEM and an innate love for design. "I've always been interested in STEM, and I was drawn to mechanical engineering because of its versatility. Georgia Tech stood out for its vibrant research community and numerous student makerspaces. There's always something new, creative, and exciting happening here, and I wanted to be part of that," she said.
From courses like Machine Design, where she put concepts from previous classes into practice, to being a prototyping instructor in the Flowers Invention Studio, where she built an electric guitar from scratch after receiving a studio Maker Grant, Thompson has thrived on strengthening her hands-on engineering skills, creativity, and leadership abilities.
"I've always been interested in pursuing a design-oriented role. I'm eager to gain as much technical experience as possible early in my career to build a solid foundation and eventually transition into a design-focused position," said Thompson.
One of the most impactful aspects of Thompson's journey at Georgia Tech was her involvement in the Theme Park Engineering and Design Club. The club provides opportunities for members to attend key networking conferences and industry events. This club led to her eventually joining Advancing Standards Transforming Markets (ASTM) International and their internal group, Committee F24 on Amusement Rides and Devices.
ASTM International is an engineering and operational standards organization that develops and publishes standards for various industries. F24 is the committee specifically for amusement rides and devices.
During her undergraduate studies, Thompson worked for six months in Orlando, Florida, as an intern on the Walt Disney World Safety Engineering team. "I learned so much, truly enjoyed my experience, and it helped solidify my interest in the themed entertainment industry," she said.
Thompson also received the inaugural ASTM International F24 Experiential Scholarship Award funded by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions Foundation in recognition of her undergraduate accomplishments, involvement in the ASTM F24 student group, and commitment to the themed entertainment industry.
After she has walked the stage this month, Thompson will take off for the happiest place on earth, where she has been offered a role as a Disneyland manufacturing intern.
"I'm excited to once again contribute my skills to the Walt Disney Company and to see how everything I've learned at Georgia Tech has prepared me for this role," said Thompson. "I'm truly excited about the opportunity to continue developing the skills I've learned and turn them into a meaningful career.”
Thompson also looks forward to having more free time to explore new places and develop new hobbies. "I am moving to a new part of the country, so I look forward to branching out and exploring a new area," she said.
Though she is moving on to this next chapter with excitement and joy, Thompson won't forget the everyday moments that have defined her time at Georgia Tech. While the projects and achievements stand out, it's the community—the spontaneous adventures, shared struggles, and common experiences—that she knows she will miss.
"I think what I'll miss most is the variety each day brings; something fun or unexpected is always happening. Even when class schedules stay the same, no two days ever feel alike," said Thompson.
When reflecting on her own experiences and what words of encouragement she can leave for future students, Thompson emphasized the need to challenge yourself but ground yourself in your community.
"Classes are essential, of course, but they're just one piece of the puzzle. Hands-on experience outside of class is crucial, and Georgia Tech offers many opportunities to gain that. These all help fill in the technical gaps that classes can't always cover. It's also vital to prioritize social relationships. A strong support system becomes invaluable, especially at Georgia Tech, where everyone is so talented. You never know; one of your peers could become your coworker, boss, or a key connection. Be sure to meet people and maintain a strong network of Yellow Jackets!"
Thompson will relocate to California for the manufacturing internship and will spend six months immersed in the behind-the-scenes magic of Disneyland.