Albany Technical College (ATC) Culinary Arts student Madison Sexton, a 2025 candidate for graduation, has been selected for a remarkable opportunity to intern at Walt Disney World-EPCOT. Madison began her internship on August 1, 2024, after a successful interview for the prestigious Walt Disney Culinary Arts Program, and has since extended her internship through the fall of 2025.

Madison’s journey to Disney began when she competed at the State SkillsUSA conference in Atlanta, Georgia, earlier this year. Her outstanding performance caught the eye of a Disney World recruiter, leading to the offer of an internship with one of the most recognizable culinary brands in the world. Throughout this internship, Madison has the unique opportunity to work alongside world-renowned chefs, gaining invaluable culinary arts experience far exceeding typical hospitality roles.

“We are incredibly proud of Madison’s accomplishments,” said ATC Culinary Arts Instructor Desmond Searcy. “Her dedication, passion, and skill have led her to this exceptional opportunity, and we are excited to see her thrive in such a prestigious program.”

Unlike traditional internships, Madison works directly within the Disney Culinary Arts Program, an experience that involves more than just food preparation at concession stands. Under the mentorship of some of the industry’s top chefs, she is developing her culinary skills and expanding her professional network.

“I am honored and excited to be part of the Disney Culinary Program. Working with such talented chefs has been an eye-opening experience, and I look forward to continuing to grow and learn. This opportunity wouldn’t have been possible without the support and training from my instructors at Albany Tech.”

Madison’s goal is to continue her journey with Disney, aspiring to secure a permanent role within the Disney Culinary Arts Program after her internship concludes. Her success exemplifies the caliber of students emerging from Albany Technical College’s Culinary Arts Program, led by dedicated instructors like Desmond Searcy and Kathy Stubbs.

For more information about Albany Technical College’s Culinary Arts Program and the opportunities it offers, please visit albanytech.edu.