The EPCOT Seminar, Conference and Training Satellite
As Disney executives meandered through the journey of bringing Walt’s vision of EPCOT Center to life, they stumbled through many different designs (check out Master Plan 5). Many iterations of the concept included an EPCOT Theme Center, which eventually became what we know today as Future World. The World Showcase concept evolved from ideas rooted in a World’s Fair-style exhibition, while the International Village was envisioned as a living and communal space for international cast members.
In 1979, Disney created a World Showcase prospectus for potential country sponsors for the different countries. This 19-page document shared information about the Florida property, ideas and concept artwork for EPCOT Center, and expectations of the potential host country.
EPCOT Center Satellite Centers
Satellite center was the term Disney created to describe the different areas of EPCOT Center. The centers’ purpose was to conduct research, testing, and demonstration of experimental and prototype products and systems.
The four satellite centers:
- Future World Satellites
- Seminar, Conference, and Training Satellites
- World Showcase Satellites
- International Village Satellite
What is the Seminar, Conference, and Training Satellites Center?
The EPCOT Theme Center will also be the starting point for visits to the various satellites in EPCOT. Each satellite center will carry out research, testing, and the introduction and demonstration of experimental and prototype products and systems, for review and discussion by leading professionals and students from around the world.
For example, an EPCOT satellite could be a prototype facility demonstrating a new method to recycle waste materials. Another facility would showcase the collection and storing of solar energy and a third invites you into a real classroom where new learning systems are being tested for potential use in schools. These satellites—and specifically the EPCOT Seminar, Conference and Training Satellite concept illustrated at the right—will create an ongoing “meeting place” for creative people of science, industry, government and the arts. Leading theorists and practitioners will gather here for days or weeks or months for in-depth discussions of issues altercating the entire world.
The Disney skill in communications will be called upon to expose the results of these demonstrations and discussions. For only communication to the broadest public and professional audiences can EPCOT truly achieve its objectives.