LDI 2016

Joe Champelli is director of mechanical design for Entertainment Project Services LLC (EPS), where he uses his 25 years of experience in machinery design, operations, and project management to provide clients with comprehensive mechanical designs & systems integration. In this position, Champelli enjoys tackling new and unique challenges while coordinating efforts on projects both large and small. EPS specializes in large-scale permanent installations for theme parks and hotel/casinos. Prior to joining EPS, Joe spent 5 years as lead mechanical designer and general manager for ZFX Flying Inc, following 11 years as lead mechanical designer and chief operations officer for Fisher Technical Services Inc. (FTSI). His favorite projects from the far past include the flight of Tinkerbell at Disneyland & the Cirque show “O” at the Bellagio hotel. In 2005 Joe joined ESTA and has provided input on a number of safety standards. Most recently, ANSI E1.43, which covers performer flying, was published in February 2016. Champelli is ETCP certified in Theatre and Arena rigging, he holds an M.F.A. in technical production from Penn State University and a B.S. in design from Illinois State University. In his free time Champelli enjoys playing board games and throwing hatchets with his wife of 20 years and their three children.