Based at Ryerson University in Toronto, Dr Kathryn Woodcock is a passionate and outspoken advocate for inclusivity in the theme park and attractions industry.
“Being a deaf person herself, she is very familiar with the challenges facing park guests with disabilities,” says one of Blooloop 50 nominators. “However, there is much more to her insight and intuition when it comes to human factors on rides.”
Addressing the subject of risk at amusement parks at the TEA’s SATE conference in 2016, she made the following observation. “If you think people with disabilities are the only people with impulse control issues, I would like to introduce you to another population I like to call 14-year-olds!”
An IAAPA Certified Attractions Executive and a fellow of the Association of Canadian Ergonomists, Dr Woodcock has presented many papers relevant to human factors, error investigation, safety inspection, amusement attractions and accessibility. The Ryerson Invitational Thrill Design Competition she hosts each November during IAAPA Expo in Orlando has also inspired many young people to seek their dream job in the industry.