Dana Donaldson
About Dana Donaldson
Dana Donaldson is a Systems Administrator at Pixar Animation Studios since 2019, where he has contributed significantly to remote work setups during the COVID-19 pandemic. He previously held various roles at Apple and Box, and he holds a BS in Video-Film and Art History from the University of Miami.
Work at Pixar Animation Studios
Dana Donaldson has served as a Systems Administrator at Pixar Animation Studios since 2019. In this role, he has been instrumental in supporting the technical infrastructure of the studio. He played a significant part in relocating over 2000 employees to remote work setups during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring project continuity. Additionally, he managed a project to transition from legacy storage technology, which minimized disruption to Pixar's operations. Donaldson also co-created Alpha and Beta groups to test new versions of MacOS and updated software, contributing to the studio's technological advancements.
Previous Experience at Apple
Prior to his tenure at Pixar, Dana Donaldson worked at Apple in various roles. He served as a Genius from 2010 to 2014, where he provided technical support and customer service. He also worked as an In-Store Guest Trainer for four months in 2014, focusing on training staff and enhancing customer experience. During his time at Apple, he gained valuable experience in managing Apple devices, which he continues to leverage as a subject matter expert in Apple VPP at Pixar.
Experience at Box
Dana Donaldson held multiple positions at Box from 2014 to 2019. He began as an IT Helpdesk Analyst 2, providing technical support and troubleshooting assistance. He then advanced to the role of IT Systems Engineer, where he contributed to the management and optimization of IT systems. His experience at Box equipped him with the skills necessary for his current role at Pixar, particularly in systems administration and technical project management.
Education and Expertise
Dana Donaldson earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Miami, where he studied Video-Film and Art History with a double major from 2005 to 2009. This educational background has provided him with a unique perspective that complements his technical expertise. His knowledge in both technology and the arts supports his contributions to the production of Pixar films, including Onward, Soul, and Luca, as well as various SparkShorts available on Disney+.
Contributions to Film Production
At Pixar Animation Studios, Dana Donaldson has supported the production of several notable films, including Onward, Soul, and Luca. His role as a Systems Administrator has allowed him to facilitate the technical aspects of film production, ensuring that the necessary systems are in place for creative teams. His involvement in managing Apple devices in film feature galleries further highlights his contributions to the studio's operational efficiency.