Frank Weigand

Frank Weigand is a master mechanical engineer who has managed the concept development, design and construction of rides, show action equipment and special effects for clients in the entertainment industry including Universal Studios, Walt Disney Imagineering and Dubai Parks and Resorts for over thirty years. He stands out as a great collaborator, who has participated in a large number of successful projects. At WDI, Frank managed the engineers and designers who successfully applied advanced technology to attractions such as Star Tours, Splash Mountain, Indiana Jones Adventure, Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Theater, Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin, Mission: SPACE and others; for Universal he was instrumental in the ride systems and/or animation for Men in Black, Revenge of the Mummy, Star Wars – Galaxy’s Edge, Madagascar – A Crate Adventure, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Jurassic Park.

Frank received a BSME from Notre Dame and a MSME from Purdue, with highest honors. He worked at Garrett AiResearch (now Honeywell) for 11 years developing ground transportation vehicles and secondary power systems for air vehicles. He managed a group of 20 engineers and was awarded five patents. He then spent eight years as Manager of Ride Mechanical Engineering at Walt Disney Imagineering. At WDI, Frank built a new department of 52 engineers. In 1996, Frank founded the consulting firm that has become TWT, a specialty engineering firm, and has been awarded five more patents.

In addition to his theme park work, Weigand has also brought his expertise to the museum and mixed-use industries, including the Science Storms interactive exhibit (Chicago Museum of Science and Industry), Shuttle Launch Experience (Kennedy Space Center), Endeavour Experience (California Science Center), Las Vegas High Roller Observation Wheel, and others.

Throughout his career, Frank has pioneered an enhanced focus on safety in theme park rides and attractions. Frank's judgement is always flawless; he ensures that the final product is safe for both the operator and for those guests riding on his creations.

Frank is a strong supporter of the industry. As founder of TWT, a group of very talented engineers offering their services to the theme park and museum industries, small and larger companies rely on Frank and his team to provide engineering rigor to their new projects.

Frank is the best engineer to have in the room when developing new ride and experience ideas. He collaborates effortlessly, brings fresh ideas to creative development and supports daring new concept design efforts. He works exceptionally well with creatives, designers, managers and other project team members. An engineer’s engineer, Frank Weigand is the epitome of a TEA Master.