Chef Gerardo Quijada Gonzalez transformed a college internship into a lifelong career at Walt Disney World by moving his family from Mexico to Florida with only four suitcases. After joining the culinary team in 2016, he worked through various positions before becoming the Chef de Cuisine at Be Our Guest Restaurant inside Beast’s Castle. His leadership style emphasizes mentoring staff and encouraging them to share their own cultural traditions and cooking techniques within the kitchen. This approach reflects the lessons he learned from his mother in Mexico, who taught him that food serves as a vital way to connect families and celebrate heritage. Gonzalez credits his wife, children, and fellow cast members for supporting his journey as he helps others find their own potential within the organization. Now he leads a team that creates memorable dining experiences while fostering an environment where every employee feels valued and inspired to contribute. His story demonstrates that dedication and hard work can turn a childhood dream into a reality that benefits many families visiting the resort.
Key Points:
- Chef Gerardo Quijada Gonzalez began his Disney journey at EPCOT through the International College Program at the Mexico Pavilion.
- He and his family moved from Mexico to Central Florida with only four suitcases after years of applying for jobs.
- Gonzalez officially joined Disney Culinary in 2016 as a sous chef and worked across multiple dining locations.
- He is now the Chef de Cuisine at Be Our Guest Restaurant located inside Beast’s Castle in Fantasyland.
- Gonzalez encourages his kitchen team to contribute their own ideas, techniques, and cultural traditions to the cooking process.
- His mother taught him that food is a way to show love and celebrate culture through family meals.
- He credits his wife, children, and fellow cast members for helping him achieve his career goals.