Team Member Hub

Our Facilities Team builds confidence by keeping Thanksgiving Point running beautifully every day.  Maintaining the buildings, and systems so everyone stays safe helps us explore in ways that are encouraging and comforting.  They also work hard to solve problems with skill, creativity and teamwork.  It is clear that they take pride in their work, exemplifying excellence and confidence in all projects, from big to small.  Thank you, Facilities!

Sam Contreras – Facilities Technician – HVAC Specialty
Sam brings great energy and enthusiasm to our team; he strives for excellence and discipline within the workplace and with every project he plays a part in. Outside of work, he enjoys computer gaming and has a strong love for music, movies, and TV shows. As a dedicated sports enthusiast, he enjoys following games, cheering on his favorite teams, and discussing the latest highlights. His wide range of interests helps him connect with others and makes Sam a fun and engaging member of the team.

Mckinnon Manis – Specialist – Electrician
Mckinnon is a proud father who treasures spending quality time with his family and making lasting memories together. He has a passion for creating and listening to music, using it as both a creative outlet and a source of inspiration. When he’s not enjoying music, you’ll often find him outdoors, playing and exploring with his family whenever he gets the chance. His favorite color is green, a fitting reflection of his appreciation for nature and the outdoors. His dedication to family, creativity, and adventure is reflected also within his work here at Thanksgiving Point; Mckinnon is an invaluable and positive member of our facilities team.

John Kiser – Senior Technician over MONC – Boiler Specialist and Mechanics Specialist
John is known for an exceptional work ethic and a wealth of knowledge across a wide range of facilities disciplines, making him a trusted resource for the entire team. He approaches every challenge with dedication, skill, and a willingness to help others succeed. Outside of work, he enjoys crocheting, finding satisfaction in creating thoughtful, handmade projects. John also looks forward to playing Bunco with his wife and a close group of friends, valuing the laughter and friendships those gatherings bring. His appreciation for dragonflies reflects a love of the small, unique details in nature, adding another distinctive touch to John personality and attention to detail.

Mike Cals – Senior Technician over GVC and is our Carpenter Specialist
Mike is a highly skilled carpenter whose craftsmanship and dedication have already made a lasting impact at Thanksgiving Point despite being here less than a year. Month after month, he takes on various construction projects that rely on his expertise, attention to detail, and ability to deliver quality work on time. Outside of work, Mike enjoys spending quality time with his son, making family an important part of his life. He also has a passion for just about every water sport imaginable and loves taking his motorcycle out to enjoy the scenic roads and beautiful landscapes of Utah. With his favorite color being blue and his commitment to excellence both on and off the job, Mike is a valued teammate whose contributions help shape the success of our organization

Jim Fisher – Senior Technician over Curiosity Farms – Machinist/Motorsports Specialty
Jim, our newest team member, brings more than four decades of experience as a highly skilled mechanic and machinist, providing expertise that is an incredible asset to the facilities team at Thanksgiving Point. His depth of knowledge and hands-on experience make him a trusted resource for solving complex mechanical challenges and mentoring those around him. Outside of work, Jim is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys hunting, fishing, and motorsports, sharing many of those passions with his son, Cody. He still enjoys riding his 1985 Honda three-wheeler and Yamaha dirt bike, proving that his enthusiasm for adventure hasn’t slowed down over the years. Whether he’s spending time outdoors or making memories with his children and grandchildren, Jim’s dedication to family, his favorite color green, and his wealth of experience makes him a valued and respected member of our team.

Cody Fisher – Facilities Technician – Mechanics Specialty
Cody is a highly skilled mechanic whose expertise and problem-solving abilities make him an invaluable member of our team. Outside of work, he has a passion for motorsports and enjoys just about any recreational activity with an engine, whether it’s riding snowmobiles, jet skis, motorcycles, or tackling his next adventure. He also has a deep appreciation for the outdoors and spends as much time as he can hunting and exploring the wilderness. When he’s not neck-deep in the woods or working on engines, Cody enjoys spending quality time with his wife and son, making family his top priority. His mechanical knowledge, strong work ethic, and willingness to help others make him a trusted teammate and an important part of our team’s success.

Dallan Evans – Senior Technician over Harvest and the Butterfly Biosphere -HVAC Specialist
Dallan is our HVAC Specialist and the longest-tenured member of the team, overseeing the HVAC systems across Thanksgiving Point’s venues while responding to emergencies of every kind. His years of service have given him an unmatched knowledge of the campus, its buildings, and the systems that keep everything running smoothly, making him an invaluable resource to the entire team. Outside of work, Dallan enjoys spending time outdoors, whether he’s camping, hiking, fishing, photographing nature, or exploring the night sky through astronomy. He’s also known for shearing sheep, llamas, and alpacas throughout the state, adding another unique skill to an already impressive résumé. Fueled by Mountain Dew and Mexican food, Dallan’s expertise, dependability, and one-of-a-kind personality make him an irreplaceable part of the Thanksgiving Point facilities team.

Todd Wilkins – Specialist -Painter
Todd, our Specialist Painter, has been an invaluable member of the team, contributing his expertise to a wide variety of projects across Thanksgiving Point. His exceptional craftsmanship and artistic eye allow him to create painted facades that convincingly replicate the look of different materials, showcasing his extensive knowledge of painting techniques and finishes. Todd consistently delivers high-quality work and takes pride in helping bring each project to life with skill and precision. Outside of work, he enjoys baking, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends. His talent, dedication, and positive attitude make him a valued part of our team. His favorite color is Verdigris: The bright blue-green patina formed on weathered copper.

AJ Bell – Facilities Junior Technician – Specialty Welding
AJ is a talented Junior Technician whose passion for welding is evident in both his work and his commitment to continuing his education through trade school. He has already demonstrated exceptional craftsmanship by building railings, rebuilding trailer components, repairing structural supports, and contributing to a variety of metal fabrication projects. His dedication to mastering his craft is reflected in his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and willingness to take on new challenges. Outside of work, AJ enjoys Mexican food, follows motorsports, and loves spending time exploring Utah’s beautiful outdoors. His enthusiasm, skill, and drive make him a valuable member of the team with a bright future ahead.

Cesar Inzunza – Senior Technician over MAL
Cesar is a hardworking and dependable team member whose wide range of skills has made him a valuable asset to the team. His expertise in framing, taping, and texturing consistently helps deliver high-quality work and keeps projects moving forward efficiently. He takes pride in his craftsmanship and is always willing to step in wherever he’s needed. Outside of work, Cesar enjoys watching and playing sports, shooting firearms, and spending quality time with his family and beloved dog.